New Varsity Basketball Coach Appointed

This year, the varsity basketball team will take the court under new leadership. Chris Dial is joining the faculty on August 1 and will become St. Mark’s next Head Varsity Basketball Coach as a member of the athletics and physical education staff. A native Texan and highly experienced coach, Coach Dial grew up in San Antonio and has devoted his entire life to the game of basketball. He has been actively engaged in elevating basketball around the world as a coach and a mentor, successfully leading programs at both the high school and collegiate levels, most recently as Head Coach at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, where he launched their varsity program. 

In 2014, Coach Dial started a nonprofit organization, The Basketball Embassy, which has run programs, camps, and clinics in the U.S. and overseas, guiding players and coaches from more than 100 countries. His commitment to the development of character and his love for helping student-athletes prepare for a life of thriving were compelling qualities that brought Coach Dial to St. Mark’s. 

“The alignment of the School's mission with my family makes this opportunity truly unique and special,” said Coach Dial. “I am excited about supporting the continued successes of the young men that call St. Mark’s home. I am humbled by the opportunity to serve this community and look forward to complementing an already well-established culture of integrity, service-oriented leadership, and high character.”  
 
“Chris has consistently demonstrated excellence and outstanding character in his professional career, and his coaching philosophy aligns with our values,” said Mark Sullivan, Interim Director of Athletics. “He brings out the best in every student-athlete and understands what it takes to thrive both on and off the court. His deep well of knowledge, experience, and passion for basketball will help us continue to strengthen our program, and we are thrilled that he is joining the St. Mark’s family.”

He earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Political Science from Texas Lutheran University and a master’s degree in International Studies from Texas State University. He is also the father of an eight-year-old son, Jamison, who will be a proud Lions fan.

Coach Dial plans to meet with basketball players in the coming weeks in anticipation of the new school year and looks forward to getting to know Marksmen on every corner of campus.