Quabbin names a new girls soccer coach, goal to bring competitive spirit to the program
This fall, Quabbin will welcome a new face to the coaching staff. Taking over as varsity girls soccer coach for the 2024 season is John Gillis.
Former coach Jamie Cook is stepping down after seven years to have the opportunity to watch her sons play. As the girls coach, Cook worked around her own schedule to make as many of her sons’ games, but now wants to enjoy watching them play throughout their high school careers.
Gillis comes into the role with club soccer coaching experience. He started his own club team, SCOR FC, that he later merged with FC Stars. Gillis has helped coach many talented soccer teams, with a high rate of athletes making the Elite Club National League (ECNL) after their years on Gillis’ team.
His two daughters, Delaney (Class of 2019) and Emelia (Class of 2020), both starred on the Quabbin High girls soccer program and earned county and state recognitions during their time as Panthers.
More: Gardner-area football athletes have a chance to learn from NFL tight end at local clinic
“We are thrilled that John is coming on board with our girls varsity program,” Quabbin athletic director Mark Miville said. “John’s leadership, vision, expertise and passion for the game are exactly what we need to continue to grow the program.”
With his knowledge of high-level soccer from coaching club, Gillis hopes to bring a competitive edge to the high school team. The Panthers had a tough season this past fall, going just 4-9-4, but Gillis is confident he can help rejuvenate the program and bring a culture of competition.
More: These 10 athletes shined in the latest Gardner-area games. Vote for the best performance.
“I’m excited and kind of a little re-energized,” Gillis said. “I saw the position open, and I gave my notice for Stars this year…I thought coaching high school would be a way I could still stay in the game.”
One of Gillis' main focuses in his new role is to connect with the youth programs in the area to help set the standard at a young age for future Panthers. He also hopes to introduce the club world to more of the high school players in hopes they can improve year-round to create an overall stronger soccer culture at Quabbin.
This article originally appeared on Gardner News: New Quabbin soccer coach comes with high-level club experience
