Fork Union Military Academy Announces John Shuman as Director of Athletics

FORK UNION, Va., Dec. 13, 2018 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Fork Union Military Academy postgraduate head football coach John Shuman has been selected as the Academy's Director of Athletics, the school's President, Col. David L. Coggins, announced Wednesday. For the past three years, Fork Union's Athletics Department was under the direction of Brook Berry, who has transitioned to the Academy's Development Office.

"First and foremost, I am honored to be named the next Fork Union Military Academy Director of Athletics," said Shuman. "I would like to thank Col. Coggins and his staff for offering me the opportunity to continue the legacy of great men who came before me: Rosie Thomas, Bill Blair, Micky Sullivan and Brooks Berry. I will work hard to support the mission and values of this school, as well as promote and improve FUMA athletics."

Shuman is coming off a historic postgraduate football season as the squad recorded a 9-0 undefeated record which marks his first-ever undefeated season. The Salem, N.J., native came to the Academy as a postgraduate in 1975 and later joined the staff in 1980 to teach and coach under Red Pulliam.

"I love Fork Union. I enrolled here as a postgraduate in 1975 and returned in 1980 to teach and coach," added Shuman. "It didn't take long to feel that FUMA was in my blood. I met my wife here and raised my family on campus. I've had a 38-year teaching career and was blessed to coach football and mentor hundreds of young men and athletes."

Shuman and Berry will work closely together in this transition that will be effective at the start of the new year.

"I am ever grateful for my assistant coaches over the years," continued Shuman. "Some have been former players, and all have been loyal, supportive and knowledgeable. I can't go without acknowledging my 2018 team, who recently presented us with an undefeated season. It was a great way for me to end this run. THANK YOU! Last but not least, I would like to thank my wife, Trisha, for her undeniable support, as well as my children, Liz, Ryan, Kelly, and Mark."

Berry, who started the Thomas Gymnasium Renovation Project, has raised over $250,000. The Thomas Gymnasium has seen a brand-new court named after the legendary coach Fletcher Arritt, updated baskets (6), scorer's table, padded chairs, wall padding and lobby, as well as a stage modification.

"After working alongside the Development Office on the Arritt Court Campaign, I realized how much I enjoy traveling, meeting with fellow FUMA alums, and sharing my love for this great school with those that feel the same way," said Berry. "I am grateful that Col. Coggins has given me this opportunity to be the Deputy Director of Development/Large Gifts and work with our alumni and supporters to help continue the mission of the Academy for generations to come."

Berry will work under Vice President of Development Tim Reddin.

"I will miss being the Director of Athletics, but I feel like we are making two great moves for FUMA as I transition into fundraising and John Shuman will assume the role of AD," said Berry. "Coach Shuman will be a phenomenal Athletic Director and is someone who will continue to build FUMA Athletics. His knowledge of athletics and love for FUMA is second to none on this campus. He brings history of teaching and coaching that has positively impacted our cadets and their parents. I am thrilled he will continue his lifetime of service to the Academy as the AD."

SOURCE Fork Union Military Academy