Dear SFA Families,
We would like to share the news that Mrs. Kareen Baird, the SFA Athletic Director, will be retiring at the end of the 2024-25 school year. Mrs. Baird has dedicated over 20 years to youth sports at SFA and in the Memphis Catholic Community. She will be remaining on as the Director of the PAA league and will continue working with ADs, referees and coaches in a new administrative role. We wish her the very best on her new adventure.
With this development, we would like to introduce the NEW faces of Athletics here at St. Francis of Assisi School.
Joining SFA as the new Head Athletic Director will be Coach Kevin Cobbs.
With over two decades of coaching excellence and a passion for developing student-athletes on and off the field, Kevin Cobbs steps in as the new Athletic Director at St. Francis of Assisi—ready to lead, elevate, and promote the Timberwolf spirit. Known for his discipline, innovation, and heart for the game, Coach Cobbs also serves as the Associate Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator for the St. Benedict Eagles High School football program.
As founder of LightOn Training and creator of the S.C.A.T. Development system (Strength, Conditioning, Agility & Technique), Coach Cobbs has shaped elite athletes for over 15 years—combining physical preparation with a holistic focus on character, leadership, and mental strength. His unique background also includes deep insight into the recruiting process from both the coaching and parental side.
At St. Francis, the mission is clear: to Rebuild the Foundation, REIGNITE the Culture, and lead EVERY student-athlete toward excellence—with faith, focus, and fearless commitment. The bridge will be restored, and together, We Will #FindAWay.
A Message from Coach Kevin Cobbs to the St. Francis Community:
I’m honored to join the Timberwolf family and excited for what’s ahead. Together, we will build something special—rooted in faith, fueled by purpose, and driven by unity. Let’s restore the bridge, raise the standard, and always #FindAWay.
Additionally, joining Coach Cobbs as a part of our newly formed SFA Athletic Department in the role of Associate Athletic Director, will be a familiar face from our SFA Family, Mr. Jarod DiGaetano.
Mr. Jarod DiGaetano is one of our fifth-grade teachers here at SFA. He grew up in the city of Memphis and attended St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School until graduating from the 8th grade in 2012. He attended St. Benedict at Auburndale High School and graduated in 2016. Mr. DiGaetano went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) at The University of Memphis.
He brings many years of experience coaching baseball and basketball at both the middle and high school level. Along with his coaching experience, he has a passion and love for all sports and player development. Mr. DiGaetano believes that “sports does more than just allow students to compete but allows them to grow in their communication, cooperation, and stress management skills.” Along with accepting this new role as the new Associate Athletic Director at SFA, Mr. DiGaetano will remain a teacher in our 5th grade classrooms.