Athletics at Maryvale

Telia Marks begins first year as Maryvale’s Athletic Director
By Nelson Coffin

Having played basketball at an advanced level at Marietta (Ga.) High School, the University of Virginia and professionally in Europe, Telia Marks knows what it’s like to give her best athletic effort.

That background already has served her well in a career that also includes stints as the director of operations at the Quinnipiac University and the recruiting assistant for the University of Iowa women's basketball teams.

Moreover, before succeeding Teri Moeser as the new Maryvale Preparatory School Athletic Director on July 1, Marks was an assistant AD at Miss Porter’s School (Conn.) and the Athletic Director at Miss Hall’s School (Mass.)

With that experience under her belt, Marks has the wherewithal to figure out the best way to keep the Lions’ 43 middle and upper school teams running smoothly.

Noting that she has family ties to Baltimore, Marks said she was excited to apply for the job at another all-girls’ school once she noticed the job opening on the IAAM website.

“I’m at the point in my career where I really want to settle down,” Marks said, noting she has three children ranging in ages from nine to three. “And Maryvale really stood out to me. It’s a school that has figured out how to attract some really good athletes.”

After claiming 43 IAAM championships, Maryvale athletes will be hoping to increase that number when conference play begins in earnest next month under Marks’ watch.

To that end, the Lions’ B Conference soccer squad will get the ball rolling for the school’s varsity teams by hosting St. Paul’s School for Girls of the A Conference on Sept. 4 at 4:15 p.m.

However, before the fall season begins in earnest, Marks will continue building relationships at her new school.

"It has been a pleasure to get to know Telia these past two months,”  said former lacrosse coach Jessica Vitrano Randisi, the current Head of Student Life and Community Engagement/ Dean of Students at her alma mater. “She is a hard worker, who is compassionate and thoughtful. I am excited about Maryvale athletics and their future under her."

“I feel really fortunate to be a part of this team,” Marks said about her new job.

When Marks was part of basketball teams in high school and college, those teams were very fortunate to have her on their side.

For instance, in a Georgia Class AAAAA semifinal in her senior year, she produced 30 points and ripped down 14 rebounds in a 58-40 triumph over Alfred E. Beach High School.

At UVa., Marks led the Cavaliers in rebounding while averaging a solid 8.3 points per game as a senior.