Photo courtesy of Immaculate High School
Masuk has found a new coach to replace Steve Christy who retired after the season. Chris Pace, formally the coach at ATI was named the new head football coach of the Panthers on Friday afternoon.
Pace is a graduate of Springfield College, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education and Health.
In a statement released by the school, Pace talked about the opportunity to take over a program with a rich history of success like Masuk.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled and truly honored to have the opportunity to lead such a program, filled with so much tradition and pride,” Pace said in a press release. “From the players to the parents, the school, and the community, it’s an opportunity that anyone would be excited about. I’m fully committed to this program and these players, getting them to succeed both on and off the field. I’m eager to get to work and continue to build on everything that makes this program great.”
Pace was most recently the coach at ATI (Abbott Tech and Immaculate High Schools) where he posted a record of 30-13. ATI became the first CTC program under Pace to win a CIAC state tournament game and also led the program to its first ever CTC championship in the same year.
Pace has also been a head coach with the East Harlem Pride (NY) (2010-2014), Weston High School (2014-2016) and Bullard-Havens (2018-2019). Pace was also an assistant at Staples in 2017.
Athletic Director Brian Hourigan is excited to work with Pace as the new coach looks to continue the program’s winning ways.
“We are very excited for Chris to be leading our football program. He is an experienced coach and dedicated educator who has great passion for helping student-athletes reach their fullest potential. Chris impressed our interview committees with his detailed preparation, football knowledge, and his commitment to supporting players in the classroom and the community.”
Pace is taking over a Masuk program that won the Class MM state title. The Panthers return sophomore quarterback Aaron Champagne, kicker Jackson Zylick who kicked the last second game winning field goal against Windsor and Jake Viglione among others. It is a talented roster that is well positioned to make another run.