After 35 seasons of extraordinary leadership, Coach Mark Metropolis has announced his retirement as head coach of the varsity tennis program at St. John’s Prep. A 2010 St. John’s Prep Athletics Hall of Fame inductee, Coach Metropolis leaves behind a record of excellence that is unparalleled in Massachusetts high school tennis and a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
Since taking the helm in 1990, Coach Metropolis has guided the Eagles to six MIAA state championships—including back-to-back titles in his final two seasons—along with six MIAA North Sectional crowns, and an astonishing 31 Catholic Conference championships. His teams compiled a 538–118 record, never endured a losing record and were never beaten in more than seven matches in a single season. Along the way, St. John’s Prep athletes also captured multiple individual state tournament titles under his mentorship. He coached three members of the Prep’s Hall of Fame.
Beyond the numbers, Coach Metropolis is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to the holistic development of his student-athletes. He challenged his players to grow not only as competitors, but also as scholars and leaders, consistently reminding them that tennis was a classroom for life lessons in perseverance, teamwork, and integrity. His passion for the game was matched only by his dedication to teaching values that extend far beyond the court.
“Coach Metropolis embodied the mission of St. John’s Prep in every sense,” said Jameson Pelkey, Director of Athletics. “His impact will be felt for decades, not only in the trophies won and matches played, but in the lives of the countless young men he guided with integrity, humility, and care. His legacy is one of excellence and of living out the values that define our community.”
St. John’s Prep has begun its search for the next head coach to carry forward the strong tradition that Coach Metropolis has built.