POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. - Marist College announced the hiring of Ron Johnson as the new assistant coach for the Marist men's basketball program on Tuesday. Johnson joins the Red Foxes after a decorated coaching career at both the collegiate and high school levels.
"We are excited to have Ron join our family at Marist. He brings a wealth of knowledge and tremendous contacts in recruiting," Martin said. "I am really looking forward to working with Ron."
A 1989 graduate from Barry University in Miami, Johnson still holds the all-time records for scoring and steals at his alma mater. In recognition of his playing success, the university retired his #12 jersey in the fall of 1989. Following his playing career, Johnson quickly transitioned into the coaching ranks as an assistant at Barry.
From Barry, he moved into the high school coaching arena for 20 of the next 22 seasons. During his two-plus decades in high school athletics, Johnson led his teams to over 300 victories and two state titles; in 2001 at The Benjamin School (North Palm Beach, Fl.) and in 2006 at The Cannon School (Concord, N.C.). He has had over 30 student-athletes continue their playing careers at the collegiate level.
Following four years at The Cannon School, Johnson moved back into the collegiate ranks in 2008 as a member of Dennis Felton's staff at the University of Georgia. While in Athens, he was an assistant coach and the program coordinator. His responsibilities included opponent scouting, recruiting, practice instruction, as well as coordinating all on-campus visits for recruits and directing the Dennis Felton Basketball Camps.
Most recently, he was the Head Boys Basketball Coach and Dean of Students at Davidson Day School in Davidson, N.C. While at Davidson, he oversaw and directed the boys basketball program for grades five through 12. As the Dean of Students, he was responsible for all aspects of student life including discipline, attendance, clubs and student government. On the court, he took over a 5-12 program and immediately changed the culture. In his first year, Johnson guided Davidson to a 22-7 record and qualified it for the first of two consecutive State Elite 8 trips. This past season, he guided the team to a 31-4 record, the conference title and a Class 2A State runner-up finish.
"I am anxious and excited to join the Marist College community. Chuck Martin and the staff have done a terrific job in building a solid foundation for Men's Basketball. I look forward to getting more familiar with the Poughkeepsie area and to continuing the work that Coach Martin has started."
