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New Athletic and Equestrian Leadership Announced

McDonogh School has announced that Jeff Parsons will be joining the School community as its new Athletic Director, effective July 1, 2025. Further, Bristol Craft has been named Director of Equestrian Programs and will oversee all equestrian operations at the School.

Parsons comes to McDonogh from Archbishop Spalding High School. He brings more than two decades of independent school experience and a proven track record of athletic leadership to the role. Parsons served for nine years as Spalding’s Athletic Director, during which time he enhanced the school's athletic program by strategically managing fiscal operations, facilities, and the coaching staff. His tenure as Athletic Director was marked by exceptional leadership, earning him recognition as the 2018-2019 District 11 Maryland State Athletic Director of the Year. He also served as President of the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) from 2019 to 2021, further solidifying his leadership at the regional level.

“With his experience in athletics and independent school administration, Jeff is well-suited to lead our athletic program into the future,” says Head of McDonogh School Dave Farace ‘87. “His proven ability to build strong programs while fostering a culture of excellence and sportsmanship aligns perfectly with our mission.”

Parsons says, "I am honored to join the McDonogh community and lead its storied athletic program. The School’s commitment to excellence, both in athletics and character development, has always impressed me. I look forward to working with the coaches, student-athletes, and the entire school community to build upon this strong foundation."

Craft has an impressive background in business, equestrian teaching, and equine management. She started her riding career at McDonogh at age seven and in 2013, returned as a Senior Equestrian Coach. For the next three years, she trained young show riders and worked to advance the equestrian program. In her new role, Craft looks forward to leading the School’s talented training staff as they continue to enhance the riding experience for McDonogh’s students in the PE program; lesson program; Middle School, junior varsity, and varsity teams; and travel show team. She will also be responsible for McDonogh’s horse show operations and is charged with bringing the most current industry knowledge to the School’s barn operations.

“Bristol’s deep-rooted connections to the equestrian community will ensure the continued growth of our riders and the success of our equestrian program,” says Farace.

Craft notes, “Returning to McDonogh feels like coming home. This is where my love for riding began, and I am thrilled to lead the equestrian program that shaped my passion. I look forward to honoring the School’s tradition of excellence while building an inspiring future for our riders.”

Welcome to the McDonogh Family.