The upcoming girls basketball season in Section V will see two of its most storied programs, Aquinas and Fairport, each ushering in a new era of leadership. Both teams finished as the top seeds in the Class AAA bracket last winter, setting the stage for a fresh competitive chapter.
New Leadership for Traditional Powerhouses
Aquinas has appointed Tim Jackson, a 24‑year veteran of the New York State Police and former coach of Clyde‑Savannah’s boys program and East High’s girls team, as its new head coach. Jackson’s career includes three Section V titles and a role in the recovery efforts after the September 11 attacks.
Anthony Bianchi, Aquinas’ athletic director, voiced enthusiasm about Jackson’s appointment, citing his blend of law‑enforcement discipline and basketball acumen as a perfect fit for the program’s ambitions.
Fairport, meanwhile, named D'Angelo Moraza as its new bench boss, succeeding Tom Vasey, who guided the Red Raiders to two section championships and three final‑game appearances. Moraza, an Eastridge alumnus, spent the past three seasons on Fairport’s boys basketball staff before stepping into the girls program.
The transitions reflect a broader shift for both schools, as they look to build on recent successes while integrating new coaching philosophies. Fans can expect a blend of seasoned strategy and fresh perspectives as the teams prepare for the upcoming schedule.