Rumson-Fair Haven Girls Basketball coach George Sourlis celebrates his recent milestone 600th career win, with wife Nikie and members of the RFH Lady Bulldogs. (HoopGroup)
Press release from Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School
George Sourlis, Head Coach for Girls’ Basketball at Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School, reached a landmark on Friday, January 24 with his 600th win for the school. The Lady Dawgs prevailed over Holmdel High School in a Class A Central Division game, with a score of 44-38.
The RFH players celebrated the milestone win with balloons spelling out the number 600 and t-shirts imprinted with the number — as well as a commemorative basketball, which they presented to their coach.
Sourlis, who has more wins than any other girls’ coach in Shore Conference history, is currently in his 28th season at RFH. With Sourlis as Head Coach, the Lady Bulldogs have earned 14 Sectional State Titles (ten of them consecutive), 16 Shore Conference Division Titles, five State Group Titles, and five appearances in the semi-finals of the Tournament of Champions.
“George Sourlis is an incredible motivator and does a tremendous job of getting the most out of his players,” said Chris Lanzalotto, RFH Director of Athletics and Extracurricular Activities. “Most significantly, he creates an environment in which his players believe in him 100 percent and are willing to do whatever it takes to follow him on his quest for excellence.”
During his first season at RFH, George racked up 22 wins and coached his sister Dorothy, an outstanding player who earned a full basketball scholarship to University of Michigan. Sourlis, who had originally been convinced to fill the coaching vacancy by his sister, initially planned on coaching for three years and leaving upon his sister’s graduation. Instead, he became committed to continuing to build the team into the successful program it is today.
“This milestone is the culmination and result of a lot of hard work from so many players, coaches, and everyone surrounding and supporting our program,” said Sourlis. “I am the beneficiary of all of their efforts, so I dedicate and share this feat with them.”
