Talking With: Babylon's New Athletic Director

As Babylon School District's Athletic Director, Michael DeJoseph oversees all sports programs, from the gymnaisum at local schools to the varsity sports teams.

A SUNY Cortland graduate, DeJoseph holds a masters degree from SUNY Stony Brook in health education and school district administration.

Once out of college he quickly learned that physical education roles are not easy to find. He began substitute teaching in New York City and served as an in-school suspension supervisor.  He arrived in Babylon in 1999 and served as a coach and physical education/ health teacher  for a decade before being tapped as the district's athletic director. 

Serving the district, DeJoseph says, is a tremendous honor and he's extremely grateful for the opportunity.  

Patch's sports reporter Corey Swike interviewed DeJoseph to learn more about his role, his goals as AD and the challenges he's facing in his first year on the job.

Patch:  What are your goals for the Babylon athletic program?
DeJoseph: My goal  is to encourage excellence by creating an educational and competitive experience for our student-athletes with a focus on teamwork, effort and sportsmanship.

Patch: Do you like being an athletic director?
DeJoseph: I am in the process of learning an extremely challenging job and I do enjoy the challenge. My job would be impossible if not for my secretary, Mrs. O'Shea, as her enthusiasm and understanding of athletic administration makes doing my job more enjoyable.

Patch: Does the stress ever really get to you about handling a  district's sports program?
DeJoseph: Stress is a reality when you have a challenging job. I understand that the decisions I make affect individuals, families and our community; I do not take this job lightly. I attempt to make educated and informed decisions and I frequently ask for assistance from more experienced colleagues.

Patch: Is it hard to deal with calls from parents with complaints and issues?
DeJoseph: Parental concern is part of my job. I encourage parents to be involved in their child's education and life, but there is an appropriate method. If there is a concern, it should not be confrontational. Communication between parents, coaches and athletic directors is necessary to provide our student-athletes with a positive experience

Patch: When did you realize you wanted to be an athletic director?
DeJoseph: I did not anticipate the opportunity to become an athletic director at this point in my career but I am honored to serve the Babylon district and community. I have always been interested in the emotion and passion involved in athletics; being able to work for all the teams and coaches in our district is exciting.

Patch: What are your plans for the future?
DeJoseph: My professional plans include increasing my knowledge and understanding of athletic administration by enrolling in professional development courses, developing strong relationships with other professionals and community organizations, and developing our athletic programs and facilities to the best of my ability. My personal goals are to be a good husband and father.

Patch: How important are connections and networking in a field like this?
DeJoseph: Networking is vital; the ability to utilize other professionals as a resource is invaluable. Developing relationships with individuals and organizations, in and out of district, is an integral part of running a successful program.