High school volleyball: Joe Ortenzi resigns as Medina coach

MEDINA — Everything points toward the Medina volleyball team being the favorite to win the Greater Cleveland Conference title in the fall. Bees coach Joe Ortenzi, who has built the program for this moment, will not be able to reap the benefits of his hard work. Ortenzi submitted his resignation after six seasons Thursday, citing a desire to spend more time with his wife Julie and their two young daughters. Medina went 14-10 last year, losing to Division I state champion Magnificat in the postseason. "It was a difficult decision, but I'm ready to focus on my family," said Ortenzi, who will continue to teach in the district. "Leaving the program in great shape for whoever takes over was important to me. "I did not want to leave the cupboard bare, and I'm excited to see where the program goes. The Bees are set up for a monster year." Medina has put together back-to-back seasons of at least 14 wins for the first time in 34 years, finishing second in the rugged GCC in 2020 and 2021. The latter was notable as All-Gazette outside hitter Kira Holland did not play after undergoing shoulder surgery. All-Gazette setter/outside hitter Makenzie Schellenberger, Holland, breakthrough talent Aubrey Miranda and emerging middle hitter Emily Piehler will be one of the most formidable offensive quartets in Northeast Ohio. "We really appreciate the time and energy that Coach Ortenzi gave to the program," Medina athletic director Todd Hodkey said. "We understand that family commitments are first and foremost and we wish him the best of luck." Former Penn State club volleyball setter Ortenzi compiled a 69-71 record and a .493 winning percentage that is third in school history behind Jenny Young's .584 (108-77) and Terri Mason's .522 (24-22). His career victory total also ranks third with the Bees. "I'm very happy with what we were able to accomplish with the program," Ortenzi said. "It's come a long way since I took over." Hodkey said the search process for Ortenzi's successor will begin "immediately." Medina has not hired a volleyball coach from outside its district this century and presents a complicated environment for those unfamiliar with its internal dynamics. "I'm very grateful for my coaching staff and thankful for the opportunity that Todd gave me," Ortenzi said. "You have to spend a lot of time and energy on the program — and are always under a microscope. You can't make everyone happy, but try to." Contact Brian Dulik at brisports@hotmail.com. Follow him @BrianDulik on Twitter.