A New Era for Marblehead Girls Basketball
Marblehead High School announced this week that Phill Witt will take the helm of the varsity girls basketball program for the 2026‑27 season, bringing a blend of local experience and multi‑sport expertise to the role.
Witt, a Marblehead native and graduate of Swampscott High School, returns to the town after years of service as a middle school athletic coordinator, track coach and teacher at Marblehead Veterans Middle School.
In addition to his new coaching duties, he continues to lead the girls junior varsity soccer team and oversees middle school athletics, ensuring a consistent developmental pathway for young athletes.
His coaching résumé includes managing baseball operations for the Wachusett Dirt Dawgs and directing sports programs at the Ipswich Family YMCA, experiences that have sharpened his ability to mentor student‑athletes across a range of ages and sports.
Witt holds a bachelor of science in sports and fitness administration from the University of Miami, a credential that reflects his academic foundation alongside his practical coaching career.
Moran’s Return to Swampscott
Paul Moran, who was praised for his passion for the game and his skill at motivating student‑athletes, is stepping away from the girls varsity position to resume his role as head coach of the Swampscott High School boys basketball team.
The move follows the conclusion of a season that ended with a Division 2 preliminary round loss to Notre Dame Academy in February, a result that underscored both the challenges and the progress made by the squad.
Moran’s son, Matt, will join the coaching staff as the leader of the boys freshman team, adding a family connection to the program’s future.
Jason Knowles, who previously held the Swampscott boys coaching position, stepped down in March, paving the way for Moran’s return and prompting the school board to act swiftly on the girls vacancy.
Community Outlook
Local parents and community members have voiced optimism that Witt’s deep roots in Marblehead athletics and his multi‑sport background will revitalize the girls program and foster continued growth.
With the new coaching staff in place, the district looks forward to a competitive and engaging season that builds on the foundation laid by recent experiences and the broader vision for student‑athlete development.