Remembering Former Director of Athletics Jim McNally

Jim believed in the power of sports to build character, leadership, and community. Under his direction, Rivers’ teams won seven Independent School League (ISL) championships and 29 New England titles.

“Jim’s vision for athletics extended far beyond the field,” said Head of School Ryan S. Dahlem. “He fostered a culture rooted in integrity, teamwork, and personal growth. His unwavering support of both the coaches and players was instrumental in the success of the program.” 

Jim launched several key programs at Rivers, including the top girls’ hockey program and Nordic skiing, and was instrumental in the hiring of talented coaches, which helped transform Rivers athletics into an excellent and successful program. Additionally, Jim was at the helm of the Athletics Department during the construction of MacDowell Athletic Center, a facility that remains the hub of campus athletic life. 

Beyond the Rivers campus, Jim’s dedication to youth sports and interscholastic competition earned him widespread respect. He held various roles within the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC), including president, district president, and director of championships, managing and overseeing 81 tournaments and advocating for fair and inclusive tournament selection for schools of all sizes. He was presented with an award from NEPSAC in 2008 for his outstanding dedication to the council and was awarded the Distinguished Service Award in 2018—given annually to an individual who has contributed significantly to the athletics and physical education of New England’s independent schools through enthusiasm, dedication, leadership, and vision—in recognition of his extraordinary leadership. 

Jim also held prominent positions within the ISL, including serving as president, maintaining a vital connection between Rivers and the broader prep school sports community. 

For those fortunate enough to have worked with him, played for him, or simply known him, Jim McNally will be remembered as a mentor, a coach, and a friend. His tremendous legacy lives on in the thriving athletics program he helped create—and in the lives of the student-athletes he believed in so passionately. 

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the McNally family. His obituary and service information can be found here.