Coach DJ Damazo

DJ Damazo '13 continues his love for basketball as head coach of Division III university

After spending four years on the court at Geneva, DJ Damazo ’13 has continued his love for basketball, now as a coach.  DJ remembers his time at Geneva fondly, having met his wife Kristland (McCracken) ’13, at Geneva and encourages others to continue their involvement with the College.

Now, DJ is the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at the University of Valley Forge (Philadelphia). He also serves as an assistant in the Vice President of Academic Affairs Office. Ironically, when he got hurt during basketball, he suffered two concussions and was out for over a year. During this time, the Lord really challenged him— this is when DJ realized he wanted to coach college basketball.

DJ says, “being in a profession that is so results-driven, I think it is easy to lose track of the big picture and to find your worth in your wins or losses. As we are rebuilding the program here, God is really teaching me to rely on Him and to also see the bigger picture of helping our guys strengthen their relationship with Him.”

He is so thankful for the role that Geneva College played in his life. He not only met his wife at Geneva, but also some of his best friends, and really grew in his relationship with the Lord at Geneva. He says, “many of my classmates and friends at Geneva would share this sentiment, as well. I highly encourage others to stay involved and invest in Geneva so that future students can have similar experiences.”

Through his journey at Geneva, DJ enjoyed the godly and humble instruction of professors Todd Allen, John Gallo, and Stephanie Schindel. Also shaping him into the man he is today, was Coach Jeff Santasiero. The biggest thing he learned at Geneva is how to apply the Gospel to every area of your life. DJ shares, “often we think the Gospel is simply a message of Salvation. While it is certainly that, Geneva taught me that the Gospel should be applied to all areas of life, including your career. This has helped me tremendously.”