After an illustrious 25-year career, Rye girls’ basketball coach Mary Henwood is retiring, but will remain in her job as RMS physical education teacher. Coach Henwood built an impressive girls basketball program in both quantitative and qualitative ways accumulating many league titles, as well as section and regional championships. She also fostered important and ongoing relationships in the Rye community as well as interscholastically. Perhaps the most memorable accomplishment of all was her 300th win, which came early in the 2009-2010 season. She ended her career with 336 wins and 185 losses.
By Melanie Cane
After an illustrious 25-year career, Rye girls’ basketball coach Mary Henwood is retiring, but will remain in her job as RMS physical education teacher. Coach Henwood built an impressive girls basketball program in both quantitative and qualitative ways accumulating many league titles, as well as section and regional championships. She also fostered important and ongoing relationships in the Rye community as well as interscholastically. Perhaps the most memorable accomplishment of all was her 300th win, which came early in the 2009-2010 season. She ended her career with 336 wins and 185 losses.
Henwood has coached 18 Academic All-American players, four Con Edison winners, four 1,000-plus point players, and numerous New York State Scholar Athlete teams. Athletic Director Rob Castagna called Henwood one of the most modest individuals he has ever worked with. He worked closely with her for a decade before discovering what an accomplished athlete she was in her own right at Eastchester High School and Hofstra University. “Coach Henwood has given nothing less than her very best for the past 25 years,’’ Castagna said. “She is an incredible teacher, coach, friend, leader, advocate, and mentor to all of the students under her direction.”
To honor her legacy, Castagna created the Mary Henwood Outstanding Female Athlete Award, presented to a senior player who is athletic, passionate, caring, and above all, modest.
“This is our way to always remember the success and contributions which you have labored since you first stepped foot into the Rye gymnasium and the Rye athletic fields,’’ Castagna said. “The list is impressive and it reflects your inner drive and work ethic.”
The first recipient of the Mary Henwood award was Tori Virtue. Virtue was a three-sport varsity athlete who has excelled in field hockey, track, and lacrosse.
Henwood said she’s grateful to parents, the administration and, of course, her players. “Rye is such a special place and being a part of the Garnet Community, which represents the heart and soul of giving and receiving, is the best thing any coach can ask for.”
