Red Bank Regional Athletic Director Del Dal Pra is pictured with RBR student athletes Joel Rivera of Union Beach (Indoor Track and Outdoor Track), Hayley Rienzo of Deal (Bowling and Softball),  and Thomas Lloyd of Shrewsbury (Student Athletic Trainer). 

Press release from Red Bank Regional High School

In a year during which Red Bank Regional High School has experienced several sport championships in football, girls’ cross country, girls’ swimming and girls’ tennis, it is only fitting that the 2015-2016 session concludes with the recognition of RBR’s Athletic Director Del Dal Pra as Jersey Sporting News’ pick for Athletic Director of the Year.

Del Dal Pra came to RBR eight years ago. During that time he has been able to establish feeder teams to the high school program with the Little Bucs Program. He succeeded, in partnership with parent groups, to finally put lights on the football stadium.  This year, he helped fulfill a long-standing school-wide need and opened a state-of-the art fitness center, something which will benefit the health of RBR students for years to come.

Del Pra is most known, however, for his dedication and enthusiasm for his job. As testament to that statement, during the month of August Del drives a daily shuttle from downtown Red Bank to the RBR campus in Little Silver, providing access to summer practice sessions for RBR athletes who lack their own transportation. He is beloved by his coaching staff, as well as the students with whom he tirelessly works to improve their performance.

Del Pra was nominated jointly for the award by RBR Principal Risa Clay, Athletic Director Christina Emrich, athletic department secretary Denise Jadevaia, and his entire coaching staff. His colleagues wrote of the RBR athletic director, “Del has an open door policy like no other; student athletes and colleagues are welcome throughout the day at all times. He is never too busy to answer a question, take a phone call or offer support… He touches and impacts more lives in the course of a year than most people do in a lifetime.

“He lights up when he discusses RBR, the home of the BUCs,” the nominators continued. “Del’s blood isn’t red; it runs maroon.”

“Watching our athletes grow from wide-eyed freshman to capable, mature, dedicated and enthusiastic young men and women is astonishing to me,” commented Del Pra in a statement. “Seeing a coach struggle through a difficult season and return the next year with renewed enthusiasm, drive, determination, and optimism is inspirational to me as a person.

“When a student athlete and/or coach reaches or surpasses their goals and expectations is thrilling, heartwarming, and a joy to experience,” he continued. “I am humbled by this award and very thankful to hold the position of Athletic Director at Red Bank Regional for the last eight years; it is a fantastic place to call home.”