TA News

After six years at the helm of Panther athletics, Blendon Salls is stepping down from the AD role at Thetford Academy to pursue new career opportunities. Blendon’s deep knowledge and love of sports, along with his strong relationship-building skills, helped the TA athletic program stay strong and increase student participation.

Blendon’s can-do attitude was a boon to the TA athletic programs and they thrived under his leadership.

During Blendon’s tenure, Panther varsity teams won 12 state championships in cross country, soccer, basketball, and track and field. He cultivated relationships with sending schools and welcomed middle school participants to join teams here at TA, added golf and bass fishing to the growing list of options, helped rejuvenate the softball program, and represented TA in a leadership role on the VPA’s inaugural diversity, equity and inclusion committee.

Blendon’s creativity and efforts helped guide the school community through the Covid pandemic. He served on TA’s Covid/Safety Committee and piloted initial efforts with Covid protocols in the Summer of 2020. He supported successful seasons for student athletes despite the challenges of Covid safety limitations, bus shortages, and constantly changing schedules.

Blendon brought a friendly, people-first approach to his leadership. A big strength was his focus on building relationships – with students, coaches, and colleagues. Former parent and coach Jeff Vaughan shared, “I had the privilege of working with Blendon for several years as a basketball coach. He was always very supportive and available with good advice when needed. … He had the ability to connect with student athletes and build good relationships with knowledge and a good sense of humor. He cared deeply about the programs at TA and will be missed.” Student athletes and brothers Finn Linehan (2023) and Knute Linehan (2021) described Blendon as someone who “works hard to help students succeed” and appreciated that he was “always active, running around to connect with all of the teams.”

Blendon will be wrapping up his job at TA this summer. He is pursuing his next professional opportunity and is looking forward to more time on the sidelines in his role as dad. Meanwhile, the search is on for TA’s next Director of Athletics & Activities.