Troy Powell has been hired as the new head varsity basketball coach at Apache Junction High School, 2525 S. Ironwood Drive in Apache Junction. Powell will also teach social studies.

Prior to being hired at AJHS, Powell was the head basketball coach at Westwood High School in Mesa.

Powell said he is looking forward to being a part of the community and working together with students and staff to build up the AJHS athletics program.

“My coaching philosophy is to first teach life lessons that will help develop young men into contributors of society,” said Powell. “On a basketball level I believe teaching the game with the three E’s — Effort, Energy and Enthusiasm. Our coaching staff will model this approach to life on an everyday basis, and you will see that product on the floor.”

In addition to his love of sports and teaching, Powell said he enjoys reading, listening to positive reggae music and traveling. His wanderlust augments his appreciation of other places and cultures and fuels his enthusiasm for teaching social studies.

“I love to learn about the world through travel,” Powell added.

Powell also said he is very excited to be doing what he loves — teaching and coaching— and begin his new adventure with AJHS.

Apache Junction High School emphasizes a well-rounded education where academics, sports and extracurricular activities allow students to grow scholastically, physically and emotionally. AJHS graduates have access to more scholarships per student than in most communities in the Valley and qualifying students have access to Promise for the Future to earn a tuition-free education at Central Arizona College.

Registration for all new students who wish to enroll in Apache Junction Unified School District schools are currently being accepted at all school locations. For more information about AJUSD or its schools or departments visit ajusd.org.