Mr. Dave Badamo takes on the role of Athletic Director (AD) of Freedom as of July 1. Badamo has been in the district for 23 years and has very recently decided to take over the position of AD since former Athletic Director, Mr. John Rosa, has retired. Rosa had been in the district for 12 years as AD, and even longer as a teacher, so the change has definitely made an impact on the community; however, staff, student-athletes, parents and coaches are already adjusting to this change. 

“It’s been good, we communicate very well, he includes myself and also the athletic trainer in things we did not know about before, so it has been very informative. I think that it is a positive change,” Carrie Tuszynski, Athletic Secretary, said.

As a woodshop and home maintenance teacher, as well as a track coach here at Freedom, Badamo has worked with many students, teachers, parents and athletes. Badamo’s love for sports drove him to take on this new position. Badamo said that he had always wanted to get more involved in the school’s athletic program, but never had the opportunity. When the opportunity arose, Badamo jumped on the new position and he already enjoys his new role in the community. Badamo has yet to make any big changes, but he says that there are a few things he would like to, and will likely change in the near future. 

“I’m just trying to change the culture and just trying to make [athletics] as enjoyable for everybody,” Badamo said. 

Badamo says that he would like to change the attitudes of the fan base, as well as some minor issues affecting the sports programs, but he does not want to “fix something that ain’t broke” so changes will not likely come with major backlash. Badamo said that his transition into the position was smooth, however he is still learning new things about his position. His new role comes with many responsibilities, but Badamo says he really enjoys being more involved in the athletic program. He has already been involved and communicated with all coaches, as well as a number of parents and athletes. Tuszynski also said that Badamo is doing a great job so far in handling all aspects of his position. She said that there has yet to be any complaints about him or how he has handled a situation. Taking on the role after a precursor who served as the Athletic Director for 12 years is not easy, but Badamo is adjusting quickly to his new job.