A lifelong passion for educational athletics brings Cole Andrews to Big Rapids High School
For Cole Andrews, athletics have always been about much more than what happens on the scoreboard. His own experiences as a student-athlete, coach, father, and educator have shaped his belief in the powerful role that athletics can play in the lives of young people. Now, he’s bringing that passion and 14 years of experience as an athletic director to Big Rapids Public Schools.
Cole has served as an athletic director at schools ranging from Class D to Class A, giving him a broad perspective on educational athletics and the unique needs of student-athletes, coaches, families, and school communities of varying sizes.
Cole grew up in Boyne City, where he was a three-sport athlete, competing in football, basketball, and baseball. One of his fondest memories came during his senior year, when his football team advanced to the state semifinals.
“I still think of that experience and how that has continued to impact my life,” Cole shared.
Growing up near Lake Charlevoix also meant plenty of time spent boating and fishing—two activities that remain favorites for Cole today.
His path into education began somewhat unexpectedly through his older brother, Jeremy Andrews, a social studies teacher and coach at Watervliet Public Schools. Jeremy coached varsity football for 14 years and gave Cole his first opportunity to join him on the sidelines.
“At 19 years old, I had the opportunity to jump on his wagon and start coaching football with him,” Cole said. “It was a dream come true to have that experience. Since then, we haven’t looked back!”
That early coaching experience sparked what would become a lifelong commitment to educational athletics.
Cole and his wife, Allie, have been married for 18 years and have two sons, Reece and Cam. Reece is an eighth grader who participates in football, basketball, and track and field, while sixth grader Cam participates in football and basketball. Both boys enjoy spending time outdoors, and the family shares a love of fishing, hunting, camping, boating, and being active together.
The Andrews family also includes two dogs, who regularly join Cole and Allie on long walks.
The family has enjoyed some recent adventures as well, including a trip to France and Portugal this summer.
Cole’s connection to Big Rapids is also a family connection. Both of his parents, Paul Andrews and Rebecca Kamptner-Andrews, graduated from Big Rapids High School in the 1970s.
“I can’t wait to see both of my kids run out on the playing field with that Cardinal on their chest,” Cole said. “That will be an amazing but surreal moment!”
Cole says his family is excited to become part of the Big Rapids athletic community, too.
“When I was hired, you didn’t just hire me. You hired my entire family,” he said. “You will see my wife and kids at many Big Rapids athletic events. They love watching student-athletes compete and help in any way they can! You will see my kids working many events!”
That enthusiasm for community is one of the reasons Cole was drawn to Big Rapids Public Schools. He was excited by the opportunity to work in a collaborative environment where school leadership, staff, and the community understand the importance of co-curricular activities in the lives of students.
As he considered the position, Cole was also surprised by just how many personal and professional connections he already had to Big Rapids. He received tremendous encouragement from people in the community, including BR graduate Jake Daugherty, who encouraged him to apply and shared his enthusiasm for the Big Rapids community.
“His encouragement was a huge reason I decided to apply,” Cole said.
The opportunity to serve the community where his parents grew up made the decision even more meaningful.
Cole is looking forward to creating meaningful experiences for Big Rapids student-athletes—experiences that go far beyond wins and losses. Having experienced firsthand the lasting impact that high school athletics can have, he hopes to help provide those same opportunities for the next generation of Cardinals.
Welcome to Big Rapids Public Schools, Cole! We’re excited to have you and the entire Andrews family in Cardinal Country. GO CARDINALS!