The New Spin
At present, roughly one half of the student body participates on interscholastic teams at the varsity or junior varsity level, while the other half of the students choose a sport to play four days a week on the intramural level. "There is a shift in emphasis on the club and intramural level," says Hudson. "There is much more interest in fitness and lifestyle. Students are eager to learn more about health, wellness, and nutrition." There are now 62 varsity and junior varsity teams that compete during the school year at Exeter. Student athletes can choose from 21 different sports, and the opportunities are not just limited to the students. "One of the wonderful aspects of this place is that so many members of the faculty are involved coaching a sport. I really believe it provides a special link between the teachers and the students," says Hudson. Over the years, the mission of sports has remained constant at Exeter. The school does not play in a league but does maintain strong ties with its peer schools. Hudson emphasizes, "We are pretty well-grounded in what we want athletics to be. We're in a healthy place providing a high level of competition while still teaching sportsmanship and other worthy values." Exeter's athletic opportunities are as attractive to the prep seeking to be part of a JV or varsity team as they are to the one-year senior whose season at the Academy may be a mutually beneficial stop on the way to the next level of competition. Hudson is enthused about the newly redefined department chair. Now the athletic and physical education staff are incorporated into the administration and are more directly connected to other departments at the Academy. "All of the students and a large majority of the faculty pass through our buildings and fields on a daily basis," states Hudson. "I think it is vitally important to have that connection." While Hudson plans to grow with his new post, he will have plenty of company. Dave and his wife Christie have two young daughters Hailey, 2, and Hanna, 3 months, who are new residents of the Exeter community, and they are all excited about immersing themselves into the lifestyle that Dave finds so attractive at the Academy. Hudson enthusiastically applauds Principal Tyler Tingley for the renewed feeling of excitement that resonates from the athletic department across the entire campus. "We're coming off a great year of team as well as individual athletic accomplishments," Hudson proudly proclaims. "It's a great time to be a student athlete at Exeter. There is a great deal of energy and momentum at the Academy and sports is an integral part of that surge of good feeling!" — Mike Lynch
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When Dave Hudson first learned that Exeter was creating a new position of director of athletics and chair of the physical education department, he knew it was time for him to return to the Academy. Hudson's first job out of college was as a three sport coach at Exeter where he served from 1982 until 1991. For the past eight years, Hudson has coached at St. Lawrence University and Governor Dummer. "I missed the total involvement that is a part of the boarding school life, the kids who are constantly striving to achieve and be the best are what brought me back." Dave claims the changes he has noticed since his return are subtle. He is particularly thrilled with the growth, competition, and level of play of girls sports. "Exeter brings out the best that a student athlete has to offer. Athletics here at Exeter are played for all the right reasons. Athletics are just a part of the experience at Exeter, not the total experience." Hudson goes on to say, "Success here is a product of what we are. We do not try to import success." 
A native of Swampscott, Massachusetts, Mike Lynch graduated from Exeter in 1972 as a one-year senior. Familiar to many in the Boston area, he is currently the sports anchor for ABC affiliate WCVB
TV in Boston.