Eddie Burke's 30-Year Coaching Career at St. Joseph's Prep and Beyond
Eddie Burke coached basketball for 30 seasons, 16 at Catholic League schools including St. Joseph's Prep (and again 1993-99), St. Thomas More, Bishop McDevitt, and West Catholic.
A Journeyman Champion
Burke's career was remarkable for its breadth and consistency. He earned back-to-back championships at different schools -- a rare feat. His time at St. Joseph's Prep was the longest and most celebrated chapter, spanning two separate stints.
Championship Moments
In one championship game, Pat Rafferty came up with the biggest rebound of his career. In another title game, a player set a school Division I record that had stood for years. Burke's teams were known for their defensive intensity and their ability to peak in the postseason.
One memorable CL championship game saw Bill Truskey mix 13 points with 12 rebounds, while Emery Sammons added to the championship total. Burke achieved what few coaches can claim: back-to-back championships at different schools.
14 Seasons at St. Joseph's Prep
Burke's longest stint was at St. Joseph's Prep, where over 14 seasons he built the Hawks into a consistent contender. His teams regularly competed for Catholic League titles and produced numerous All-Catholic selections.