Green Wave finds coaches for multiple programs

By Roger Lee

HSSR Contributing Writer

Summerville – Cory Magwood, who is entering his second school year as the Summerville Athletic Director, didn’t have to look far to find most of the coaches he sought.

Summerville has named four new head coaches for its varsity sports programs just in time for the start of the 2025-26 school year. It is still searching for a new Boys Soccer coach, but since that is a Spring sport there is some time.

Michael Jenkins, a 1995 Summerville graduate and member of the Summerville Athletic Hall of Fame, has been named the new head for the Green Wave Boys Basketball program.

“It’s an honor to lead a program known for its success and dedication to high school basketball,” Jenkins said. “I’m excited to be home and consider myself lucky to work with such a good group of young men.”

Jenkins brings with him 17 years of experience coaching basketball, including seven successful seasons as Head Coach at Stratford High School (2016–2023) and eight years prior as Assistant Varsity Coach (2008–2016). He returned to his alma mater in 2023 as an Assistant Coach with the Green Wave program, helping to continue the school’s tradition of excellence both on and off the court.

He replaces David Long, who held the position the past nine years. Long was an assistant coach for the program for four years prior to being named head coach.

“Coach Jenkins returns to where it all began, bringing a powerful combination of hometown pride, leadership, and a deep passion for developing student-athletes,” Magwood said. “With high energy, strategic insight, and a strong commitment to excellence, he has already begun laying the foundation for success while focusing on confidence, skill development, and a competitive mindset that reflects the true spirit of Green Wave basketball.”

Jesse Gladis, who has been the head coach for the Boys Tennis team the last several years, is adding to his responsibilities by taking on the Boys Swimming team.

“Coach Gladis is no stranger to success or to leading young athletes with passion and purpose,” Magwood said. “A familiar face in the Green Wave family, he has spent nearly a decade building one of the strongest boys’ tennis programs in the region. He is one of the best when it comes to building a program from the ground up and discovering hidden talent right within our own hallways.”

Lori Gladis is the new head of the Girls Swimming program.

“We’re excited to welcome Lori Gladis,” Magwood said. “She brings years of experience as a swim instructor in our community and has completed extensive coaching training to prepare for this new chapter. She’s already made a big impact ­- bringing energy, organization, and leadership to the program. From day one, she’s been by the team’s side at early morning weight training, motivating and guiding the girls every step of the way.”

Carneal Hall is the new Head Strength and Conditioning Coach.

“Carneal brings a powerful blend of firsthand experience and proven leadership, both as a former standout athlete and as a dedicated coach and educator,” Magwood said. “He was a four-year starter on the offensive line at Chowan University and for the past five years he’s coached at his alma mater, Silver Bluff, where he taught PE, coached the offensive line, and led athletic development for all sports. His impact will go far beyond the weight room.”

The school’s other coaches are largely veteran and successful.

“I couldn’t be more proud or excited about the group of coaches we have here,” Magwood said. “Each one brings not only a wealth of knowledge and competitive fire to their sport, but also a deep commitment to developing our student-athletes as leaders both on and off the field of play.”

Heather Tucker returns after leading the Softball team to its third straight 5A Softball State final. Her team won two of them.

Darryl Tucker returns and has led the Wrestling team multiple Lower State championships. Calvin Davis led the Girls Basketball team to the 5A, Division 1 State Finals last season.

Ian Rafferty is back to head the football program after leading the Green Wave to the 5A, Division 1 State Championship game last season.

Other head coaches returning to Summerville include Kelly Hazel (Cross Country), Kevin Bellush (Track), Thane Maness (Baseball), Scott Little (Athletic Trainer), Ashley Jacobs (Cheerleading), Amanda Holcomb (Girls Soccer), Scott Little (Athletic Trainer), Liz Yohe (Girls Volleyball), Steve DiPaolo (Boys Volleyball), Skyler Dennis (Golf) and Richard Schulz (Girls Tennis).