After a Decade, Coach Josh Neudel Steps Down

By: Craig Byer, Web & Social Media Specialist at Gann Academy

 

Josh Neudel, the longest tenured athletics coach at Gann Academy, has stepped down from his position as head coach of the girls’ varsity soccer team after ten seasons. Neudel led Gann to consecutive IGC League titles and NEPSAC tournament appearances in 2007 and 2008. In 2007, the program won the IGC tournament championship and also advanced to the semifinals of the NEPSAC tournament.

Neudel’s impact at Gann was felt on and off the pitch from students and faculty alike. “He helped me gain more confidence and believe in myself as a player and leader and gave me constant support whenever it was needed,” said senior Missy Kintish, who was coached by Neudel for the last three seasons. Furthermore, Kintish pointed out that Neudel’s presence was “invaluable” to her growth as a student-athlete at Gann.

Said senior Jackie Teperman: “Mr. Neudel always pushed me to be a better soccer player. He was always constructive, and by the end of a season, I could see how much I had improved. I’ve played in winning and losing games, but Mr. Neudel would make every game, no matter the score, an opportunity to improve our team.”

Athletic Director Susan Johnson, who worked with Neudel for the last five years, said that Gann soccer — and the athletics department as a whole — is a better place for his service. Johnson also expressed admiration for Neudel’s ability to balance both classroom and academic matters.  “His outstanding ability to successfully combine challenge and nurture has had a strong impact on the growth and maturation of his players on and off the field,” said Johnson.

Although Neudel will no longer coach soccer at Gann, he will be remembered for building the foundation for one of Gann’s original athletic teams. He is not leaving Gann’s campus though as he returns to the classroom as a science teacher and also serves as science department chair.

Margot Rendall, who has been the JV head coach in the program for the past four years, takes over as head coach. Coach Rendall will be ably assisted by new varsity assistant coach, Carly Westman.