Movers and Shakers: Braden River High Stays Close to Home to Find New Athletic Director

BRADENTON – Following a search that was open to candidates nationwide, Braden River High School didn’t have to go far to select its new Athletic Director: current Braden River High Guidance Counselor and Varsity Boys Basketball Coach Matt Nesser. Mr. Nesser replaces Bob Bowling who retired at the end of August. Mr. Bowling spent more than three decades in high school athletics and had been Athletic Director at Braden River High since the school opened in 2005.

Mr. Nesser has also been at Braden River High since its inception. Prior to joining the staff at Braden River, Mr. Nesser served an internship as a Guidance Counselor at Lakewood Ranch High from 2003-2005. He has a Master’s of Education from the University of West Florida, and a Master’s of Arts in Guidance Counseling from Argosy University. 

Interviews for the Athletic Director position were held on Friday, September 12, 2014. The interview team consisted of Principal Jennifer Gilray, Assistant Principal Don French, Head Football Coach Curt Bradley, Booster Club President Christian Oberlein, and Dean of Students Andrew Hartman.

“We chose to hire Matt Nesser because of his years of experience with coaching, his familiarity with the Pirate Family, and his proven ability to work with student athletes, parents, and coaches,” Ms. Gilray said. “It is not easy to replace Coach Bowling, but Matt worked closely and successfully with him and considers him a mentor. Coach Nesser will step down as Head Boys Basketball Coach to take this position.”

For more information, please contact Jennifer Gilray at (941) 751-8230, ext. 2001.