Coach Phillip White brings a wealth of experience and a passion for developing student-athletes, both on and off the court, to Berwick Academy. A graduate of Oak Grove High School in San Jose, California, Coach White’s basketball journey is deeply rooted in his commitment to teamwork, leadership, and personal growth. His coaching career has allowed him to impact the lives of young athletes, helping them grow into strong teammates, leaders, and the best versions of themselves.
Now in his first year as head coach at Berwick, Coach White is excited to instill the team’s culture and values through their motto: "WE PLAY HARD. WE RESPECT THE GAME. WE ARE GREAT TEAMMATES." This philosophy emphasizes giving 100% in everything, whether it's in class, during practice, or in games. He teaches his players to respect the game, their opponents, and the Berwick community, while also mentoring younger players and building a supportive environment where no one walks alone.
Coach White's coaching inspiration comes from his father, Loren White, who coached his sons in various sports, regardless of his own experience. Loren’s lessons on preparation, perseverance, and hard work have shaped Coach White's approach to coaching, as he now expects the same dedication from his players while also showing care for them as individuals.
One of Coach White’s favorite memories from his coaching career comes from 2008, when he led a team that defied expectations. Though they weren’t considered the most athletically talented team, they bonded and worked together to reach the CIF-CCS Division 2 Championship game. This experience solidified his belief in the power of teamwork and perseverance, and he looks forward to creating similar experiences with his Berwick players.
Coach White encourages his athletes to recognize that “players are made in the off-season.” He advises them to put in the extra effort on their own time, focusing on improving their skills, being great teammates, and setting goals. His mantra is clear: "Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard."
When it’s game time, you might catch Coach White and his team getting energized with "Bring Em Out" by T.I., a fitting song to set the tone for their high-energy play.