When a program hires a new coach, there's no endorsement quite like one from a former star player who knows the game—and the man—inside and out. That's exactly what the Logansport Berries' boys basketball program received as they welcome new head coach Haden Deaton, with a ringing approval from former Logansport standout and Deaton's former Grace College teammate, Matt Jennings.

"I think Haden's going to do a great job. He's the man for the job," Jennings stated emphatically. Reflecting on the program's evolution, he noted, "A lot has changed over the last decade since I graduated—different coaches, a conference change. We're in a completely different place now. But I can't think of a better person to lead this program into the future than Haden."

Jennings also highlighted a crucial, often unseen, element of coaching success: a strong support system. "A lot of the great coaches I've been around have had great partners by their side. Haden's wife, Haley, who also works for the school, is that perfect person to support him through the challenges ahead. I'm really excited for the program's future."

The topic of partnership is particularly timely for Jennings, who is set to marry fellow Logansport graduate Sophia Rozzi this Friday. This personal milestone coincides with a significant professional commitment, as he is now the owner and lead financial advisor at Workman & Associates in Logansport.

These new responsibilities, Jennings explained, are why he had to decline an invitation from Deaton to join the coaching staff as an assistant. "As much as I would love to be part of what he's building, the timing just doesn't work," he said. "When I commit to something, I'm all in. With my upcoming marriage and running the firm, I'd be one foot in, one foot out, and that wouldn't be fair to Haden, the other coaches, or the players."

While he's ruling it out for now, Jennings hasn't closed the door on coaching forever. The connection between Jennings and Deaton runs deep, forged from high school rivalry—with Jennings at Logansport and Deaton at McCutcheon—into college camaraderie as teammates and roommates at Grace. That shared history makes Jennings's confidence in Deaton's leadership a powerful signal for the Berries' next chapter.