There’s a new energy buzzing through the gym at Independence—and it’s coming from a familiar face.
New head coach Matt Grendel, a 2008 Independence graduate, has returned home to lead the Blue Devils. And when it comes to knowing how to light up the scoreboard, few in school history did it better. Grendel still holds Independence’s all-time marks for most points in a game (46), most in a season (581), and most free throws in a game (23).
After winning 94 games in eight seasons at Riverside, Grendel takes over a program coming off a 16–9 campaign, bringing with him a mix of competitive fire and hometown pride.
“I’ve really enjoyed seeing the commitment and effort our players have shown so far,” Grendel said. “They come in ready to work and compete every day, and that’s been great to see. I’m excited to continue seeing them grow and play hard as we head into the season.”
That effort will be led by a pair of returning starters and a senior-heavy lineup eager to make noise in the Chagrin Valley Conference.
At the top of that list is Matty Jirmasek, a 5’9” senior guard who averaged 12.1 points and 4.1 assists last season while earning All-Ohio honors. Grendel has leaned on him since day one.
“Matty has been a tremendous role model for our program since I first started working with the team over the summer,” he said. “He played a key role in helping me transition into the position and has consistently demonstrated leadership and dedication. Matty is a skilled player who loves to compete, and we’ll be counting on his experience and abilities to help lead us this season.”
Joining him up front is Anderson Jolliffe, a 6’3” junior forward and returning starter who brings toughness and vision to the floor.
“Anderson is a strong, physical player who will play an important role for our team this season,” Grendel said. “He has great vision, does an excellent job finding his teammates, and finishes well around the basket.”
Several seniors are also ready to step up in expanded roles.
Liam Rienerth, a 6’0” forward, “worked hard this offseason,” said Grendel. “His commitment to improving his offensive game has been impressive, and we’re looking forward to seeing his leadership and effort pay off this year.”
Stephen Mlynarczyk returns to the court after a year away and has already impressed his coach.
“Stephen has a great attitude, and we’re excited to have him back playing basketball this season,” Grendel said. “He’s shown a strong commitment to improving his game and is off to a great start.”
Meanwhile, Jakob Jurkiewicz, another senior guard, brings energy and speed to the backcourt.
“Jakob has been very dedicated to improving his game, and we’re excited to see his hard work pay off this season,” said Grendel. “He’s extremely quick, plays with great energy, and will be an important piece for our team.”
The Blue Devils’ depth extends beyond their starters, with several underclassmen ready to contribute.
Bobby Jackson, a sophomore guard, has already made a positive impression on his new coach.
“Bobby loves to compete and plays with great energy,” Grendel said. “He has excellent court vision, finds his teammates well, and finishes effectively around the basket.”
Junior guard Ryan Suhy has also turned heads.
“Ryan has shown tremendous growth over the offseason and is off to a strong start,” Grendel said. “He brings a great attitude, competes at a high level, and we’re looking forward to him being a key contributor for our team this season.”
Sophomore Max DiGeronimo was a consistent presence throughout the offseason, according to Grendel.
“It’s been great to see how much he’s improved in a short time, and we’re excited to see him continue to grow and contribute,” he said.
In the frontcourt, Ryan Mack and Jaden Sawyer, both upperclassmen, bring versatility and effort.
“Ryan has a great attitude and a strong work ethic,” Grendel said. “He’s a great teammate, very coachable, and continues to set a positive example for those around him. Jaden brings athleticism and versatility to our team. We’re looking forward to seeing his continued growth this season.”
Rounding out the roster are several promising sophomores—Levi Sears, Evan McFeely, Jakob Dabrowski, Kameron Grendel, and DJ Howatt—who could see varsity time as the season unfolds.
Grendel knows there will be an adjustment period in year one, but he sees that as an opportunity rather than a setback.
“I would view our main challenge more as an adjustment than an obstacle,” he said. “With this being my first year as the head coach at Independence, there are naturally some changes for both the players and me as we establish expectations and routines. However, the players have demonstrated a strong desire to compete at a high level and have embraced everything we’ve implemented.”
For the Blue Devils, success won’t just be measured in wins—it’ll be about laying the groundwork for sustained excellence.
“Our primary goal for the 2025–2026 season is to work as hard as we can each day to put ourselves in position to compete at a high level,” Grendel said. “We are focused on building a strong culture centered on hard work, accountability, and commitment; one that will not only help us succeed this season but also lay the foundation for long-term success within the program.”
