By James Hanlon
Leader Staff Writer
Oxford Community Schools hired Tony DeMare as the district’s new athletic director this month, filling a vacancy left by Jordan Ackerman, who left to become principal of Armada High School.

“I simply want our student-athletes and coaches to build a rich, full experience through athletics,” DeMare said of his vision for the athletic department. “I want them to enjoy some well-deserved normalcy with full attendance and support from the Oxford community.”
DeMare was selected from among 57 applicants. “The level of experience in our candidate pool was very impressive!” OCS administration said in a statement. “Our process involved three rounds of interviews comprised of 19 unique committee members that included many diverse members of our staff. We are excited to welcome Tony DeMare to our administrative team.”
DeMare earned a master’s degree in Athletic Administration from Wayne State University, and a master’s in Educational Leadership from the Madonna University. He served as the Athletic Director for Divine Child High School in Dearborn, Westminster Academy in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and most recently at Bishop Foley High School in Maddison Heights.
The upper school principal of Westminster Academy, Dr. Ron Farrar, described DeMare as having impeccable integrity and someone who is a “man of his word,” according to the hiring recommendation sent to the school board. He went on to describe DeMare as someone who is consistent, efficient, hardworking, respected by coaches, and is an advocate for all.
During his career, DeMare has earned many accomplishments including awards such as induction into the Michigan Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame in 2014, State of Michigan Coach of the Year, League Athletic Director of the Year and League Coach of the Year. While at Divine Child, he coached the school’s baseball team to Division 2 state championships in 2004, 2005, 2008 and 2010.