We are thrilled to announce that Marcus Wattley Sr. has been named the new Head Football Coach and Director of Retention & Academic Success at STVM.
Coach Wattley, a respected educator, proven leader, and highly accomplished high school football coach, returns to STVM after serving as Defensive Coordinator at Archbishop Hoban High School in 2025, where he helped lead the Knights to a 10–2 record and a regional final appearance in the OHSAA playoffs.
Wattley’s connection to STVM football spans more than a decade and represents one of the program’s most successful eras. After joining the coaching staff under legendary Head Coach Dan Boarman, Wattley played a key role in guiding the Irish to back-to-back OHSAA State Championships in 2012 and 2013, a State Semifinal in 2014, and another strong postseason run in 2017. During his eleven seasons on staff, STVM advanced to the playoffs ten times, marking a period of consistent excellence in the program’s history.
During his first tenure as Head Football Coach at St. Vincent–St. Mary (2016–2017), Wattley guided the Irish to a 20–6 record, sustaining the program’s championship momentum and helping develop student-athletes who went on to compete at both collegiate and professional levels.
Beyond STVM, Wattley brings more than 20 years of coaching experience across youth, high school, and collegiate levels. His broader coaching résumé includes:
- 31–15 overall record as a high school head coach (St. Vincent–St. Mary 2016–2017; Canton McKinley 2019–2021)
- Stark County Coach of the Year
- Federal League Coach of the Year
- Two OHSAA State Championships (2012, 2013)
- State Semifinalist (2014, 2017)
- Ten playoff appearances in eleven seasons while coaching at STVM
As Head Football Coach, Wattley will oversee all aspects of the football program, ensuring alignment with STVM’s Catholic Marianist mission, values, and expectations for student-athlete development, competitive excellence, and positive program culture.
“Marcus Wattley’s leadership and football acumen are proven,” said Dave Vitatoe, President of St. Vincent–St. Mary High School, “but it is his ability to develop his players and show care on and off the field that aligns with the family spirit of our mission and positions us for a sustainable, winning culture in the years ahead. We’re excited to usher in this new era of STVM Football.”
“I am incredibly appreciative and excited to return to St. Vincent–St. Mary as Head Football Coach,” said Marcus Wattley. “‘Irish Pride’ still runs deep here, and I’m eager to help write the next chapter of that tradition with our players and the entire Irish community. I truly believe in the direction and commitment of the school and what we can build together. Go Irish!”
In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Wattley will serve as Director of Retention & Academic Success, leading student retention initiatives, student-athlete academic support, compliance processes, and strategic outreach efforts, including summer academic enrichment programming.
What They Are Saying:
Kyle Sasala, Athletic Director:
“We are excited to welcome Coach Wattley back to STVM. With a focus on player development and a deep understanding of what it takes to win the right way, our entire community looks forward to supporting him in that effort.”
Mani Powell, Purdue Boilermakers Senior Linebacker:
“Most importantly, Coach Wattley is an honorable man. He’s someone players will look up to and a coach who teaches far more than just football. I appreciate all his support, and I know he’ll be a great fit.”
Niko Lalos VM16, NFL Defensive End (New Orleans Saints, New York Giants):
“I can’t imagine how different my life would be had I not chosen to come to STVM and play for Coach Wattley. His influence made me a better player, a better scholar, and a better man.”
Patrick Oliverio VM15:
“You could not have found a better coach or a better man to lead the storied STVM football program. Coach Wattley had a profound impact on my teammates and me during a championship era highlighted by some of the best defenses in the state. He brings out the best in his players, and his mentorship continues well beyond your playing days. I am excited for the current and future players as they begin their journey toward becoming champions on the field and beacons of light at STVM and in the community. Welcome back, Coach Watt, and Go Irish!”
Dr. Tyler Bischof VM12, Summa Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine:
“This hire should excite every player – past, present, and future. Coach Wattley’s knowledge of the game is unmatched, shaped by years of experience at both the high school and collegiate levels. I was fortunate to play for Coach Watt for three years, and he and the staff played a significant role in shaping the player I was then and the man I am now. He values respect, toughness, and tradition, and I’m confident that his leadership will lead to wins on Friday nights and the development of young men on and off the field. Welcome home, Coach.”
Please join us in welcoming Coach Wattley back to STVM!
