ThunderRidge High School Names Curi Yutzy as Head Girls Basketball Coach
Highlands Ranch, CO – ThunderRidge High School is proud to announce the hiring of Curi Yutzy as the new Head Girls Basketball Coach. Coach Yutzy brings a wealth of experience, a proven track record of success, and a deep commitment to student-athlete development to the Grizzly basketball program.
Coach Yutzy has been an integral part of the ThunderRidge basketball community since 2018, serving as an Assistant Varsity Coach where he played a pivotal role in one of the most successful stretches in program history. During his tenure, the program captured two state championships, finished as state runner-up once, and made appearances in the Final Four and Great 8. He was instrumental in opponent preparation, in-game adjustments, and the creation of detailed scouting reports utilizing Hudl film and in-depth personnel analysis.
Known for his basketball IQ and strategic mindset, Coach Yutzy has been heavily relied upon for end-of-game situations, special sets, and defensive matchups. His collaborative approach with coaching staff has strengthened program cohesion while enhancing overall team performance. He has also led player development efforts, particularly with guards, emphasizing shooting, ball handling, and mental toughness.
Beyond game strategy, Coach Yutzy is deeply committed to the holistic development of student-athletes. He implemented a team book study during the 2023–2024 season, reinforcing leadership, accountability, and character development. Over the past eight years, he has helped mentor and develop 18 student-athletes who have gone on to play college basketball.
Prior to his time at ThunderRidge, Coach Yutzy served as Head Varsity Coach at Dakota Ridge High School from 2008–2018, where he became the all-time winningest coach in program history with 142 victories. During his tenure, his teams made three consecutive Sweet 16 appearances in Colorado’s highest classification. He was recognized as a two-time Jeffco 5A Boys Basketball Coach of the Year.
Coach Yutzy’s leadership extended beyond the varsity level. He developed comprehensive preseason, in-season, and summer programs, emphasizing skill development, strength training, and team culture. He also built and mentored coaching staffs, fostered strong relationships with families and the community, and maintained proactive communication with stakeholders. His commitment to youth development included overseeing feeder programs, directing camps, and organizing coaching clinics for over 20 youth coaches to ensure alignment and consistency throughout all levels of the program.
A former student-athlete at Colorado Christian University, Coach Yutzy earned recognition as the CCU Senior Athlete of the Year and ranks among the program’s all-time leaders in three-point and free throw percentage. His playing experience, combined with his extensive coaching background, provides a strong foundation for leading the ThunderRidge Girls Basketball program.
In addition to his coaching credentials, Coach Yutzy is certified in CPR/First Aid and is an active member of the Colorado High School Coaches Association. His commitment to continuous growth, both personally and professionally, aligns with the values of ThunderRidge High School.
“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Yutzy into this leadership role,” said ThunderRidge administration. “His experience, passion for the game, and dedication to developing student-athletes both on and off the court make him the ideal fit to lead our girls basketball program.”
Coach Yutzy expressed excitement for the opportunity, stating, “It is an honor to lead the ThunderRidge Girls Basketball program. I am committed to building a culture of excellence, hard work, and unity while helping our student-athletes grow as competitors and individuals.”
ThunderRidge High School looks forward to the continued success and growth of the girls basketball program under Coach Yutzy’s leadership.
