Derrick Webb, Staff Writer
CHILLICOTHE — A milestone was hit Saturday night for Unioto coach Matt Hoops, and it’s came exactly five years after his last career benchmark.
Hoops’ Shermans beat Southeastern by a 50-34 final, signaling the heralded head coach’s 200th career win.
On Jan. 3, 2015, Hoops earned his 100th win against Westfall, who he started his career with.
His career record now stands at 200-130 — 187-102 at Unioto and 13-28 at Westfall.
“All of our players and coaches have played a huge role. It would be tough to mention all of them without forgetting someone,” Hoops said. “I’ve been blessed to be surrounded with outstanding coaches and players.”
Two of Hoops’ assistant coaches — John Bruce and Nick Easterday — have been with him during his 100-200 win tenure.
Together, they’ve led the program to multiple conference, sectional and district crowns. Those wins are the ones that stand out in Hoops’ mind the most.
“The SVC, sectional and district titles have all been special,” Hoops said. “We have definitely enjoyed each and every win because we know how difficult they are to come by.”
As Hoops’ coaching legacy continues to take form, currently, his Shermans sit at 8-2 overall and at the top of the SVC’s standings with a 6-0 mark.
He hopes his success with the Shermans continues in the years to come.
“I think, as a coach, you are constantly trying to find ways to improve and evolve,” Hoops said. “Great players make it easy to improve as a coach, which we’ve certainly had.”
Unioto is back in action this coming Friday, hosting Westfall.