Cheshire Academy announces new coaches, including former pro baseball player Brian Looney

Cheshire Academy Announces New Coaching Staff, Including Former Pro Baseball Player Brian Looney

CHESHIRE, Conn. — On Thursday, August 4, 2026, Cheshire Academy unveiled a comprehensive overhaul of its athletic department, naming a slate of new coaches ahead of the upcoming 2026‑27 school year. The most high‑profile addition is former Major League Baseball pitcher Brian Looney, who will take over as head coach of the Academy’s varsity baseball team.

Looney, a 1999 graduate of Cheshire Academy, spent eight seasons in the majors with the New York Mets and Boston Red Sox, compiling a 3.45 ERA and a reputation for mentoring young talent. He returned to his alma mater after a successful stint as a pitching coach at a Division I college program, citing a desire to give back to the community that launched his career.

In addition to Looney, the academy announced several other hires designed to strengthen its competitive edge across multiple sports:

• Emily Rivera – Head Coach, Girls’ Soccer. Rivera brings five years of experience leading a state championship team at a rival prep school.
• Marcus “Mack” Thompson – Defensive Coordinator, Football. A former NCAA All‑American linebacker, Thompson will focus on revamping the Academy’s defensive schemes.
• Dr. Samantha Lee – Director of Strength & Conditioning. Lee, a certified sports scientist, will implement data‑driven training programs for all varsity athletes.
• Jenna Patel – Head Coach, Women’s Basketball. Patel previously served as an assistant coach at a top‑ranked women's college program.
• Tyler Grant – Head Coach, Track & Field. Grant is a former Olympian sprinter who will oversee both sprint and distance programs.

Principal David Whitaker praised the new hires, stating, “Our goal is to provide student‑athletes with the highest caliber of mentorship both on and off the field. Coach Looney’s professional experience, combined with the expertise of our other new staff, will elevate Cheshire Academy’s athletic program to new heights.”

Looney expressed enthusiasm about returning to Cheshire, noting, “I’m thrilled to be back where it all began. My focus is on developing well‑rounded players who excel academically and athletically, and I can’t wait to start shaping the next generation of Wildcats.”

The academy’s athletic department also announced upgrades to its facilities, including a renovated baseball field with state‑of‑the‑art lighting and a new weight‑training center slated for completion before the fall season.

Student‑athletes and parents will meet the new coaching staff at a town‑hall meeting scheduled for August 12 at the academy’s gymnasium. The event will provide an opportunity for the community to ask questions and learn more about the upcoming season’s goals and expectations.