As Germantown Academy (GA) enters its winter sports season, two of GA’s most successful programs are set to debut new coaches. In the swimming program, new head coach Mr. Matt Cox has big shoes to fill, as he replaces one of GAs’ most winningest coaches, Mr. Jeff Thompson. On the other hand, new Varsity Boys Basketball head coach Mr. John Cox looks to rebuild the program into the giant it once was. Both coaches’ past experiences and strong leadership have excited many at GA, and suggest that their respective programs are in line for a bright future.
The GA swim and dive program begins a new era under, who is focused on creating a positive and competitive environment for athletes. Former head coach, Coach Jeff Thompson, served as a mentor to Cox for many years.
Mr. Cox said his philosophy centers around strong relationships and steady improvement.
“At the end of the day, this is going to be about the relationships that we build, because one day swimming is going to end,” Mr. Cox said.
“With that foundation, we want to challenge athletes to get better,” Mr. Cox said.
This season brings notable training changes. Morning practices now begin with dryland workouts to help athletes stay fresh and start the day off later to support recovery. Afternoon practices are more intense with competitive sets that match swimmers against one another.
“That’s how you practice teamwork, by racing each other,” Mr Cox said.
Shaping team culture is another priority. Cox said he hopes swimmers will build stronger connections across different practice groups.
“I want people to get to know teammates outside their bubble,” Mr. Cox said.
He added that long-term goals include pursuing ambitious team achievements.
“It’d be great to get another banner up on the wall, plain and simple,” Cox said.
Cox said stepping into the role is meaningful after spending many years with the program.
“Coach Jeff was my mentor, and it makes it even more special that I can lead the program here,” Cox said.
With a new training structure, renewed culture and high expectations, GA swimming enters a promising chapter.
In addition, the GA Boys Basketball team will embark on its journey with a new coach this season.
Coach John Cox is looking to bring an environment where his players can express themselves not only on the court, but off the court as well, citing team chemistry as a key to success.
“I think the boys do a good job of coming out to the volleyball games, soccer games, field hockey games, matching what’s really them,” Cox said “Also, activities outside of school, whether it’s eating together, trying to recognize guys’ birthdays, or going bowling, I think if you build team chemistry, it just helps you trust each other on the court.”
After a long summer and off-season of training, Cox is ready to start on the right foot. He credited the offseason workouts for showing him the effort of the squad.
“If you have extra things that are not really mandatory, you can just see who is really invested and loves the game and wants to get better. Because a lot of times it’s not just on the court, it’s about getting stronger in the weight room, eating the right things, it’s asking to watch film…,” Cox said.
Overall, it seems that GA has found the right two men to be the faces of their Boys Basketball and Swimming programs, respectively. Both squads are ready to kick off seasons full of potential and excitement, and with the quality of their new coaches, they look prepared for a year of success.