2 minute read
Steven Garcia Leads By Example
Walking the Walk
By Josh Blumenthal | Associate Athletic Director
When prospective families step foot onto either of the St. Andrew’s
School campuses, they often are greeted by Steven Garcia ’02.
The Director of Middle School Admissions/Assistant Director of Upper School Admissions and Head Varsity Baseball Coach can most certainly walk the walk and talk the talk around both the campuses (and diamond).
A member of the school's inaugural graduating class, he has taken the same courses, played on the same fields, and now years later, continues to give back to the place he has called home for over a quarter of a century.
“Steven truly embodies the spirit that is St. Andrew’s
School,” said Director of Sports Medicine Abby Elliott. “His competitive yet caring nature has been a blessing unto all that know him, and I am personally lucky to call him a great friend.”
As a mentor and coach to countless numbers of families and baseball players, his exceptional efforts were recognized with the awarding of the prestigious Lucy Collins Nazro Faculty Service Award in 2019.
On the admissions front, Steven helps lead prospective families through the application process, creating a professional and warm atmosphere for all.
As a former assistant coach and current head baseball skipper since 2010, he has sent numerous players on to the NCAA level, including three professional baseball players (Sam Selman ‘09, Scott Politz ‘15, and Andrew McInvale ‘15).
When asked, his former players most often agree on the wonderful experience they received with him in their corner.
“I met Steven Garcia for the first time when I was a freshman at SAS, and he was in his first year in the admissions office and helping out with the baseball team; 16 years later he still greets me every time with his big smile and a 'hey buddy,' ” said San Francisco Giants Pitcher Sam Selman ’09. “His office became a safe haven from the school day and a place to unwind and tell jokes or vent about high school. I am so thankful that he took time out of his day to make mine a little better. It is his warm personality and genuine care for people that makes SAS a wonderful place,” he added.
“Coach Garcia has truly been a father figure for me, and someone who continues to have a lasting impact on my life,” added current Haverford College baseball player Chase Samuels ’20.
With Garcia at the helm, more accolades will surely continue to come the school’s way, as well as hopefully some more professional baseball tickets to boot.
