After 24 years of service, Washington Township High School Athletic Director Kevin Murphy will be retiring from his position, effective Monday, Aug. 31.
Murphy began his tenure with WTHS in the fall of 2002. Before taking over as athletic director, he had 16 years of collegiate and interscholastic athletic experiences, according to the school district’s website.
His tenure saw a variety of championships and achievements brough to the school. Among which was WTHS’s varsity football team winning its first ever state championship last November, capping off an undefeated season for the team.
Murphy was also named to the Gloucester County Sports Hall of Fame, as part of the Class of 2025, this past October.
“Kevin is one of the finest athletic directors that we could ever have had,” said District Superintendent Eric Hibbs at the June 30 school board meeting, which Murphy attended. “Knowledgeable about kids, coaching, sportsmanship. Just an overall gentleman and Washington Township was really truly blessed to have such an advocate for so many years. Watching over all of our young men and woman in all of our sports.”
While some will remember Murphy for the achievements he brought to the school, others, according to Washington Township Council President Peter Del Borrello, will remember him for his impact on those around him.
“The wins, championships and accomplishments are certainly worth celebrating,” Borrello explained, “but Kevin’s greatest achievement is the positive influence he has had on thousands of lives. Through his leadership, integrity and commitment to excellence, he has inspired students to become better teammates, better leaders, and better people.”
Others outside of the school district, such as the police department, also gave credit to Murphy for his work and support of the community.
“Kevin has also been a tremendous supporter of the Washington Township Police Department,” the WTPD said in a statement on social media. “Whether coordinating athletic events, graduations, school functions or other Washington Township activities, he was always a trusted partner who worked closely with our police officers to ensure WTHS and school events were safe and successful. His respect for law enforcement and willingness to collaborate never went unnoticed.”
Murphy’s successor has not yet been named by the school district. They will most likely be announced at some point after the effective retirement date.
“Kevin,” Hibbs said, “you are going to be missed.”
WTHS Athletic Director Kevin Murphy’s tenure as athletic director was marked by several championships across multiple sports, and was cited as being a good influence to students and staff alike.
