The Patrick Henry High girls’ basketball team has found a new head coach for the 2026-27 season. Berlyn Seitz, who brings several years of experience to her new role, takes over for Eugene “Blue” Cook, who went 90-42 in five years.
“The best thing we did was send a player to college each year on a scholarship. I want to thank everyone that ever brought a ticket to see the Lady Patriots play or supported us,” Blue, who also set a school record for most wins in a season, said after resigning from the post.
Seitz, a Missouri native, graduated from South Callaway High and played basketball at Bridgewater College under Coach Jean Willi. After earning an undergraduate degree in exercise physiology, she obtained a master’s degree from the University of Lynchburg in educational leadership.
Seitz spent several years coaching at the middle school, junior varsity and varsity levels. Her coaching stops include Liberty High School in Bedford, Franklin County High in Rocky Mount and Salem High. At the latter, she reached the Regional Final Four.
In addition to coaching the varsity team, Seitz will also teach science at Patrick Henry.
The program has never won a VHSL girls’ state basketball championship. Five years ago, PH came close after reaching the Class 5 title game before losing to Princess Anne High.
When Seitz was a high school student, Candace Parker and Tina Charles were the best women’s basketball players in America. Today, that distinction belongs to Aja Wilson and Caitlin Clark.
What makes those athletes so great – discipline, toughness and teamwork – are all attributes that Seitz wants to instill in her players.
“My coaching philosophy is about building people, not just players,” she said. “I want my athletes to leave the program more confident, more disciplined and better equipped for life, both on and off the court. I’m excited to build strong relationships with our student-athletes, their families and the community as we begin this new chapter together.”
In a statement, Athletic Director Patti Atkinson said, “Coach Seitz brings a passion for developing student-athletes both on and off the court, and we are excited to welcome her to Patrick Henry. Her experience as both an educator and coach, combined with her commitment to building relationships and establishing a strong team culture, makes her an outstanding fit for our girls’ basketball program.”
In about four months, the season will kick off. If Seitz is going to accomplish her ultimate goals, it will require building character, creating strong relationships and establishing consistent communication across all levels, among other aspects.
