Following a national search, Thayer Academy is proud to announce the appointment of Casey DeAndrade as director of football, head varsity coach, and assistant athletic director. DeAndrade brings a distinguished playing career, extensive Division I coaching experience, and a deep personal connection to the region that makes this moment especially meaningful for the Thayer community.

A native of East Bridgewater, Massachusetts, DeAndrade earned a full scholarship to the University of New Hampshire, where he became a three-time All-American cornerback, three-time All-CAA First Team selection and recipient of the CAA Chuck Boone Leadership Award, given annually to the CAA football player who embodies the highest standards of leadership, integrity, teamwork, and sportsmanship in his academic and athletic achievements. DeAndrade served as team captain for the Wildcats and held leadership roles within the Athletic Department, demonstrating early on the character and accountability that would come to define his career. After college, DeAndrade was signed by the Baltimore Ravens before transitioning into coaching, holding roles as special teams coordinator, secondary coach, and defensive pass game coordinator at both UNH and the College of the Holy Cross.

"This is truly a special opportunity for our family," said DeAndrade. "Being from this area, it means a great deal to come back and lead a program like Thayer. It has always been a dream of mine to coach in the ISL, and after spending time with the administration and the community members I met during my interview process, it was clear that Thayer was the right place for me."

DeAndrade steps into a program shaped by more than two decades of dedicated service from Jeff Toussaint ’82, whose commitment to Thayer football left a lasting imprint on the program, the school, and the broader community. A proud graduate of the Academy, Toussaint gave generously of himself to his alma mater for more than 22 years, and his contributions to the culture and tradition of Tiger football are deeply appreciated. The foundation he helped build is one DeAndrade is eager to strengthen and grow.

"We are incredibly excited to have Casey as our new director of football and head varsity coach," said Athletic Director Bobbi Moran. "The accolades he has received from individuals in the college and professional football community underscore his commitment to excellence. Casey will bring a depth of coaching and recruiting experience to our program, including coaching at two Division I programs at UNH and Holy Cross. Throughout the hiring process, Casey exhibited a commitment to and passion for the future of Thayer Academy football and a willingness to build our Middle and Upper School programs, as well as an excitement for engaging our alumni and community more deeply with the program."

Moran emphasized that DeAndrade's appointment represents both continuity and renewal for the program. "Casey's commitment to mentoring young people, community service, and player development will build upon the strong foundation of Thayer football in the ISL and NEPSAC leagues," she said. "We are excited to welcome Casey and his family to our Tiger community."

DeAndrade's approach to coaching extends well beyond the field. He combines skill development, leadership training, mindset coaching, and habit-building to help student-athletes maximize their potential in the classroom and in life. With deep roots in the area and a genuine enthusiasm for reconnecting alumni and community members to the program, he arrives at Thayer with a clear sense of purpose.

"I am excited to get started, build meaningful relationships, and develop our student-athletes on and off the field, while becoming an active part of the Thayer community," DeAndrade said.