The Mars Area School Board voted 7–2 Tuesday night to hire Zachary Benedek as the next head coach of the Mars Area High School football program following a meeting that included public criticism of the hiring process and an unsuccessful motion to delay the decision.
Board member Joe Joswiak made a motion to table the hiring until administrators could further review the selection process. Board member Aaron Rose seconded the motion, but it failed in a 6–3 vote.
After the motion failed, the board proceeded with the hiring vote. Benedek was approved as head coach by a 7–2 vote.
The meeting drew a packed audience that included football players, parents and community members, reflecting the community’s strong interest in the program. Several Mars football players wearing team sweatshirts stood along the back wall of the boardroom as the discussion unfolded.
Three residents spoke during public comment prior to the vote, questioning the hiring process and asking the board to delay the decision so administrators could review how candidates were evaluated.
Benedek replaces Eric Kasperowicz, who resigned from the position earlier this year.
Benedek most recently served as the passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Mt. Lebanon High School, where he also worked as a junior varsity head coach and ninth-grade coach. He previously played quarterback at PennWest Clarion University, where he served as a team captain and was named team MVP, and also began his college career at Saint Francis University.
Speaking with The 228 Times following the meeting, Benedek said he was excited about the opportunity to lead the Mars program and build on its recent success.
“The biggest thing is they’ve had a successful program the last couple of years,” Benedek said. “Coach Kasper did a fantastic job laying the foundation, and I want to continue that and grow that.”
Benedek said his approach to coaching will focus on attention to detail and developing players as individuals beyond football.
“Excellence is a habit,” he said. “Every small decision we make during the day builds who we are as people. Football is a fun game, but I want to help them become better men.”
He added that one of his priorities in the coming weeks will be meeting with players, assistant coaches and members of the community.
Athletic Director Zach Matusak said the district conducted an extensive interview process before selecting Benedek.
“The first round was about 40 minutes, and the second round was about 90 minutes,” Matusak said. “We had candidates demonstrate drills, walk through an entire game week, and discuss game management situations. Zach’s level of detail really separated him.”
Matusak described Benedek as “wise beyond his years” and praised his leadership and character.
“He’s a high-character individual who understands the game and truly cares about developing young men,” Matusak said. “We’re excited about what he’s going to bring to the program.”
Benedek said he understands the expectations that come with leading a program in a football-passionate community.
“Everything that happened tonight came from people who care deeply about the program,” he said. “That passion is what makes high school football special.”
