Lehigh Valley legendary, Hall of Fame softball coach has announced his retirement (original) (raw)
Barry Search, who led Parkland High School’s softball team to a state championship in 2015 and was inducted into the Lehigh Valley Softball Hall of Fame in 2019, has announced his retirement.
Search, who became the Trojans’ head coach in 2010 after serving as Glen Ray’s assistant from 1990 to 2009, went 289-84 in a storied career that included seven conference championships, five district titles and two appearances in the state finals, including the PIAA title in 2015.
“Over a decades long career, Coach Search has built a program defined not only by wins but by character, resilience, and community,” said Parkland athletic director Andy Stephens in a school release. “Under his leadership, countless athletes were developed on and off the field, carrying lessons of teamwork, discipline, and integrity far beyond the game.”
Search, 78, is a retired Parkland science teacher. He was also an assistant football coach at the school from 1975 to 2021. He was also a fire chief with the Woodlawn Fire Department and was honored for his 50 years of service as a volunteer firefighter.
At Woodlawn’s annual banquet, Search received a citation from the state House, and Rep. Mike Scholossberg said, “If you know Barry, you know how kind and generous he is. We are fortunate for all he does in the community.”
In a Facebook post, South Whitehall Township commissioner Diane Kelly said of Search, “For 50 years, he has dedicated himself to serving our township with courage, commitment and an unwavering sense of duty. Chief Search has answered countless calls, stood steady in moments of crisis and helped protect the lives and property of our community. His years of service as Chief reflect not only his experience, but the trust, respect and confidence placed in him by his fellow firefighters and our community.”
That selfless commitment to the community was a big part of Parkland’s softball success.
“Coach Search’s impact reaches well beyond the scoreboard,” Stephens said. “He has been a mentor and role model to generations of students, inspiring excellence in athletics, academics, and life. Their commitment to fostering a positive and competitive environment has left a lasting legacy within the school and the broader community.”
Stephens closed the release by saying, “The school and athletic department extend their deepest gratitude to Coach Search for his years of service, leadership and unwavering dedication. His influence will continue to be felt for years to come.”
Search’s final team this spring finished 9-13, 8-8 in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference.
The Trojans beat East Stroudsburg South 11-8 in the first round of the District 11 6A tournament on May 18.
After the game, which proved to be his final victory, Search talked about the likely end of his career, saying it was time to spend more time with his family, particularly his wife, Ruth. He expressed appreciation for all of the kids he coached and the coaches he worked with, and said of the 2026 squad, “I’m really proud and happy for them because they battle and today, they finished the game and they avenged a previous loss. They gave us everything they had and that’s all you can ask.”