Lally to Step Down as Director of Athletics and Recreation
BROOKLYN, N.Y. — After three years at the helm of the St. Joseph's College (Brooklyn) athletic department, James Lally has announced he will step down as director of athletics and recreation to pursue a new career opportunity outside of college athletics. He will remain at the College until August 16. A nationwide search for a new athletic director has already commenced.
"I want to thank Vice President [for Athletics and Campus Services] Shantey Hill-Hanna for bringing me on board three years ago and working with our department as we attempted to take the Bears programs to new heights," remarked Lally. "I will cherish my time at SJC Brooklyn, getting to work with our staff, coaches and student-athletes was an amazing experience."
"James has been a wonderful resource for our students and staff alike," added Hill-Hanna. "He has helped to elevate the professionalism of the department as well as provide a solid foundation for further growth that future Bears will benefit from. We wish he and his family all the best in his new endeavor."
Over the last three seasons, the Bears athletic program has displayed a steady rise. Lally's departure comes at a time when the department will welcome its largest freshman recruiting class this fall, as student-athletes will total approximately 160 overall.
The Bears also ride their most successful season since joining the Skyline Conference — 50 conference victories in 2018-19, eight teams that qualified for the post-season, earning the right to host the first home playoff game at The Hill Center, and its highest finish in the Presidents Cup race. Over Lally's tenure, SJC has yielded 35 All-Skyline selections, which included one Player of the Year and three Scholar-Athletes of the Year.
Lally helped institute the Bears Scholar-Athlete Team, which has honored 238 student-athletes over the past three years for achieving a 3.5 or better grade-point average over either semester in the calendar year. He helped invigorate the Bears Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), which has seen an increased presence on campus and in the community through volunteer hours served and money raised towards charitable efforts.
He also oversaw several fundraising efforts and helped drive the project to create additional athletic space on campus with the opening of the Turf Athletic Facility in St. Angela Hall earlier this year.
"What we have been able to accomplish over the past three years was the result of a combined effort of all parties involved. I am excited to continue to follow the Bears as they work hard to achieve continued growth of the department, development of the student-athlete and graduating future Bears that will lead happy, successful, meaningful lives," concluded Lally.
Lally will be departing for a position at his alma mater, St. John's University. There, he will work to provide professional opportunities for students throughout the University, an area that Lally is highly passionate about.