Greenwich Head Football Coach Steps Down From Position

GREENWICH, CT — John Marinelli, beloved Head Football Coach for Greenwich High School, has announced he is stepping down and has accepted a position as Offensive Analyst for the University of Arizona football program. He made the announcement at a meeting with his team Thursday afternoon.

Marinelli, who has lead the team since 2015, also took to Twitter to thank a number of people who helped make his time in Greenwich an "amazing" experience.

"I have stepped down from my position as Head Football Coach at Greenwich High School," Marinelli wrote on Twitter. "I want to thank the administration, teachers, community, parents and most importantly the players for the amazing experience of being your Head Coach. It was an honor, and one I'll always cherish. I am moving to the college ranks at the University of Arizona, and while I'm excited for what's ahead, I'm sad to leave this amazing family behind. Greenwich is home to me. Thanks to everyone who made an impact on the young men and women involved."

During his four years as Head Coach, Marinelli led the Greenwich High football team to its first State Championship in over ten years last fall. Prior to his arrival in Greenwich, he served as the Offensive Coordinator for New Canaan High School from 2009 to 2014. During that time, he took part in five State Championship Games, winning three State Titles and one FCIAC Championship.

He was also previously a Graduate Assistant Coach at the University of Rhode Island.

"The past four years have been the greatest of my life," Marinelli said in a release. "From day one, this community has welcomed me with open arms and embraced change. In four years we set the bar for how a program should be for the student-athletes. As a high school coach, our role on the field is secondary to teenagers’ growth as young people. I feel blessed and honored that I was able to lead this program. I thank all of you for allowing me the opportunity to coach your children."

Marinelli also offered a message to his treasured student-athletes.

"I'll be following closely, good luck this fall, defend our title, but never forget what this sport teaches. Greater than wins and losses, football teaches life lessons and how to overcome adversity. Keep playing, keep learning and keep challenging yourselves to be the best version of
yourself."

According to his bio on the Greenwich Football website, Marinelli has also worked closely with the YWCA & YNET services in Greenwich since his first year, and was given the Purple Ribbon Award by the YWCA Greenwich Domestic Abuse Services in 2017 for his commitment to the prevention of domestic violence.

"We have been very fortunate the past four years to have someone as dedicated, enthusiastic and passionate as Coach Marinelli," GHS Athletic Director Gus Lindine said in a release. "From the moment he became head coach he set high expectations for our football program. He has been well-respected by players, parents and opponents and has been a positive member of our high school and community. I can only wish him all the best and I know we will all miss him greatly."