Cardinal Mooney High School has made a historic hire, naming Amanda Boswell as its new girls' basketball head coach—marking the first time a woman will lead the program.
Boswell, officially introduced on April 20, didn't wait for the official offer to start building her vision. While still awaiting the call, she was already mapping out a plan to turn the Cougars into a perennial state contender, focusing on culture, standards, and long-term success.
"I'm not just looking to be a basketball coach here," Boswell said. "A lot of coaches want to step into a program that's already built. But I'm here to build a legacy—something that lasts beyond X's and O's."
With 17 years of coaching experience—most of it through travel programs like Tampa Thunder—Boswell brings a proven track record of player development. She has helped more than 70 athletes earn college basketball scholarships across Division I, II, and III levels.
Originally from northern Virginia, Boswell has deep ties to Cardinal Mooney. She previously connected with former head coach Rico Antonio and has coached several Cougars players through her travel organization. When the opportunity to lead a high school program arose, she knew exactly what she was looking for.
"I wanted the right fit—faith, academics, the kind of families Cardinal Mooney attracts, and a commitment to competitive athletics. This school checks every box," Boswell said.
She takes over a program that reached new heights under Marlon Williams, who led the Cougars to their first FHSAA Class 3A state championship in March 2025—their fifth state appearance overall. This season, Cardinal Mooney finished 16-14, falling to Lake Highland Prep in the Class 3A-Region 2 semifinals.
Boswell plans to run the program like a college operation, emphasizing an up-tempo style that pushes the pace and keeps opponents on their heels. For the Cougars and their growing fanbase, the future looks fast—and bright.
