Deane Bozeman School Welcomes Austin Laatsch as New Basketball Coach

Tommy Oliver Stadium, Panama City, FL, USA - Exciting changes are brewing at Deane Bozeman School as the institution welcomes Austin Laatsch as the new head boys basketball coach. Laatsch, who has a solid background in basketball coaching and a passion for player development, replaces Matt Granville, who concluded his six-season tenure with an impressive record of 81-40. Laatsch’s appointment, announced on June 9, 2025, has sparked enthusiasm among players and supportive fans alike.

Principal Ivan Beach expressed his optimism about Laatsch stepping into this pivotal role. He noted, „Austin’s dedication to player development is commendable.“ Indeed, Laatsch is set to establish a culture of growth, accountability, and teamwork within the program. His experience at Jackson Preparatory School and Bay High School ensures he brings a wealth of knowledge, which Athletic Director Andrew Halford recognizes as key to student-athlete success.

The Path Ahead

As Laatsch gears up to meet the players this week, he aims to instill a renewed commitment to discipline, effort, and integrity. Having played at Spain Park High School and later at Delta State University and the University of Montevallo, he approaches coaching not just as a job, but as a way to mold young lives through sport.

The recent one-day youth football camp at Tommy Oliver Stadium in Panama City is a testament to the vibrant sports culture within the community, highlighted by the remarkable presence of former Rutherford and FSU star Javien Elliot. Events like these reflect how crucial sports activities are in fostering community spirit and healthy engagement among the youth, much like Laatsch’s upcoming coaching journey.

Thriving with Activities

Beyond basketball, Deane Bozeman School boasts a variety of extracurricular activities. Their programs, ranging from the National Honor Society to the impressive Band Program, engage over 200 students and are noted for receiving accolades since the school’s inception in 2000. The Band Program has made a name for itself, earning the Florida Bandmasters Association’s Otto J. Kraushaar Award and being designated a GRAMMY Award Signature School in 2015.

Involvement in such activities is crucial to student development. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), high school activity programs foster pride in schools and communities, teaching important skills like teamwork and self-discipline. Participation contributes significantly to better academic performance, exemplifying how academic missions and co-curricular activities go hand in hand. Schools with robust extracurricular offerings often see improved attendance and lower dropout rates.

Looking Towards the Future

Laatsch’s vision for the basketball team aligns with these broader educational benefits. By instilling values through sports, Laatsch will help students cultivate critical skills that extend beyond the basketball court. The NFHS highlights how participation in high school activities is linked to positive post-high school outcomes, such as higher rates of college attendance and civic engagement.

As Deane Bozeman School embarks on this new chapter, the community can look forward to witnessing not just a basketball team in action, but a thriving program that contributes to the development of healthy, engaged citizens. There’s something to be said for the power of sports and activities in shaping well-rounded individuals—something Laatsch is poised to champion as he takes the reins.

For updates on Laatsch’s journey and other activities, interested parties can check out the school’s activities page here, or read more on the case for high school activities by visiting NFHS.