April 21, 2026
Marlington High School is proud to announce, pending Board approval, Clay Libertore as the new Head Coach of the Lady Dukes Basketball program. A familiar face within the district, Libertore brings nine years of coaching experience and a deep-rooted commitment to the Marlington community to his new leadership role.
Libertore has been an integral part of the Marlington Local Schools professional staff since 2019. After serving four years as an Intervention Specialist at the high school, he transitioned into his current role as the Career Based Intervention Coordinator. His coaching background is defined by a “player-first” mentality, focusing on skill development, accountability, and the development of student athletes—traits that align perfectly with the mission of the athletic department.
“Coach Libertore embodies the values we look for in a leader for our student-athletes,” said Athletic Director Scott Stayer. “His experience as an educator within our building gives him a unique advantage in building relationships and monitoring the academic and personal growth of our players. He understands the ‘Marlington Way’ and has a clear vision for the future of the Lady Dukes.”
A 2018 graduate of the University of Mount Union with a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Libertore recently earned his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education in 2024. His coaching resume includes nine years of basketball and football experience, along with two years in track and field, during which he mentored under veteran head coaches to master the nuances of varsity athletic programming.
Libertore’s coaching philosophy centers on a team-centered approach with a daily emphasis on fundamentals and effort. His blueprint for the program includes:
Vertical Integration: Growing the youth programs to ensure long-term sustainability.
Holistic Development: Focusing on basketball IQ, individual skill work, and character leadership.
Community Pride: Building a culture that reflects the pride and spirit of the Marlington community.
“I am honored and proud to lead the Lady Dukes program,” said Libertore. “My goal is to build a culture of accountability and teamwork where our athletes become confident, responsible leaders both on and off the court. We will be a program built on hard work, passion and being together. Our goal is to put a product on the floor that the Marlington community can be proud of.”
