St. Joseph by-the-Sea names James Munson athletic director

St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School said Dominic Palermo will retire as athletic director and James Munson will take over in early July. The move brings a longtime Staten Island coach and educator to the school’s athletics leadership as the program prepares for a transition. Why it matters: - St. Joseph by-the-Sea is turning to a longtime Staten Island athletics figure to help guide its sports program. - James Munson’s hiring brings a coach with deep local ties, high school championship experience and school administration experience into the role. - The transition could shape how the school supports student-athletes on and off the field. What happened: - St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School announced a change in leadership in its Athletics Department. - Dominic Palermo is retiring as athletic director after years of service. - James Munson will step into the athletic director role in early July. - Munson will serve alongside current Athletic Director Tyler Young. The details: - Father Michael Reilly, principal of St. Joseph by-the-Sea, thanked Palermo for his leadership and said the school looks forward to welcoming Munson. - Munson is a Tottenville High School graduate. - Munson served as Tottenville’s head football coach for 24 years. - Munson finished his coaching run with a 178-88-3 record. - Munson led Tottenville to two PSAL championships and five New York City title game appearances. - Munson coached 27 Division I scholarship players, including four who later played in the NFL. - After his high school coaching career, Munson joined the Wagner College football coaching staff. - Munson also served as Tottenville High School’s assistant principal and athletic director before retiring from education in 2020. - Munson said he is looking forward to the next chapter of his career at St. Joseph by-the-Sea and cited the school’s campus and focus on academic, physical and spiritual development. - More information is available on the school’s website . Between the lines: - The hire suggests St. Joseph by-the-Sea wants an athletics leader who knows local sports culture and school operations. - Munson’s background combines coaching success with administrative experience, which could help bridge competitive and educational priorities. - The school’s emphasis on forming well-rounded students points to athletics being part of a broader student-development mission. What’s next: - Munson’s appointment begins in early July. - The school will move through its leadership transition as Palermo retires and Munson takes on his new duties. - Tyler Young will remain part of the athletics leadership structure during the handoff.