Newark is pleased to announce the appointment of Jack Purtell as the new head coach for the girls’ basketball team. Purtell, who previously led Reynoldsburg to the 2022 girls’ basketball state title, is enthusiastic about assuming this new role and assisting Newark in returning to an elite level of play.
After witnessing a decade of Newark’s girls’ basketball team dominance, Purtell has admired the team’s dedication and work ethic. He stated, “You have to put the time and work in, and you have to have kids who are willing to buy in. I always felt the Newark kids were willing to do that, which was an attraction for me to come here.”
Purtell will be taking over from J.R. Shumate, who recently resigned to accept an assistant position at a Division I college. Shumate’s return to the program was brief, and Purtell is eager to step in and build on the success that Shumate brought to the program.
With 21 seasons of experience coaching the Reynoldsburg team, Purtell led the Raiders to the Division I state championship in 2022. He is now looking forward to bringing his expertise to the Newark program and helping the team thrive. Newark reached the state finals in 2021 and has a successful track record, and Purtell is eager to be a part of the journey.
Newark’s roster includes standout players such as Calli Geller, Megan Herriott, Addi Hall, and Emma Quackenbush. With the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s transition to a 64-team Division I, Purtell sees this as an exciting opportunity for the future of basketball in Ohio.
Purtell is scheduled to meet with the returning players and staff, including Jack Eifert, who will be staying on the coaching staff as an assistant. The Wildcats are eagerly anticipating the new leadership and guidance that Purtell will bring to the program.