A Strategic Addition for the Mariners
The College of Coastal Georgia has named Cortney Sawyer as the newest assistant coach for its women's basketball team, a move intended to bolster the program's competitiveness in the Sun Conference. Athletic director Jamie Smith said the hire reflects a commitment to elevating the Mariners' on‑court standards.
Sawyer arrives with fourteen years of coaching experience, including a recent stint at Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School where he guided the team to a 40‑23 record and captured the 2024‑2025 state championship. His tenure was marked by a focus on player development and the cultivation of a winning culture.
A Proven Track Record
Beyond high school, Sawyer has coached at Lecanto High School, Trinity Catholic High School and St. John Lutheran School, and he has led AAU programs such as Southeast United 17U and Tampa Thunder 17U. He has mentored more than a dozen athletes who have gone on to compete at the Division I, II and III levels, and he was honored with a MESPY Award in 2022 for his dedication to coaching.
Head coach Katie Novak‑Lenoir praised Sawyer’s expertise in player development, recruiting and building a competitive mindset. "Cortney brings a depth of knowledge that aligns perfectly with our ambitions," Novak‑Lenoir said in a statement released to the press.
Philosophy and Vision
Sawyer emphasized that relationship‑building is at the core of his coaching philosophy. "I’m excited to join a program that values growth and community," he said, noting his hobbies of music, photography and family time as sources of personal balance.
The Mariners hope Sawyer’s blend of championship experience and player‑focused approach will translate into stronger performances in the upcoming season, as the team looks to make a deeper run in the Sun Conference tournament.