New Athletic Director Announced by Army Navy Academy

The Army and Navy Academy proudly announced the hiring of Carlsbad's Tom Tarantino, who will succeed John Maffucci upon his retirement. Bringing his 54-years with Army Navy to a close, Maffucci leaves behind a great legacy that will never be forgotten.

As a graduate of a school that is nationally recognized for education in the field of sports, Springfield College, Tarantino kicked off his career as a physical education teach, as well as coach in New York at St. Rose of Lima and St. Mary’s High School. Before his move to Army Navy, Tarantino worked as the athletic director at the Bishop's School in La Jolla since 2000. His years of leadership as an AD, coach and teacher, in a both public & private institutions, undoubtedly make him a great successor. Tarantino lead his basketball teams at Bishop to win 27 San Diego Section CIF championships and also 40 league championships during his ten year career, and in 2001 was name Coach of the Year by the Union Tribune.

"With his background and experience, Tom Tarantino is seen by our administration as the perfect choice to succeed John Maffucci, whose own distinguished career spanned more than 50 years" Brig. Gen. Steve Bliss, President of Army-Navy, said in a statement. "He is a perfect fit for our school." As the Army and Navy Academy begins its second century in 2011, many hope that Tarantino's great skills and experience will serve the Academy well during a career that has the potential to span as many years as that of John Maffucci.