JARETH DANDRIDGE

Born in Martinsville, Virginia, Coach Jareth Dandrige’s passion for basketball ignited at the age of 8 when he led his team to victory in the 8U Virginia EYBL State Championship. This early success fueled his dedication to the sport throughout his time at Martinsville High School, where he played a pivotal role in securing back-to-back Virginia State Championships in 2015 and 2016.

Following high school, Jareth earned a scholarship to Bluefield College, where he initially pursued football as a wide receiver. In his first season, he ranked second on the team in receiving yardage, showcasing his athletic versatility. However, his enduring love for basketball prompted him to make the significant decision to transition back to the sport he cherished. He graduated with a degree in Graphic Communications and has since gained diverse professional experience while remaining committed to basketball.

Jareth's leadership abilities have been evident through his involvement in youth basketball camps and coaching his first recreational basketball team in 2023. That same year, he connected with Russell Scott and joined the Excell organization, where he currently serves as the head coach for the 7th-grade girls' team. Since becoming a part of the Excel team in the summer of 2023, Jareth has been dedicated to inspiring the next generation of basketball players, seamlessly integrating his professional pursuits with his lifelong passion for the sport.