Falchi returns as TCA coach

One of the most decorated local basketball coaches is returning to the sideline.

Fred Falchi is back as head coach of the Trenton Catholic Academy boys program, the school’s athletic department announced Thursday.

Falchi previously stepped down in December of 2018 for health reasons after compiling 366 wins in more than 18 seasons, including three Mercer County Tournament titles, three Non-Public B South Tournament sectional titles, one Non-Public B state title and the 2010 Tournament of Champions title.

Falchi also resigned for one year following the 2010-11 season, making this his third stint at the helm of the Iron Mikes.

Eric Elliott, who was head coach for the past two seasons, will stay with the team as associate head coach. Sean Smith and Delmar Glanton will be the assistants.

“Due to changes in the upcoming school year schedule, basketball practice will begin earlier in the day than in previous years,” TCA Athletic Director Giancarlo Riotto said. “Coach Falchi’s retirement from his career as a state employee allows him the flexibility to be at TCA to run practices at their new start time during the basketball season.”

Riotto praised the wealth of knowledge that Falchi and Elliott bring to the program.

“If you talk with anyone who has played for Coach Falchi, or has worked with him, you will hear about his ability to coach and get the most out of student-athletes,” Riotti said. “Our athletic programs set a high standard for our student-athletes, and Coach Falchi’s and Coach Elliott’s coaching styles align with our vision on how to build a successful program.”

Falchi coached two former NBA players, Malachi Richardson and Charles Cooke, as well as Myles Powell, who as a senior at Seton Hall last season won Big East Player of the Year and the Jerry West Award, given annually to the nation’s top shooting guard.

“I love being part of the TCA family,” Falchi said. “I’m excited to rejoin the coaching staff this season and help the school out in any way that I can.”