ATHLETICS
The boys are back:
Alumni of the School serve as Fords coaches Over the last five years, many alumni have returned to Lancaster Avenue to give back and be part of Haverford School athletics. Some have returned to teach and coach, while others have stepped up to become program directors of the sports they felt so passionately about during their years at Haverford. There is also a large number of former Fords that return to support their programs in Assistant Coaching roles. The teacher-coach role is an important part of The Haverford School and has given alumni a way to give back to the School. Chris DiBello ’12 returned to teach Upper School science and coach both football and wrestling. Brandon Walker ’15 returned this year to teach Middle School history and English, while also holding coaching duties for Middle School football and wrestling. “It is always exciting when an alum of the School returns and coaches with one of our programs. An alumnus of the School brings a unique perspective about the positive impact that participation in athletics can have on a young man’s development,” said Mike Murphy, Director of Athletics. “In addition, they understand first-hand the challenges that being a student-athlete at Haverford can present. Boys must balance rigorous academic coursework with a competitive athletic experience.” Taking on the role of program director is a commitment that requires dedication. Two years ago, Cole Berman ’14 took over as Director of Golf Program at Haverford. In his years at the helm, his teams have already won an Inter-Ac championship and continue to develop future Haverford golfers. This year, Thomas Lindberg ’07 was announced as Director of Ice Hockey Program. Coach Lindberg is working with a talented group of student-athletes and continues to build and grow the program. Many of the teams also have alumni helping out with parttime or assistant coach roles. Luke Kania ’19 not only serves as an assistant coach for baseball, but he is also the “Voice of the Fords,” announcing home games for the football and basketball teams. Lacrosse always has a few alumni on the sidelines helping Director of Lacrosse Program and Assistant Director of Athletics Brendan Dawson. This year, Grant Ament ’15 joins the coaching staff after a successful career at Penn State and in professional leagues. Middle School sports also have several alumni helping on the sidelines, with Cory Taylor ’96 serving the soccer program and Lucas Elek ’13 joining the Track and Field staff. This past fall, Haverford Crew had two alumni from the class of 2014 helping out in Chet Bickhart ’14 and Eamon Glavin ’14. All the teams at Haverford are always looking for assistant coaches that know the School and its traditions. If you’re interested in supporting a Fords team, contact Mike Murphy at mmurphy@haverford.org.
14
Winter 2022
