Riverhead hires Brian Fenton as varsity boys basketball coach

When Brian Fenton’s college basketball career ended at St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue in 2007, coaching was the next best option. He wanted to stay close to the game he loved and pass that passion on to others.

Fenton landed a coaching job at St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset for two years before accepting an assistant coach job at St. Anthony’s in Huntington. After coaching there for six years, he stepped away from coaching for a few years before starting the East End Hawks, a travel basketball program.

But taking over a high school program was a dream. When Riverhead posted a varsity basketball coaching vacancy, Fenton felt like he had to apply. It was his shot.

Last week, Riverhead Athletic Director Melissa Edwards made it official: Fenton will coach the Blue Waves’ varsity basketball team.

“I was also a referee these past few years, and I reffed some of Riverhead’s games,” Fenton said. “I love what they’re building here. I think they have some great players to build around and thought it would be a great landing spot for me.”

Edwards, hired last year, said Fenton stood out as the right person for the job after they met.

“I was impressed by his passion for coaching. His vision and understanding of the work necessary to build a strong, sustainable program was evident,” she said. “He recognizes that success begins long before the student-athletes reach the varsity level, and he’s committed to strengthening the connection between our youth and high school programs while emphasizing player development, accountability, and character both on and off the court.”

Fenton takes over for Pat Fabian, who had success in his two years leading the program. He took over a 3-16 team and led the Blue Waves to the playoffs in his first season and even won a playoff game. Last year, unfortunately, the team finished 6-14 and missed the playoffs.

Fabian then stepped away to spend more time with his newborn son and later took an assistant coaching job at Eastport-South Manor.

“Look, I want to win,” Fenton said. “I’m not coming here to lose games. We’re going to be a hardworking group of kids. That I can promise you. We’re going to build the youth programs, and we’re going to produce great basketball players. I’m committed to developing every kid that comes through my doors.”

Riverhead point guard Anaiis Mitchell returns after averaging 8.3 points per game. Mitchell has started at point guard since his freshman season. Landon Zaleski also returns after averaging 11.2 points per game.

“Those are two names I was already aware of,” Fenton said. “I’m going to have to rely on those seniors to build up this nucleus again. I’m going to get them to the next level. I expect those two to have great seasons.”

The first open gym will be this week, and Fenton is looking forward to meeting all the guys and seeing what they can do.

“I’m not the type of coach that tries to force my style of play on players,” Fenton said. “I want to see how they play and what they can do, and my job as a coach is to put them in the best position to succeed, and that’s by catering to their strengths. I’m looking forward to building a bond these guys can trust, and that’s the only way we will find success.”

Riverhead opens its season with a non-league game against Center Moriches on Dec. 1.