The North Atlanta High School community is mourning the sudden loss of a respected educator and coach, Kerry Sarden. Whose death was confirmed by school principal Curtis Douglass in a statement yesterday.
Sarden, who taught health and fitness for over 16 years at the school, was revered not just as a teacher but also as the head coach of the boys' varsity basketball and golf teams, during his tenure he led the basketball team to significant achievements, including a Region Championship and a State Final Four appearance in 2019, the same year he was recognized as the APS coach of the year, a tribute to his dedication and skill.
A distinguished athlete in his own right, Sarden's love for basketball was evident from his early years in Detroit, Michigan, and carried him through to playing for The University of Michigan, then onto Olivet College, where he shined bright on the court, as detailed by FOX 5 Atlanta. His career also spanned overseas where he played in Milan, Italy, before he returned to the U.S. with a focus on coaching, cultivating young talent and inspiring students not only in sports but in life.
The loss has deeply impacted the school, with Douglass stating "This news deeply saddens us, and our thoughts and prayers go out to Coach Sarden’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time," and confirming grief counselors will be available to aid students and staff as they navigate through this sorrowful period; the details of the memorial services, which are yet to be announced, will be shared as they become available, as reported by 11Alive.
Sarden is survived by his wife Joan and his two sons, Dr. Kerry Sarden, Jr. and Kody Sarden, who also graduated from North Atlanta High School during his father's tenure as a coach. Principal Douglass emphasized the importance of community in his statement, saying, "Let us unite as a community and support one another through every phase of this sorrowful time," underscoring the bond forged through shared loss and remembrance.
