In an unexpected turn of events, the 2023-24 high school basketball season witnessed Keith Derosby, the long-standing head coach for the Messalonskee girls’ basketball team, making a transition to a new team. Derosby has been a prominent figure in the central Maine basketball scene for more than a decade but found himself presented with an unforeseen opportunity that would bring him closer to home and his community.
Residing in Monmouth, Derosby felt that the timing was opportune to assume a new coaching role at Monmouth Academy, a location that is much more convenient for him. The decision was predominantly influenced by the desire to be more involved in the community and the upbringing of his own children. With his children maturing and taking an active part in sports, the chance to be present for their activities and engage with the local community was an opportunity he could not pass up.
With Derosby’s transition to Monmouth, the Messalonskee Eagles have turned to Tatum Welch, a former player for Nokomis and an assistant coach for the Winslow girls’ team, to assume leadership.
Derosby’s tenure at Messalonskee has been marked by significant success, including an impressive record of 126 wins. His leadership propelled the team to an undefeated 22-0 season in 2016-17, resulting in the program’s second state title. Beyond his coaching responsibilities, Derosby has also been an integral part of the Messalonskee community, serving as an assistant for the boys’ basketball team and working as a guidance counselor at the school.
The move to Monmouth will see Derosby replacing Molly Menice as the head coach. He will be taking on the responsibility of leading a program that has had a successful decade and boasts a strong fan base. Derosby expressed his excitement about joining the Monmouth community, especially given that his daughter is involved in the local youth basketball program.
Replacing Derosby at Messalonskee is Tatum Welch, who brings her experience as a player and assistant coach to her new role. She expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity and is looking forward to working with the talented group of athletes at Messalonskee.
Welch, who has a background in pharmaceutical sales, has been coaching her own daughters in the AAU circuit and is eager to contribute to the winning tradition at Messalonskee. Her long-term commitment to the program and her aspirations of coaching her daughters as they progress through high school are testament to her dedication to the team and the community.
The upcoming season will witness new leadership at both Messalonskee and Monmouth, as Derosby and Welch anticipate the challenges and opportunities that come with their coaching roles. The community’s support for both coaches’ endeavours is a clear indication of the positive impact they have had in their respective areas.
The transition of leadership in high school sports often heralds a sense of change and renewal. As new coaches step into their roles, they bring with them a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective, ensuring that the legacy of success continues for both the players and the community.