college days at Westminster , the transition from player to coach was a natural evolution . “ Coaching became a natural fit as my playing career came to an end ,” he says .
Now in his 26th year at Mars Area High School and 30th year overall in coaching , Carmody acknowledges the pivotal role of Scott Heinauer , the longtime Mars athletic director , in shaping the trajectory of his coaching career . He applied for the coaching position at Mars at the age of 26 , armed with limited experience but fueled by a vision for the program ’ s future . Heinauer ’ s guidance and patience paved the way for Carmody to transform the Mars basketball program into what it is today .
This season , Carmody ’ s team is facing the challenge of filling big shoes . With a remarkable 16 consecutive years in the WPIAL playoffs and numerous PIAA playoff appearances , the expectations are high . Despite the tough schedule and a demanding section , Carmody believes in the potential of his program and the resilience of his players .
Two memorable games stand out in Carmody ’ s coaching career . The first — a comeback victory in 2018 against West Allegheny , where his son Robby scored 10 points in the final 30 seconds , defying the odds . The second is the 2019 WPIAL Championship , where a remarkable three-pointer at the buzzer secured their second consecutive championship .
Carmody ’ s coaching journey extends beyond the high school arena . Coaching a national championship AAU team in 2016 and winning the Junior International Tourney in Italy in 2017 have added layers of achievement to his storied career . But nothing compares to the six years he had the privilege to coach his sons . “ I didn ’ t set out to coach my own kids , but those times are by far the best part of my career ,” he says . The shared passion for basketball became a bond that goes beyond the court , creating cherished memories for the entire family .
“ Mars Area is a unique place with a proud community that extends unwavering support ,” adds Carmody . With a staff consisting of longtime colleagues and former players , the Mars basketball program stands as a testament to unity and enduring traditions , such as the weekly spaghetti dinners that have persisted for over two decades .
As Carmody looks ahead , he envisions pushing the program and , most importantly , continuing to be an enthusiastic and passionate teacher of the game . Balancing his coaching duties with co-ownership of a small business , Carmody also cherishes moments with his family , watching his children play sports and traveling with his wife .
Reflecting on his 400 wins , Carmody expresses a profound sense of gratitude . “ I have never made a shot at Mars , grabbed a rebound or taken a charge . But I have gotten to be a part of 25 ( now 26 ) teams and their journeys .” For him , the lessons of leadership , resiliency , accountability , grit and pride in one ’ s actions far outweigh any numerical milestone . n
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