Even though being an assistant high school principal and being the athletic director at the same time would appear to deal with two vastly different sets of ideals, Brian Carey believes his new position “is a perfect fit for me.”

Carey takes over the AD/assistant principal position officially Aug. 1. The positions came open with the unexpected passing of Jim Marsh.

Carey’s vision for East Clinton’s athletic department is simple enough to work and broad enough to cover his expectations for those he’ll deal with as the assistant principal.

“My vision for East Clinton athletics revolves around high expectations (for coaches and athletes), setting goals, pride and work ethic,” he said.

Additionally, the scope of athletics extends beyond just the EC campus.

“My vision is to have a vertical alignment with our youth programs from the very bottom to the varsity level in every sport across the board,” said Carey, a 2009 graduate of Wilmington High School. “We want to see our youth training and learning the same programs as our varsity levels. We want our athletes to be proud of playing for the East Clinton athletic programs in all aspects.”

The dual position will keep Carey from coach girls golf in the fall or baseball in the spring.

“I will really miss coaching,” said Carey, who officially takes over Aug. 1 but will be working during the summer to get “systems in place and overseeing summer camps and programs.”

Amy Crowe, who has handled many of the athletic director duties in recent months, is a valuable asset to the district.

”Amy has been an incredible asset to East Clinton athletics,’ Carey said. “I cannot put into words the amount of appreciation we have for her. We are all very thankful for her continued support and willingness to help us during this time. She will continue to help in some aspect in the future.”

Despite coming from another county school, Carey has become entrenched in the East Clinton community.

”I want to thank the East Clinton Board of Education, the East Clinton staff, students and most importantly the East Clinton community for this opportunity to lead East Clinton athletics,” he said. “I am very thankful for the support I have received already in this short amount of time. I look forward to this opportunity and the future of East Clinton athletics.”