There will be a new face at the helm of the Plymouth Big Red next season. On Monday night, Plymouth-Shiloh Schools confirmed the hire of Andrew McFarland as its next athletic director.
The 28 year old will take over for retiring athletic director Fritz Jaquay, who is finishing 12 years at the post.
Plymouth High School Principal Amanda Mahon said McFarland’s commitment to the district and connection to it stood out during the hiring process. His current work within athletics is expected to help make a smooth transition when he officially begins in August.
“I got into education because I enjoy history and wanted to coach baseball” said McFarland. He is currently doing just that, as a fifth year teacher in Social Sciences and the current head coach of the varsity baseball team.
Among McFarland’s foremost challenges will be the finishing of a new football field, the district’s current facilities do not serve the functions the district would like them to and there is an effort to raise the funding needed. On the field, he inherits several programs stocked with returning talent and climbing quickly.
In the short term, the new athletic director said his focus is on the students. he simply looks to be a positive influence on students and keep things moving forward.
“We’ve got a pretty good core[in the current administration],” said McFarland, adding he hopes to “keep things moving forward” and build on the positive work already in place.