Sacred Heart Prep names new athletic director Sacred Heart Prep names new athletic director (March 03, 2004)

Sacred Heart Prep in Atherton will have a new athletic director starting July 1.

Anthony Thomas, currently director of athletics at the Urban School in San Francisco, will take over the post from Michael Ciardella, who has been the school's athletic director for the past 12 years.

In recent years, Sacred Heart Schools has expanded its athletic programs and facilities by building a football field, a swimming complex, all-weather track and a tennis center.

At the Urban School, a private school in San Francisco, Mr. Thomas is also head coach of the varsity baseball team, assistant varsity basketball coach, and an adjunct history professor.

"We are very excited to have Anthony Thomas join our Sacred Heart community," said Rich Dioli, principal. "With Anthony's enthusiasm, determination and strong work ethic, Sacred Heart Prep's athletics will continue to flourish."

A graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles, Mr. Thomas has been involved in athletics for most of his career. At Sacred Heart Prep, he will be responsible for all personnel in the athletic department, said Mr. Dioli.

"I want students to have attainable goals, respect for each other, enjoy sports, avoid negativity and work hard in a positive environment," said Mr. Thomas. "Students will then be able to achieve success."

The Catholic, independent, co-educational schools, housed on the same campus, are Sacred Heart Prep for high school students, grades 9 to 12; St. Joseph's School of the Sacred Heart for preschool and kindergarten; and St. Joseph's elementary school, grades 1-8.

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