Longtime Basketball Coach Brian Ferris Steps Down

HAMBURG, N.Y. — Athletic Director Steve Otremba ’90 announced that St. Francis High School Head Basketball Coach Brian Ferris ’00 has stepped down from his position after 13 seasons leading the Red Raiders program.

A St. Francis alumnus, Ferris began his coaching career at the school in 2007 at the junior varsity level. He served as the varsity team’s top assistant coach from 2008 to 2012 under longtime head coach Ed Hoak before being named head coach in 2013.

When reflecting on his time at St. Francis, Ferris said, “"Coaching Basketball at my alma mater for the past 19 years has been the honor of a lifetime. It was more than a career; it was a vocation. I am forever grateful to Coach Hoak for taking a chance on me as a 24-year-old, and to Coach Otremba, the administration, and my coaching staff for their years of partnership. Most importantly, I want to thank the players. You gave your all to me and to St. Francis, and watching you grow as men has been my greatest reward. The timing is right for my family and the program to begin a new chapter, but I will always carry the pride of being a Red Raider with me."

During his tenure, Ferris compiled 154 career victories and established the Red Raiders as a consistent contender in Western New York. His teams were regularly ranked among the region’s Top 10 large schools, highlighted by a Monsignor Martin High School Athletic Association regular season championship in 2017 and a No. 2 overall ranking in Western New York that same season.

Ferris also emphasized player development throughout his career, coaching three student-athletes who surpassed the 1,000-point milestone, including 2026 graduate Andrew Lindstrom this past season.

“Coach Ferris’ dedication and commitment to our basketball program have been exceptional,” said Otremba. “He helped restore the program as a consistent contender in one of the toughest leagues in Western New York. His passion for his players was evident throughout his tenure. We are grateful for his leadership and the impact he has had on our student-athletes and school community.

“I am thankful to have been part of his journey and to see him grow as both a coach and a family man,” Otremba added. “This was not an easy decision, and he will always be a true Red Raider. We wish him nothing but the best in what lies ahead.”