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Saint John School has announced the appointment of Alex Izzi as its new athletic director.
A 2008 graduate of Saints John & Paul School and former Saint John teacher and coach, Izzi returns to the Herald family eager to build upon the school’s rich athletic tradition.
Izzi takes over for Nick Iarocci, who announced his retirement in May. Iarocci will continue to coach the Saint John girls basketball team.
Izzi, who officially starts the position July 1, earned his degree in health and physical education from Kent State University before beginning a career in education and coaching.
In recent years, he worked successfully in the insurance industry, where he gained valuable experience in leadership, supervision, and employee training.
Despite enjoying success in the corporate world, Izzi said his heart never left Saint John.
“Over the past few years, I had several conversations with [Saint John President] Sister Maureen [Burke] about the future of our athletic program and how I wanted to be part of its continued growth,” Izzi said. “When the opportunity to become athletic director came along, I knew this is where I belonged.”
Izzi believes the skills he developed as a supervisor and trainer will serve him well as he begins his new role.
“I know I have a lot to learn and big shoes to fill,” he said. “My first priority is to listen — to our coaches, our parents, and, most importantly, our student-athletes.
“I want to understand what they need and what they envision for our teams. The strategic plan developed two years ago provides an excellent foundation, but I truly believe the best days of Herald athletics are still ahead.”
He added that his vision extends well beyond wins and losses.
“I want our students to be champions in the classroom and on the court, on the field, and in life,” Izzi said. “My years as a student at Saint John gave me incredible memories through basketball and baseball.
“I formed lifelong friendships, grew in confidence, and learned lessons that have stayed with me ever since. I want today’s Heralds to have those same opportunities and experiences.”
Burke expressed enthusiasm for Izzi’s return.
“Alex understands what makes Saint John special because he has lived it as a student, teacher, and coach,” she said. “His passion for our mission, combined with his leadership experience and commitment to developing young people, makes him an outstanding choice to lead our athletic program. We are excited to welcome him home and look forward to the future of Herald athletics under his leadership.”
Izzi and his wife, Sarah (Bodnar) Izzi, are the proud parents of their daughter, Rosie, who is a member of Saint John’s Class of 2037.
As athletic director, Izzi will oversee the school’s comprehensive athletic program, working closely with coaches, student-athletes, parents, and school leadership to continue fostering a culture of excellence rooted in sportsmanship, character, faith, and academic achievement.
Continue reading...
A 2008 graduate of Saints John & Paul School and former Saint John teacher and coach, Izzi returns to the Herald family eager to build upon the school’s rich athletic tradition.
Izzi takes over for Nick Iarocci, who announced his retirement in May. Iarocci will continue to coach the Saint John girls basketball team.
Izzi, who officially starts the position July 1, earned his degree in health and physical education from Kent State University before beginning a career in education and coaching.
In recent years, he worked successfully in the insurance industry, where he gained valuable experience in leadership, supervision, and employee training.
Despite enjoying success in the corporate world, Izzi said his heart never left Saint John.
“Over the past few years, I had several conversations with [Saint John President] Sister Maureen [Burke] about the future of our athletic program and how I wanted to be part of its continued growth,” Izzi said. “When the opportunity to become athletic director came along, I knew this is where I belonged.”
Izzi believes the skills he developed as a supervisor and trainer will serve him well as he begins his new role.
“I know I have a lot to learn and big shoes to fill,” he said. “My first priority is to listen — to our coaches, our parents, and, most importantly, our student-athletes.
“I want to understand what they need and what they envision for our teams. The strategic plan developed two years ago provides an excellent foundation, but I truly believe the best days of Herald athletics are still ahead.”
He added that his vision extends well beyond wins and losses.
“I want our students to be champions in the classroom and on the court, on the field, and in life,” Izzi said. “My years as a student at Saint John gave me incredible memories through basketball and baseball.
“I formed lifelong friendships, grew in confidence, and learned lessons that have stayed with me ever since. I want today’s Heralds to have those same opportunities and experiences.”
Burke expressed enthusiasm for Izzi’s return.
“Alex understands what makes Saint John special because he has lived it as a student, teacher, and coach,” she said. “His passion for our mission, combined with his leadership experience and commitment to developing young people, makes him an outstanding choice to lead our athletic program. We are excited to welcome him home and look forward to the future of Herald athletics under his leadership.”
Izzi and his wife, Sarah (Bodnar) Izzi, are the proud parents of their daughter, Rosie, who is a member of Saint John’s Class of 2037.
As athletic director, Izzi will oversee the school’s comprehensive athletic program, working closely with coaches, student-athletes, parents, and school leadership to continue fostering a culture of excellence rooted in sportsmanship, character, faith, and academic achievement.
Continue reading...
