Molloy Announces David Nurnberg as New Athletic Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ARCHBISHOP MOLLOY HIGH SCHOOL WELCOMES DAVID NURNBERG AS ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

Queens, NY, August 3, 2026 — Archbishop Molloy High School is excited to welcome Mr. David Nurnberg as its new Athletic Director, effective August 1, 2026. Mr. Nurnberg brings extensive experience to the role, most recently serving as AD at Lexington Catholic High School in Lexington, Kentucky. Mr. Nurnberg led a thriving athletic program at Lexington that saw its student-athletes win 26 team and individual state championships during his six-year tenure. Previously, Mr. Nurnberg worked as a Program Coordinator at St. Xavier High School in Kentucky, led a Coaching Mentor Program at Father Ryan High School in Tennessee, served as head football coach as part of three successful programs in Georgia and Alabama, and has taught Physical Education and English Literature.

Mr. Nurnberg will serve Molloy’s commitment to meet the needs of today’s student-athletes by building relationships with coaches, students, families, alumni, and the Catholic High School Athletic Association (CHSAA). He will celebrate the rich tradition of Molloy athletics, oversee the scheduling and maintenance of athletic facilities, and lead a restructuring of Molloy’s Athletics Department. As part of the reorganization, teacher and assistant varsity baseball coach Ms. Stephanie Staiano will serve as Associate Athletic Director. Mr. Nurnberg’s arrival and Ms. Staiano’s new role coincide with the complete renovation of Molloy’s locker rooms and athletic offices, which are slated to be unveiled in Fall 2026.

Mr. Nurnberg’s hiring concludes a comprehensive search conducted by Molloy. A hiring committee of administrators, faculty, coaches, and school board members, was assembled to interview and assess candidates, with each committee member bringing a unique perspective to the process. After meeting with a number of impressive candidates, the committee agreed that Mr. Nurnberg was the right choice to lead Molloy’s athletic program into the future.

Molloy thanks Mr. Michael McCleary, who concludes a 28-year tenure as Athletic Director. Under Mr. McCleary’s leadership, Molloy athletics built numerous girls programs following the school’s transition to coeducation in 2000. Sports such as softball, ice hockey, lacrosse, and girls volleyball were added, while Molloy continued to foster the traditions that have made it an athletic powerhouse for generations. Mr. McCleary will continue to serve as a Physical Education teacher and varsity basketball coach at Molloy.

"I couldn't be more excited to be joining Archbishop Molloy High School,” said Mr. Nurnberg. “It is truly humbling to be a part of such a tradition-rich athletics program built by legendary coaches such as Jack Curran, Frank Rienzo, and Lou Carnesecca. Most of all, my family and I are looking forward to being a part of the Molloy community, and cannot wait to start building relationships with everyone in the Stanner Family!"

President Richard Karsten, a graduate of Molloy’s Class of 1981, expressed excitement about Mr. Nurnberg’s arrival. “David is an exceptional athletic director whose core values align with Molloy and the Marist tradition. He is a proud Catholic school educator, a respected leader, and an excellent communicator. In addition, he has a deep understanding of and reverence for our history, and he is committed to celebrating the legacy of our many proud alumni. These qualities are essential for the position of athletic director, and we are excited to see David flourish in the role.”

Principal Dr. Darius Penikas also expressed his enthusiasm. “We are thrilled to welcome David to the Molloy community,” said Dr. Penikas. “David is a leader who has championed the student-athlete approach to athletics. He has a history of driving programs that use participation and competition in sports to develop character, commitment, and faith in students. His programs have always prioritized academic and personal development, produced champions on the field, and empowered lifelong servant leaders in their communities."

About Molloy: Archbishop Molloy High School is a Catholic Marist school that fosters an exemplary education in mind, body and spirit for a diverse college-bound population. Molloy offers a unique, challenging and comprehensive program of instruction, guidance and activities. Here individuals recognize their self-worth and develop a lifetime of Christian values, critical thinking, leadership skills, and service to others. Molloy has a nationally recognized reputation for excellence in athletics with an array of championships, records, and All-American athletes, as well as countless Stanners who continue their careers in college and professional athletics.