By Rich Chrampanis
RED BANK – Red Bank Catholic’s athletic program has been one of the steadiest and most consistent both on and off the field for the better part of three decades and that stability will remain despite a change at the top.
The school announced that longtime athletic director Joe Montano will move into the role of vice president of Operations and Finance following 32 years as the leader of the Caseys sports programs. Assistant athletic director Buddy Hausmann moves into the athletic director role. While there is a change behind the scenes, two things remain constant – Montano will continue to coach the Caseys girls basketball team while Hausmann will still be in the dugout leading the baseball squad.
“Joe has been an asset to the RBC Community for many years building a successful athletic program and serving as a mentor to many of our students. I look forward to working with Joe in his new role. Joe’s love of his alma mater as well as his experience will aid him greatly as he works with the administration to assure the financial stability and future of RBC in providing a quality Catholic education meeting the needs of today’s students,” said Msgr. Joseph Rosie.
Hausmann is a 1998 graduate of RBC who went on to pitch at Seton Hall University and was selected by the New York Mets in the 31st round of the 2001 MLB Draft. He recently picked up his 300th career win as baseball head coach and led the Caseys to their fifth Shore Conference title and a sectional title. He’s also been a fixture on the sidelines of countless RBC varsity sporting events which makes his transition to the top spot a smooth one.
“Being mentored by Joe for all these years has been an honor. He is well respected at RBC, (in) the Shore Conference, and the entire state for our school’s outstanding athletic program. It is a privilege to assume this new position and pass along my experience both on and off the field to students at my alma mater,” Hausmann said. “I look forward to further developing RBC’s athletic program and helping to create and inspire Casey athletes for years to come.”
“Buddy Hausmann has been a part of the fabric of RBC for a long time,” said RBC Principal Karen Falco. “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Buddy as a student in my class, as a new teacher, coach and assistant athletic director. I feel that Buddy’s moral character, calm nature, and Casey pride make him the perfect candidate to head our athletic program and I look forward to his leadership.”
The article originally appeared in the July 20 – 26, 2023 print edition of The Two River Times.
