Martin High School Athletic Director Mitchell Gabriele has announced he is stepping down from his post after serving the past two years.

Gabiele, who took the AD job at Martin in May 2022, posted his farewell to the community and school in a Facebook post today.

He wrote: “Thank you Martin for taking me in and making me feel like family from the very beginning. You embraced my innovated ideas, supported my never-ending ‘Make It Happen’ Facebook posts, and continue to bleed Maroon and White for all our Martin athletic teams. 

“Students: You embraced change, adapted and accepted the high standard which was set before you. Educational athletics will forever guide you to greatness in your future endeavors. I’m going to miss you the most.

“Teachers and Staff: Outstanding group of educational motivators who spearheaded the positive culture shift in the classrooms and hallways and even better people. Teaching from the heart to each student is a lifestyle at Martin. 

“Coaches: The mentors for life through athletics. There is no better place than the playing surface to mimic life’s adversities. Thank you for believing in my leadership tactics and accepting the pursuit to make it happen for all! Martin is proud to have each one of you coaching our future generational leaders.

“Administrators: Motivate, Empower, Inspire = Dedicated, Competent, Caring, Enthusiastic, and Passionate. You will continue to grow and do wonders for the district.

“Community: Thank you for your unwavering and unconditional love and support for our students, coaches, teachers, staff and school district. The backbone of the school district is the community which surrounds it.

“Athletic Boosters: What growth and incredible strides we have made over the past few years! A group who truly wants the best for our athletes and has demonstrated your ongoing support for all our athletic teams.

“Parents: Thank you for the opportunity to guide the growth of each young adult through educational athletics at Martin.

“School Board: Thank you for entrusting me with the Athletic Department and the mission to put Martin on the Map. Thank you for your guidance, support, and encouragement.

Martin, thank you for a lifetime of priceless moments, special memories, and unforgettable experiences.”

While Gabriele was AD, the eight-man football team won back-to-back state championships.

Before he came to Martin, he coached baseball at Hillsdale High School and Grand Haven High School and he has been a registered MHSAA basketball official.

As a player, he was a standout prep athlete at Hillsdale and a four-year starter at wide receiver and captain for the Adrian College football team.

Most recently, he and his wife have been residents of Holland.