Out-of-Door football coach takes on new role

LAKEWOOD RANCH — Brett Timmons is living out his childhood dream — albeit on a somewhat smaller scale.

Growing up, The Out-of-Door Academy football coach dreamed of coaching in the NFL and eventually becoming a general manager one day. Timmons may not have landed in the NFL just yet, but the Thunder coach will have dual leadership responsibilities this year after being named ODA’s new athletic director July 1.

“Growing up, I wanted to be a coach in the NFL and eventually become a general manager for an NFL team, so, in a way, I guess on a smaller scale I’m kind of doing that deal,” Timmons said. “It was kind of one of those deals where it wasn’t expected, but I said, ‘OK, let’s rock and roll and see what happens.’ I think it shows the amount of trust and belief the school and the community has in myself to name me to this position.

“The coolest thing about it is the fact that it’s not just me, but a collection of us; and we’re now in charge to change the attitude and culture of our athletic program,” Timmons said. “I think it’s important for young athletes and even younger (children) to see what sports can do for you and how it can set you up for life. Just because you’re not playing in the NFL doesn’t mean you can’t be successful. There are other avenues for success in sports. You don’t have to be out on the field.”

A native of Manatee County, Timmons attended Southeast High School for which he was a member of the Seminoles 1993 and 1994 state championship teams. Timmons went on to play for Tulane University, where he was a three-year starter on the football team, a member of the Green Wave’s undefeated season in 1998 and an all-conference linebacker. In 1998, he also was named to the Butkus Award watch list, which recognizes the top linebackers in the country. Timmons graduated in 1999 with a bachelor’s degree in communications.

Over the past six years, Timmons has led the Thunder to a 39-21 record. Prior to coming to ODA, Timmons was the defensive coordinator for Palmetto High, a graduate assistant coach at the University of Cincinnati and Clemson University and completed a summer internship with the Indianapolis Colts in 2004.

“Brett Timmons is an exceptional leader, coach and motivator, and I know that he will continue to grow and develop our athletic program in the years to come,” said David Mahler, head of school.

“Brett Timmons is a great teacher,” Mahler said. “His teams always play hard to the final play, and they win with humility and lose with grace. Brett is the right leader to continue to grow and strengthen our athletic program to take it to the next level.”

Timmons replaces former Athletic Director Noel Beaulieu, who resigned from his position two weeks ago.

“Noel has worked tirelessly to strengthen our athletic program, and the results of his labor are obvious,” Mahler said. “Thanks to his hard work and dedication, student participation in our athletic program is at an all-time high.”

Upon accepting his new role, Timmons texted Southeast coach Paul Maechtle for advice.

“The biggest thing he told me is time management,” Timmons said. “You have to learn to balance the workload between coaching football and running a whole athletic department. I’m a planner. I like structure. This gives me a good month-and-a-half to navigate the water and see how to manage it effectively.”

Contact Jen Blanco at [email protected].