Florida High School Athletic Association executive director Dr. James “Roger” Dearing announced his retirement last week. Dearing, who held the role for eight years, will step down once a new hire is made. The FHSAA’s Board of Directors will begin a nationwide search after the next board meeting June 13 and June 14. In a press release, Dearing said it was “simply time” to retire.
“After consulting with my family and my closest of friends, I feel it is in the best interest of all if I step aside, and give someone else the absolute privilege and honor of taking on this role,” he said.
Under Dearing’s leadership, the FHSAA reduced membership fees to $25 per school. He also helped steer media partnerships with Bright House Sports Network and the NFHS Network, making championship games available for viewing online. Moreover, student-athlete participation in the FHSAA’s 32 sports increased by about 33 percent since he was named FHSAA’s executive director.
Prior to working for the FHSAA, Dearing served as Manatee County Superintendent from 2003 to 2009.
