San Marino High School’s girls’ basketball team has a new coach. Liz Reuter, who has extensive experience in youth basketball, will take over for the season that is due to begin in March, according to the California Interscholastic Federation’s pandemic-altered schedule.
“Coach Reuter comes to San Marino with an extensive background working with youth and high school athletes,” said David Irie, SMHS’ director of athletics. “In addition, she has a tremendous background in assisting the athletic department in logistic responsibilities. These experiences will make her a tremendous asset to our girls’ program and the San Marino community.”
Since 2017, Reuter has worked with youth athletes from 3rd to 8th grade, with Cali Rise in Burbank and the Los Angeles Silver Stars in Pacific Palisades. Concurrently, she has also worked as the head junior varsity coach and the lead varsity assistant at Providence High School in Burbank. During that time, the Pioneers reached the CIF Southern Section semifinals in 2011, 2013 and 2017. In 2011, Reuter assisted Providence in reaching the Southern California regional semifinals in the state playoffs. In addition to many league championships, Reuter has been a part of a program that has featured numerous all-league and all-CIF players.
Providence head coach Andrew Bencze said Reuter was “vital in creating a family culture and atmosphere of success. Coach Reuter was a vital part of their success and will be now the leader in creating a successful program at San Marino High School.”
Reuter also has experience as the assistant to the athletic director and has a background in operating and maintaining websites and social media accounts. In addition, she was instrumental in helping organize and hosting various tournaments and games at Providence.
Reuter replaces Annie Yee, who after five years at San Marino High School accepted a full-time teaching position at Palisades High School. Under Yee, the Titans had their best season in 2017-18, when they advanced to the CIF quarterfinals.
Reuter is excited for the new opportunity and season.
“I have met the girls through Zoom and I also have them in a P.E. class, so it has been great to get to know them,” Reuter said. “We have three seniors — Chloe Wong, Isabella Tse and Emily Ting — and I will be counting on them for experience and leadership. I can’t wait to return to in-person basketball. I am taking the approach of getting 1% better every day.”
Irie feels that Reuter’s specific experience will benefit the SMHS girls’ program.
“Coach Reuter has been able to refine her skills teaching younger players the fundamentals of basketball,” said Irie. “By having a qualified coach work with these youths, many future high school athletes have been given the background upon which to build. As the new head coach, she will bring this skill set in working with our players and building a bridge with youth players in San Marino.”
