Seton Catholic Prep Principal Victor Serna and Athletic Director Jim Shewbridge have made a joint announcement about their choice as the next Sentinels football coach.

Matt Hanshaw joins Seton Catholic with more than a decade of coaching experience, including what a news release states was a successful eight years at 6A Pinnacle in north Phoenix.

During his time with the Pioneers, Hanshaw served as varsity offensive coordinator, assistant head coach and running backs coach. The varsity had four post-season appearances that included a 6A runner-up finish in 2022.

Prior to that, Hanshaw was head junior varsity and freshman coach and offensive coordinator. The Pinnacle JV had two undefeated seasons.

Hanshaw is a credentialed educator who attended Methodist University in North Carolina, completing his post-baccalaureate studies and credentialing at East Carolina University, the release states.

“I am excited to welcome Coach Hanshaw and his staff in support of our mission and student-athletes,” Serna stated in the news release. “His philosophy, vision and values align well with Seton’s, and I am confident in his ability to lead our football program.”

Shewbridge said working with 6A players headed for a national stage is the kind of experience that will benefit the Sentinels.

“Matt brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from working with some of the top athletes in the state at Pinnacle,” Shewbridge said. “He brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm to our football program and is looking forward to working with the Seton Catholic community.”

Hanshaw comes over from a Pinnacle program that produced current NFL quarterback Spencer Rattler and many successful FBS college players.

The Sentinels went 4-7 in 2025 and were 1-4 in the 3A Metro Region under coach Pete Wahlheim, bowing out of the 3A playoffs in the first round. They went 8-3 in 2024.

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