District News

The crack of the bat. The whoosh of the ball.  With some people, sports are in their blood. That is definitely the case with Phil Mahlik, who has accepted the position of Head Baseball Coach at Bernards High School for the 2025-2026 school year.

Mahlik has served as Head Baseball Coach at Bernardsville Middle School for three years, where his team won multiple playoff games and reached the championship in 2022. Prior to that, he coached numerous youth and travel baseball teams. Additionally, Mahlik has coached soccer, tennis, basketball and hockey at the middle school and high school levels. His leadership and experience, coupled with core values, have resulted in a coaching philosophy built around developing relationships and emphasizing hard work, trust, and passion for the game.

Raised in Bernardsville and currently residing there as well, the Bernards baseball program is close to his heart. He played shortstop throughout his high school career at BHS and went on to play college ball at Kean University.  “I am ready to take on this role, full steam ahead,” said Mahlik. “We will set high standards for the program with the goal of winning championships, and that happens by putting our heads down and going through the process.”  He is eager to begin an off-season plan to prepare for the March start. In discussing it with Dr. Brotschul, Superintendent of Schools, Mahlik expressed his desire for community and youth involvement; he wants to work with the local Little League, along with the BMS baseball program to ensure that the values and coaching principles are aligned with a shared vision from the youngest players, up and on throughout high school.

“Phil balances the importance of culture and strategy, which are critical touchpoints with the athlete of 2025.  We wish Phil the absolute best and are certain he will positively impact student-athletes across the District,” said Dr. Brian Brotschul, Superintendent of Schools.

Mahlik joined the Somerset Hills School District in 2022 as a Physical Education teacher at Bernardsville Middle School.  He graduated from Kean University with a BS in Physical Education and Health with a minor in Coaching. Mahlik recently obtained an MA in Coaching and Athletics Administration. 

“Everybody I have ever met loves Phil. He brings high energy and youthful enthusiasm to everything he does. He is an alumnus who has played collegiate baseball, and he will continue the winning legacy at Bernard’s High School,” shared Athletic Director Mike Hoppe. 

Mahlik will replace Jeff Falzarano who took over the baseball program in 2004. 

The Somerset Hills School District is excited for Mahlik to join the team of dedicated and driven coaches, in this new role…. and as they say, “Let’s play ball!”