Masuk Free Press

Before the start of the 2024-2025 school year, the long-vacant position of Athletic Director, currently manned by Principal Steven Swendsen, and previously occupied by Craig Semple, will be filled by Masuk alum and longtime teacher, Brian Hourigan. Hourigan has served Masuk’s Science department and currently works as a coach for Masuk’s baseball team.

“I’ve been a teacher for 22 years. When I started teaching, I started coaching here. I coached JV Soccer and JV Baseball. Then, I left to coach at Oxford High School, but then I came back to coach the baseball team here,” Said Hourigan.

In an email sent school-wide on March 25th, Hourigan was impressive during the interview process, attracting praise from administrators.

“Hourigan impressed the interview committees with his passion for Panther athletics and for his acknowledgment of the importance of healthy living as learned through the physical education and health curricula.” Said the e-mail.

In the same email, Principal Swendsen commended Hourigan stating, “Brian embodies all that is good about the Masuk/Monroe community.”

Hourigan, experienced in all things Masuk, has plans for his tenure

“Once I start (I’ll) make sure that all the fall sports go well and smoothly,” Hourigan stated.

Although Hourigan may seem cautious and ready to play it safe, He’s all about increasing appreciation for exemplary athletes.  “One of my goals (is) to celebrate our student-athletes and our teams and our coaches a lot more around the building and on social media. That’s probably the first thing that I’ll try to do.” He also added. 

Hourigan’s new position as the Athletic Director has been popular among student-athletes, especially those who did not enjoy the previous Athletic Director, Chris Semple.

“He’s my physics teacher and I think he’s gonna be a pretty good athletics director. He’s super passionate,” said junior swimmer Gavin Dowling. 

“He’s not making stupid rules. So, we’re doing good,” Said Senior Field Hockey and Track athlete Gwen Giugno. 

“Mr. Hourigan is going to be good” She added. 

Mr. Hourigan’s History at Masuk is storied and it is obvious that he has the wisdom and heart necessary to serve Masuk’s diverse and wide array of student-athletes, Students who need an Athletic Director who cares and is there to celebrate their highest moments; Moments that define the high school experience at Masuk, that could have flown under the radar in the past.