NEWFIELD, NY (607NewsNow) — Andrew Mendel, a junior football player at Ithaca College, has made history as the youngest head coach in New York State history.
Despite being 20 years old, Mendel is no stranger to coaching. He started at just 17, coaching his high school’s junior varsity boys’ basketball team while playing on the varsity team himself.
“I had an itch for it [coaching] and an ability to lead. I get asked a lot how I keep my drive for coaching while handling academics and athletics, and the answer is that I love what I do. I love coaching, I sometimes can’t sleep at night because I’m so excited about being able to do what I love,” says Mendel.
Mendel’s first game as Newfield’s head coach was a memorable one, his mother, father, brother, and 50 of his Ithaca College football teammates showing up in the stands to support him and the team. The full circle moment indicated to Mendel that his passion for coaching has shown through.
“I genuinely care about the relationships I form with my players, that’s the most important part about coaching, that’s my strength. To be able to watch my team step onto the court with confidence at that first game knowing that we mutually believe in and have faith in one another was a really important moment for me.”
On and off the court, Mendel wants to inspire his players to get 1% better every day. Teaching the right attitude is where his philosophy starts.
“I really believe attitude is everything. It’s a choice you make every day when you wake up, and it’s something I try to live by. That’s the foundation of our program, who you are matters. It’s the little things; opening a door, saying thank you to a lunch lady, you never know how much that can mean to someone. I truly believe when you lead with your character and your attitude, the goals you have in life become a lot more achievable.”
Currently in the offseason, Mendel will return as head coach of the Newfield varsity boys basketball team for the 2026-27 season. Learn more about his journey to head coach on the Ithaca College website here.
All photos courtesy of Andrew Mendel.
