by Quinn Stephenson

When long-time head Varsity football coach Jim Stephens stepped down from his head coaching job, he left some big shoes to fill. In the end, it was Benjamin Malbasa ‘96, who was chosen to fill those shoes and coach the University School football team. Coach Malbasa is returning to University School after successful seasons at Elyria Catholic, Benedictine, and NDCL.

When asked about his views on where the program will be in the next five years he had this to say, “What is important to us is that we continue a great process of winning at the highest level of football. As long as we have players at University working hard in the offseason and the players remain hungry for success, US will continue to have a great football program.” You can already see this as Coach Malbasa earned the first victory of his career as the new head coach by pouncing on the Youngstown East Panthers in an astounding 43-28 US win.

However, even more important is his respect towards his players. “The commitment of the players that have chosen to play football, especially in Northeast Ohio, is outstanding. Playing football in Northeast Ohio is a choice to push ones self in the most extreme manner possible.”

Even with all the hitting, running, and tackling, Coach Malbasa always teaches his players to act with the school motto in mind. “The commitment of the players to one another is a great way to live the motto. If a player is responsible he does what he has to for the betterment of the team. If he is loyal, he plays not only for himself, but also for every other player on the team. If he is considerate, he considers what he has to do for his teammates to get the job done.”