New Head Football Coach Named For Derby High School

DERBY, CT — Derby High School announced this week the appointment of Stone Belzo as the new head coach for its football program.

According to a news release provided by Derby Public Schools, Belzo brings an outstanding record of achievement as both a player and a coach.

A former standout athlete at Middletown High School, he earned all-state honors twice and all-conference recognition three times while excelling at quarterback and strong safety, according to the district.

He went on to play at Springfield College, where he also launched his coaching career as a student assistant.

According to the announcement, Belzo has built extensive experience across multiple levels of football over the past eight years.

He has served as defensive coordinator and secondary coach at both Middletown High School and New Britain High School.

His resume also includes professional coaching with the Idaho Horsemen of the AWFC Professional Indoor Football League, as well as international experience with the Langenthal Invaders in Europe, according to the district.

According the announcement, Belzo is widely respected for his leadership, discipline, and commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field.

He emphasizes fundamentals, teamwork, and mental toughness while fostering a positive, accountable team culture, according to the district.

"Under his guidance, players consistently grow in technical skill, physical conditioning, and confidence, with many advancing to higher levels of competition," the release reads. "His coaching philosophy centers on hard work, resilience, and strong character."

Belzo expressed his enthusiasm for the role.

"I'm beyond excited for the opportunity to lead the Derby football program," Belzo said in a news release. "Derby High School has a rich history and a proud football tradition. I'm committed to building this program on toughness, discipline, and relentless effort. My goal is to help our student-athletes grow not only on the field, but in life. Our athletes will find success by being challenged every day to become the best version of themselves being goal-oriented, finding solutions instead of excuses, learning accountability, and focusing on the only two things we can control: our attitude and our effort. Thank you to everyone in the Derby community who has embraced me with open arms and trusts the vision and mission I have for this program."

Athletic Director Jenn Moffat emphasized the school believes Belzo is the right leader for the program.

"We are thrilled to welcome Coach Belzo as the new leader of our football program," Moffat said in a news release. "His experience, energy, and dedication to student success make him an outstanding choice to guide our student-athletes and build a strong future for Derby football."

District leadership also voiced strong support for the appointment. The Derby Board of Education welcomed Belzo to the Derby school system.

"It is with a great deal of pride and enthusiasm that the Derby Board of Education welcomes Stone Belzo to the Derby School System as our new head football coach," Board of Education Chairman Ken Marcucio said in a news release. "Stone is a very energetic and young coach whom we are expecting to do great things as our head football coach, working with our athletes in the football program. I believe there will be a productive relationship between the players and their new coach. We wish Stone luck in striving to make Derby a great football program again."

Superintendent Matthew Conway Jr. also highlighted the anticipated positive impact on the school community.

"We are excited to welcome Coach Stone Belzo to the Derby family," Conway said in a news release. "Derby football has a rich tradition, and we are thrilled for Coach Belzo to lead the next chapter. His commitment to student-athlete growth, strong relationships, and program pride, make him an excellent fit for our community. We look forward to the positive impact he will have on our players, school culture, and the entire Derby community."

District officials also noted the Derby High School community looks forward to "the leadership, vision, and enthusiasm Coach Belzo will bring as he takes the helm of the program."