BRANT HALL ’98 SET TO MAKE 2016 CAMPAIGN HIS FINAL SEASON AS HEAD COACH
In his fifth season as head coach of the varsity football team, Brant Hall ’98 is stepping down at the conclusion of the 2016 season. Appointed in February 2012 after serving as offensive coordinator for nine years, Coach Hall has played an integral role in guiding the program, which has produced several graduates playing at the collegiate level.
“Brant brings so much joy to the game of football, and our boys have benefited by his example both on and off the field,” said John Marinacci, Principal. “He is a model Don that will continue to be an influential figure in the life of our school community.”
Hall also serves as Assistant Director of Athletics. In that role, he has been instrumental in launching initiatives to deliver Loyola’s Ignatian ideals to interscholastic sports. In partnership with the Office of Ignatian Ministry & Identity, Coach Hall has led Ignatian formation programs for coaches, as well as parents of student athletes.
“Brant is an inspiring ambassador for our Ignatian principles,” said Mike Keeney, Director of Athletics. “He embodies the mission of the school in a way that sets an outstanding example for our Dons.”
In deciding to transition out of his role as head coach, Hall pointed to his desire to devote more time with his family as a key motivator. “Football is a great game that I love very much and I’m honored to coach at Loyola,” said Hall. “My two boys are getting older and my wife and I have our own hopes and dreams to pursue together as a family.” As a player and coach, Brant has been active in football for 29 years. “It’s a great game, but at the end of the day, still just a game,” said Hall. “I’ve been honored to be able to use football as a means to inspire young men. They’ll never be defined by what they do on the field, but by their actions beyond it. I hope I’ve made a positive difference in their lives.”
A three-year varsity starter during his time at Loyola Blakefield, Hall was named the Baltimore Sun’s Metro Player of the Year in 1997. He was a member of two tri-championship teams and one MIAA Championship squad. He attended Lehigh University, where he was twice named 1st Team All-Patriot League. During his tenure at Lehigh, the team won four consecutive Patriot League Championships. Hall currently stands as the winningest QB in Lehigh history.
Brant will continue as Assistant Director of Athletics and play a key role in recruitment efforts, while assisting with the seamless transition of the program. A search to identify Loyola’s next varsity head coach will commence in December.
“We still have a lot of season left and our goal is to continue to work hard for the win each week,” said Hall. “I might not be coaching these boys in football going forward, but I’m not stepping out of their lives. I want to be there for them and have the opportunity to help them grow.”
