J.C. Commander comes to Bedford after serving for two years as the assistant athletic director at South Euclid Lyndhurst Schools where he assisted in the organization and support of interscholastic athletics at the high school and oversaw junior high athletic programs.

Mr. Commander also played a crucial role in creating and implementing district-led athletic programs for students in kindergarten through sixth grade.

“I intend to build an athletic department at the Bedford City School District on the foundational values of organization, communication, accountability, and adaptability,” he said. “It’s through these values that the Bearcats will ‘restore the roar’ and #CLIMB back to our rightful place as one of the top academic institutions with the most competitive athletic programs in northeast Ohio.”

Superintendent Dr. Cassandra Johnson welcomes Mr. Commander to the Bearcat family.

“We couldn’t be happier to have J.C. as a new Bearcat,” she said. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as well as a track record of excellence to our district. We look forward to him bringing his passion and energy to benefit our students and community.”

During his tenure at South Euclid Lyndhurst Schools, the district saw growth in its athletic programs. Volleyball, football, tennis and soccer flourished in student participation. The junior high also added indoor track and competitive cheer, and other sports maintained strong performances.

Mr. Commander’s  experience at the youth level has seen the addition of programs for flag/tackle football, travel basketball (boys and girls), wrestling, and track. All programs have enjoyed early success as well, posting league championships in football, tournament wins in basketball, and state meet qualification in wrestling. 

Mr. Commander has also been an integral component of numerous athletic youth camps for basketball, football, and soccer while assisting in the planning and execution of showcases designed to promote our student-athletes at the collegiate level.