After only a year as Big Rapids’ athletic director, Stephanie Shaw decided to step down at the end of July. Now, the school has found its newest leader of sports.

Cole Andrews was announced as the school’s newest athletic director on Monday, Aug. 17. He last served as Rockford’s athletic director for the past seven years. He also spent time as the athletic director at Oxford, Frankenmuth and Pellston.

“Rockford is a special place,” Andrews said. “I’m not going to lie to you and say it wasn’t a dream of mine. I got to live that dream for seven great years and made lots of memories."

When asked what made him consider leaving Rockford, Andrews said it was the opportunity to give back to his family ties.

“Both my parents graduated from Big Rapids,” Andrews said. “It was exciting to think about giving back and serving the same community that my parents were in. I also did a lot of research and found a lot of my professional connections here, which made me feel that there’s really good support for athletics.”

Although it was only his first day on the job, Andrews mentioned having ideas to help revamp the technology around athletics, such as the school’s athletic website, graphics and other resources, as well as help with team branding in apparel and community support.

According to Superintendent Tim Haist, there was lots of interest in the position.

“We were very pleased with the strength of our applicant pool,” Haist said. “We had the opportunity to interview multiple highly qualified candidates, including several who have served as athletic directors. Cole has a clear passion and enthusiasm for student athletics, and we are excited about the experience he will bring to this position.”

When talking about what set Andrews apart, Haist said his experience in highly touted school districts and his deep desire for community connection were key parts.

“We really value Cole’s desire to have his family become part of the Big Rapids community. That personal connection and commitment to our community will help make him an excellent fit for our district, our students and our athletic programs.”

A graduate of Western Michigan University, Andrews grew up in Boyne City and was a three sport high school athlete in football, basketball and baseball. He has been married to his wife, Allie, for 18 years. They have two sons in middle school, who began their first days of sports practices on Monday.

Andrews becomes the second new athletic director in the Central State Activities Association this year, joining Reed City’s Ethan Patrick, who was hired a few months ago. Chippewa Hills is also in the process of hiring a new athletic director after Joe Szombati resigned to accept a position as the Barryton Elementary School principal.

_{Image courtesy of Cole Andrews.}