MEET BRETT KELLY

Brimmer’s new Athletic Director ensures students both value and enjoy the role of athletics, health, and wellness in their lives.

What led you to Brimmer?

Professionally, I had been looking for an opportunity in athletic administration at an independent school, and when the position at Brimmer opened up I began to dig a little deeper into the School and the community. I was immediately drawn to Brimmer’s mission and Core Values. I believe one of the key purposes of education is to prepare young people to be ethical citizens and leaders. To do so, Brimmer teaches students the values of respect, responsibility, kindness, honesty, and equity. This really resonates with me as a professional and a person. Going through the interview process and having an opportunity to meet many community members confirmed that Brimmer is a wonderful place and a great fit for me.

What are you most excited about in your new role?

Since I arrived, I have had the good fortune of meeting and connecting with so many students, parents, faculty, staff, and alums who are so passionate about athletics. It is clear to me that this is a very healthy Athletics and Physical Education (PE) program! Having the opportunity to build on the many successes of such an established program really excites me. While there may be some adjustments and changes for students and community members, I am extremely optimistic about the future of this program.

What is your personal philosophy on athletics, PE, and health & wellness?

The role that health and wellness plays at a school is different than what you would find at a town, club, or independent team level. Brimmer’s Athletic Department, with its many offerings, is a place to teach the same values and lessons that students learn in the classroom, just in a different manner. Students participating in athletics and PE will be pushed to learn about themselves as students, as leaders, and as athletes. We will stress respect, responsibility, kindness, honesty, and equity. In addition, Brimmer athletes will How have your own experiences influenced your work in the field of athletics in an educational setting? My professional experiences over the past 18 years have influenced me greatly as I have had opportunities to work in higher and secondary education in a number of different roles. Because I have seen students play at the highest levels, and I have also seen students who avoid physical activities, I have developed a passionate and flexible approach to both athletics and PE. Regardless of the level of the sport or activity, there are so many learning opportunities, as long as students commit. I want to ensure that all students enjoy and value their experience.

What inspires you and brings you joy?

Professionally, I love when students have been able to grow as people and see themselves in a different light. There are countless opportunities to fail and succeed, and that is what I love about sports. Both failing and succeeding in a supportive and positive environment can be a powerful tool for student growth. Personally, I love being with friends and family and sharing experiences with them. Whether it is visiting a museum or going on a family trip, having the opportunity to be doing something memorable with people that are special to me brings me a lot of joy.

Brett Kelly with wife Stephanie, son Charlie (6 years old), and daughter Paige (2.5 years)