Dexter Basketball Coach Mike Bavineau Accepts New Role as District's Athletic Director

After more than six months at the helm of the Dexter Athletics Department, interim director Mike Bavineau will retain his position on a full-time basis.

Superintendent Dennis Desmarias appointed Bavineau as the district's official athletic director on Tuesday.

"Mike has served (as athletic director) since last August. In that time he has worked effectively with coaches, students and parents in his role," Desmarais said. "He has brought an attitude of enthusiasm and accountability to that department."

Bavineau, who also serves as the girls' varsity basketball coach, replaced former director Darren Kecskes in 2012, after Kecskes resigned less than a month in the position.

In making the decision, Desmarias said he was impressed with Bavineau's leadership in the district. Last month Bavineau presented the Dexter Community Schools Board of Education with his vision for the department's future.

Desmarias said no other candidates were considered for the position.

"Since Mike has served as the interim director, we really did not look at other candidates," he said. "Mike has a strong background in coaching success. His 'interview' was in the day-to-day running of that department. He has shown throughout this year his ability to move that department in the right direction."

In the coming months, Desmarias said he will look to Bavineau for guidance with the department's personnel, coaching staff, and growth in student athlete participation.

"Mike has much to do internally in the athletic department and will become the standard bearer for student/athlete success and program growth," he said.

Bavineau said he is looking forward to the challenge the athletic director position brings to Dexter Community Schools.

"We want to turn over every stone and look at every single way we can improve the experience of our student athletes," he said. "One of the challenges will be to continue to provide an environment for our athletes to flourish.

"Students need to know that our coaches and administrators are working on their behalf so that our athletes can be successful not only during their season, but during the off-season as well."

This season Bavineau led the Dreadnaught varsity girls' basketball team to its first district championship since 2005. He said he will continue to serve as head varsity basketball coach during the 2013-2014 season, as well.

To view Beavineau's presentation to the Dexter School Board, visit the board's YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/SchoolBoardOnline.