Embarking on his coaching journey in 1973, just a year after his high school graduation, Michael DelBene's path began as an 8th-grade basketball coach. Through dedication and progression, he ascended to the position of Varsity Head Coach at two distinct valley high schools. During his time at McDonald, his teams clinched three Sectional Championships, achieved district runner-up status, and secured the District championship. He garnered the prestigious title of Trumbull County Coach of the Year twice and was also named Mahoning Valley Coaches Association Coach of the Year twice. Subsequently, as the head coach of Girard Boys' varsity basketball, Michael's leadership resulted in his teams becoming Sectional Champions three times, District Runners-up once, and District Champions once. His remarkable abilities were further acknowledged when he earned the titles of both Trumbull County and Mahoning Valley Coaches Associations' Coach of the Year during the 2000-2001 period. In that season, the GHS team posted a record of 17-7. Over the course of his career, Michael has achieved 150 victories as a head basketball coach. Beyond basketball, Michael also lent his coaching talents to baseball and softball in Girard. Among his early achievements was leading one of his little league teams, Syro Steel, to a championship victory. Although he retired from teaching in 2013, Michael's passion for coaching endures. He continues to contribute to Girard High School, where he currently serves as an assistant for the girls' basketball team.
