Besides being a member of the Social Studies department, Mr. Jason Hasson is also the new head coach of the Varsity Basketball team. The Hall sat down with him to ask some questions about his background with the sport and how it has impacted his life on and off the court.
Besides being a member of the Social Studies department, Mr. Jason Hasson is also the new head coach of the Varsity Basketball team. The Hall sat down with him to ask some questions about his background with the sport and how it has impacted his life on and off the court.
Q: What is your previous experience coaching and playing basketball? A: I played for Bishop Guilfoyle High School in Altoona, PA and then on a basketball scholarship at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA. I began to coach at Manhattanville College in White Plains, NY, then coached in high school at American Christian School and St Anthony High School in Jersey City, NJ. In 2011, I began my first head coaching job at Pope John XXIII HS in Spartan, NJ, where I amassed a 117-32 record over 5 years. I spent the past two seasons as a head coach at West Catholic Prep in Philadelphia.
Q: What was your first experience with basketball? What drew you to the sport? Why did you decide to become a coach? A: I grew up with basketball, as my dad was a high school coach my entire life. I always wanted to be a coach.
Q: What is your favorite memory from your time as a basketball coach or player? Is there a specific game that stands out in your mind? A: Winning the 2015 state championship in NJ against Christian Brother's Academy.
Q: What are you most excited about for the season? A: Building a culture that matches the level of excellence of the school.
Q: What do you hope to bring as a coach to Calvert Hall? A: I want to reestablish Calvert Hall as one of the top teams in the country and a program that kids want to be a part of.
Q: If you could only choose one word (or phrase) to describe your coaching style, what would it be and why? A: Intense. I want all of the players in our program to reach their potential.
Q: If you could go back in time to speak to your high school self, what is one piece of advice you would give him? A: Just to not worry about what others think and always be yourself.
Q: Who do you consider to be your role model(s)? Do you have a favorite basketball coach? A: My dad & coach Bob Hurley are my mentors. John Calipari is my favorite coach.