COACH NICK VACCARO BOOSTS BRENTWOOD HS GOLF TO ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL SEASON
When Nick Vaccaro was named Head Coach of the Brentwood High School Golf Team in 2021, he took on the role with a clear vision: to build enthusiasm for the sport and establish a foundation for lasting success.
Five years later, his efforts have transformed the program. Coach Vaccaro developed a comprehensive plan to grow interest in golf among Brentwood students. In his first year, the team roster included just 12 players— but by 2024 and 2025, participation had grown to as many as 18 to 20 golfers. He introduced an offseason training program, organized an annual golf outing to raise funds, and encouraged students— many of whom had never swung a golf club before— to take up the sport. The results have been nothing short of remarkable, a testament to his vision, leadership, and determination.
Under Coach Vaccaro’ s leadership, the Spartans have become a consistent contender in regional competition. The team qualified for the WPIAL Team Championships in 2023, 2024 and 2025, while individual golfers have also earned recognition— Aidan Barker advanced to the WPIAL Individual Championships in 2024, and Travis Kuehn followed in 2025. The 2024 season marked a historic milestone when Brentwood captured its first-ever WPIAL Section Co- Championship, highlighting the program’ s rapid rise.
Off the course, Coach Vaccaro’ s impact is equally profound. A Social Studies teacher at Brentwood Middle School for the past eight years, he has built meaningful relationships with students long before they reach high school. His daily presence and mentorship have created a natural bridge between academics and athletics, fostering trust and enthusiasm among his players.
To support year-round player development, Coach Vaccaro established an indoor hitting area within the school, complete with a virtual simulator that allows golfers to practice a variety of shots. He collaborates closely with Cedarbrook Golf Course and South Park Golf Course— the team’ s home venue— to ensure players have access to highquality practice facilities. In addition, Brentwood golfers benefit from training through the First Tee of Pittsburgh, where small-group instruction helps players refine their skills and confidence.
Over the past five seasons, the Brentwood Varsity Golf Team has experienced a true resurgence. The program’ s success is a direct reflection of Coach Vaccaro’ s dedication, creativity and commitment to his players. As the team continues to grow in both skill and spirit, the Brentwood community looks forward to celebrating many more achievements in the years ahead. rentwood Borough
SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
ATHLETICS
2025-26 Winter Sport Seniors PHOTOS BY: JEFF HEALY AND M & M PHOTOGRAPHY
Boys Basketball
L to R: Deng Mu and Wyatt Wooten
Girls Basketball
L to R: Lila Tinker, Emma Thompson and Tafsirra Garba-Gambari
Swimming
L to R: Connor Dusch, Ainsley Kraeuter and Braden Bakowski
BRENTWOOD-BALDWIN-WHITEHALL ❘ SPRING 2026 19