This past summer, Saint Stephen’s appointed a new varsity boys basketball head coach, Mr. Kevin Sutton. Since his arrival in August, Sutton has stepped into the role with a mission: to transform the boys basketball program. 

Sutton brings over 40 years of coaching experience, starting his career immediately after graduating from James Madison University and his work experience is outstanding. 

“That type of resume is rare,” Hudson said. “His presence will be invaluable to our school community.” 

Sutton has coached at multiple DI programs, including as an assistant at Georgetown under John Thompson. He also coached the University of Pittsburgh, George Washington, and Old Dominion, among others, as well as at Montverde Academy near Orlando, one of the strongest high school programs in the country.  

Head of School Peter Kraft and Athletic Director Cole Hudson saw something special about Sutton and his leadership, not only is his impressive resume, but in who he is as a person. 

“Coach Sutton’s passion, commitment, and heart for the game of basketball is impeccable,” Hudson said. “He is a tremendous basketball coach, but he is an even better human and teacher.

Sutton has already made an impact on the community. He goes beyond coaching when it comes to his players, requiring team-bonding activities, organizing fundraisers, and installing monthly service opportunities that players must participate in. 

Senior Luka Kouengoua, a transfer student from Belgium and new member of the basketball program, has noticed the difference in himself and the team already. 

Kouengoua explained how Sutton has a strong impact by requiring players to participate in community-oriented activities. For example, the “Read Aloud” program, where players read to lower school students, and the mandatory Study Skills meetings for the team.

“Off the court, he tries to make us help the community by reading for the lower school,” Kouengoua said. “On the court, he corrects even the smallest details to make us evolve as players.” 

One of Sutton’s goals is preparing student-athletes not only for basketball, but for life. For Sutton, with privilege comes great responsibility.  

“Luke 12:48, which says, To whom much has given, much is expected, is one we live by,” Sutton said. “I want to build a culture rooted in love, work, joy, service, and togetherness.” 

Millen Batson, a junior who has played on varsity for three years, has been inspired by Sutton’s leadership, spirit, and direct method of communication. 

“He only speaks the truth,” said Millen. “It’s really what everyone needs to hear, not necessarily what they want to hear.” 

Batson and Kouengoua describe Sutton’s personality as intense but purposeful, and add that his words encourage players to improve every aspect they have in life. 

“In life, he makes me appreciate and be grateful for the small gestures that people do for me,” Kouengoua said. “He makes me grow as a person and not only a player.” 

After a period of inconsistency, the Falcon basketball program is gaining momentum, becoming a hot topic around the school, even though the season hasn’t even started.

Senior Gabriel Conn is the president of the Spirit Club, and Conn expressed excitement for the upcoming season. 

“I’m super excited because of all the new potential we have on the team,” Conn said. 

This winter, the boys’ varsity basketball team opens its season at home against rival ODA at home on November 18th.