Needham High Coach Named July 4 Grand Marshall

Teaching and coaching soccer may well prepare one of Needham High's long-serving faculty for a new job: parade grand marshall.

The Club named head varsity coach Don Brock the grand marshall, according to an announcement from the Exchange Club. Brock is on his 46th year teaching Math at the High School, and his 54th coaching soccer. He was also made head of the Math department 13 years ago. 

The Grand Marshall of the parade last year was former State Representative Lida Harkins. In 2011, that honor was split between two returning military men.

From the announcement: 

As a teacher and a coach, Don Brock influenced his student athletes in many ways.  They not only succeeded while on his teams but also as they moved on from Needham HS. When speaking with Brock, he explains how soccer remains a part of the lives of many of his former athletes, even after they graduate and are no longer part of his team. He believes that soccer, or any sport for that matter, has a way of influencing one’s life.  

Details and schedules for the parade are still being finalized. 

Brock was also honored at the end of last year by the .