Taunton Public Schools announced that Rapheal Dowdye will be the new director starting with the 2024-2015 school year. Dowdye takes over for Mark Ottavianelli, who is retiring at the end of this school year after a 22-year career with the Tigers. Below is a release from Taunton Public Schools.
TAUNTON—Superintendent John J. Cabral is pleased to announce that Rapheal Dowdye will be the new Athletic Director for the 2024-2025 school year. Dowdye has over 15 years of experience managing athletic programs, coaching, and leading teams. He is dedicated to helping students succeed and stay involved in the community.
Dowdye is currently an assistant principal at Parker Middle School, where he has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a dedication to enhancing the educational environment. His focus on a positive school climate and culture and innovative approach to discipline led to a 70% reduction in student suspensions and increased student-athlete participation and performance.
Dowdye has a strong background in athletics, including significant contributions to the football programs at the University of Rhode Island, Brown University, Northeastern University, and several colleges in the South. As the recruiting coordinator and linebackers coach at the University of Rhode Island, he implemented practice and game-planning strategies, helped players improve their skills, and managed the recruiting budget and expenditures. He also collaborated with all NFL teams to create comprehensive portfolios for potential NFL Prospects. During his tenure at URI, He coached several players who turned pro.
At Northeastern University, Dowdye was the assistant head football coach. He managed budgets up to $5.5 million and supervised staff on various levels. His leadership and strategic planning were key in creating successful defensive game plans.
“We are excited to welcome Rapheal into this new position,” said Superintendent Cabral. “His experience in both educational leadership and athletic program management makes him uniquely qualified to lead our athletic department. We believe he will continue Taunton’s tradition of athletic excellence.”
Before joining Parker Middle School as assistant principal, he was the dean of students at City on a Hill Charter Public School in New Bedford, where he improved daily operations and curriculum design. His coaching career started at Bethany College, where he helped the team achieve top rankings in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference.
“I am thrilled and humbled to be joining the Taunton Athletic community. The opportunity to be surrounded by so many extraordinary people and help shape future leaders is truly a life-changing opportunity,” said Dowdye. “I am thankful to Mr. Cabral, the School Committee, and the entire search committee for placing their trust in me to lead Taunton Athletics into the future.”
Dowdye has a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Bridgewater State University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Economics from West Virginia Wesleyan College. He is also certified in diversity and inclusion by Cornell University.
In addition to his professional work, Dowdye is active in community service. He has been involved in youth football programs, mentoring, and charitable events.