Math teacher and coach Steve Hargis claims open Athletic Director position

by Bryan Swenson

Last year's East Lyme High School Athletic Director Jack Biggs has stepped down due to scheduling conflicts and a third child on the way, but a familiar face has already filled the gap.

Former head of the math department Steve Hargis is now the ELHS Athletic Director.

"Sports is a real passion of mine having coached at the Coast Guard and having coached here," said Hargis, who currently coaches track and field.

After a process of applications and interviews by other faculty and approval by the superintendent, Hargis was the top dog for the job.

"I certainly demonstrated that I have leadership skills," said Hargis who is also the head development coach of the Women's National Junior Rowing Team.

Hargis has a heavy sports background in his past as well. He played football, basketball and baseball in high school and was on the rowing team at the Coast Guard Academy, so he knows what it means to be a student-athlete.

"I think that athletics play an important role in the students' development. I want to be sure all of our athletes are getting quality experiences," said Hargis.

He does recognize and stress, however, that being a student comes before being an athlete: "I want to be sure we're all on the same path and that the message we're giving our athletes is the same."

As the Athletic Director, Hargis' new responsibilities include scheduling games and practices, supporting all the coaches and filling all the coaching positions. Also, when game day arrives, Hargis decides whether the weather allows for playable conditions or not.

It is different than working as head of the math department due to longer hours, however, Hargis' passion for sports distracts him from the workload.

"I'm just excited to start, so let's get going," said Hargis.