Moraga, CA (June 27) - Saint Mary's College Vice President for Student Affairs Brother Jack Curran, FSC, today announced the appointment of Carl R. Clapp as the new Director of Athletics. Clapp, Director of Athletics and Physical Education at the University of Redlands since 1995, was a unanimous choice among coaches, administrators, regents and alumni.

New Director of Athletics, Carl R. Clapp

Curran introduced Clapp at a 12:30 p.m. press conference, stating "Carl was a unanimous choice of the athletic department and search committee. We found a man of integrity, accomplishment and dedication to lead our athletic department into the new millennium."

With more than 20 years of experience in intercollegiate athletics, both as a coach and administrator, Clapp has held positions at the NCAA Division I, II, and III levels. He has proven experience building a successful athletics program, communicating effectively with coaches and staff, and raising much-needed funds for athletic buildings and scholarships.

While at Redlands, Clapp doubled the participation of women students in sports programs, and led the college's teams to the highest level of success in the institution's history. Clapp also oversaw a 20 sport intercollegiate program for both men and women and provided leadership for 60 department personnel.

"I believe this is a terrific time to be at Saint Mary's, there are a tremendous amount of good things to build upon," commented Clapp. "I look forward to the challenge and am ready to get to work."

Clapp initiated athletic recruitment goals and facilitated recruitment efforts of coaches to achieve University of Redlands enrollment goals. He also served as the lead administrator and managed the operations of all athletic and recreational facilities, and provided leadership for external athletic fundraising activities and athletic alumni events.

"I recognize and understand the challenge of funding competitive athletic programs at the NCAA Division I level," said Clapp. "I will work to build and enhance relationships with alumni and friends, involve them in the life of the institution, secure commitments, and maintain their continuing involvement. I understand the importance of not only maintaining, but enhancing the image of the institution on the local, state, and national level through appropriate and effective administration and marketing of the intercollegiate athletic program."

According to Clapp, his goal at Saint Mary's will be to provide each student-athlete with an outstanding undergraduate experience. This includes the opportunity to participate in athletics and learn values and skills such as teamwork, leadership, self-discipline, commitment, accountability, and perseverance. Additionally, student-athletes learn how to respond appropriately to both adversity and success.

In addition, Clapp was instrumental in providing new and upgraded facilities at University of Redlands, and with plans on the table at Saint Mary's for a new athletic building and athletic field upgrades, his experience will help to facilitate the progress of those plans. Prior to Redlands, Clapp was the Director of Athletics at Avila College in Kansas City, Missouri from 1992 to 1995 where he also served as the Commissioner of the Midlands Collegiate Conference in 1994 and 1995. Clapp began his career in athletics as an Assistant Football Coach at three different Division I programs before moving into administration.

"The search committee viewed Carl as the unanimous choice because he has a track record of excellence as an Athletic Director and is a progressive leader," stated Paul Ratcliffe, Head Women's Soccer Coach and member of the search committee.

Clapp earned a bachelor's degree in Physical Education and Psychology from the University of California at Santa Barbara in 1981. He earned his master's degree in Exercise and Sport Sciences from the University of Arizona in 1985 and completed additional graduate work at the University of Kansas from 1990-92. He is married to Joyce Clapp and has four children, Jennifer (11), Justin (9), Sarah Joyce (8) and Christian (5).