Zalma coach, AD bolts for Puxico

Zalma boy's basketball coach Bryant Fernetti shouts instructions to his team during a game earlier in his career.

Southeast Missourian file

The Zalma and Puxico boy’s basketball and baseball programs will have new leadership for the 2021-22 school year, as Bulldog coach and athletic director Bryant Fernetti announced on social media that he is leaving the Bulldogs to guide the basketball and baseball programs for the Indians.

“I want to first say thank you to Zalma for taking a chance on me eight years ago,” Fernetti posted, “and allowing me to get my teaching degree.”

Fernetti got off to a rough start in the 2013-14 basketball season, as Zalma won just one game and lost 20. However, he quickly turned the program around, as it won 11, 14, 13, and 12 games over the next four seasons.

“I also want to thank all of the players that have worked hard for me over the past eight years,” Fernetti continued, “and for those who supported me through the time.

“The kids don’t know how much I care and love them!”

Zalma has struggled through recent seasons on the basketball court.

The Bulldogs won six games in the 2018-19 season, followed by five and nine in each of the past two seasons.

“I am looking forward to this next chapter of my life,” Fernetti posted. “I believe this is all part of God’s plan for my family and I am really looking forward to working at Puxico in a community that really supports their school and sports and the Stoddard County Conference.”

The Zalma baseball squad is currently 1-4 under Fernetti and hosts Richland on Wednesday at 4:30 p.m.

The Bulldogs have won a combined 15 games on the diamond over the past two seasons.