By Tanner Matchett and Jack Bretthauer – Staff Reporters

Tom Drew was hired to be the new Athletic Director at Jonathan Law High School on April 21. 

Drew, a special education teacher at Foran High School, was also previously the head football and girls lacrosse coach at Foran hopes to get close to student-athletes at Law. 

“The reason I became a coach was to have a positive impact on kids, and to help them become the best versions of themselves,” Drew said “The bond that is created between coach and athlete during that process is special, being an athletic director will allow me to have a greater impact amongst more student athletes.”

Law Principal Mr. Darcy and Dean of Students Mr. Ragaini knew that Drew was the best choice for the job. Darcy said the “process was intense” and that Law “interviewed several candidates from across the state.” 

“There were two major things that stood out for Tom Drew during the process,” Darcy said. “First, this is a bit of a homecoming for Tom. He actually started his teaching career in Milford at Law before moving over to Foran. He’s going to raise expectations we have for our athletic programs and I’m excited to work with him in this process.”

Ragaini, who has been serving as the interim AD at Law since Mr. Sarullo accepted the AD job at Staples High School in February, said the interview process was a thorough one. 

“The interview process did feel a bit different than other interviews I have been part of recently,” Ragaini said. “Since I have been covering as our interim Athletic Director, I have a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of an AD. I tried to use that lens during the process.”

Coaches and teachers at Law were also involved in the interview process and knew the importance of hiring the right candidate. 

“The Athletic Director is the straw that stirs the drink,” head outdoor track coach Mr. Beler said. “He provides the implements for coaches to do what they do best. A supportive Athletic Director is the foundation to a successful athletic program.”

Girls tennis coach Mr. Kulenych was excited when he heard Drew was selected.

“Coach Drew is a perfect fit for the student-athletes at Law,” Kulenych said. “He knows Milford, he knows Law, and he is going to to continue to lead all of our athletics programs in the right direction.”