Paola out as Saint Louis athletic director

After three football coaches in four years, Ed Paola’s tenure as athletics director at Saint Louis has ended.

School president Walter Kirimitsu announced on Friday that Paola will not return for the 2014-15 school year and his duties will be reassigned at the school until a new athletic director is hired.

“Ed contributed to the growth of our students in the classroom and sports field, and worked during a transitional period of a number of capital improvements to our athletics facilities,” Kirimitsu wrote in a statement. “We hope to begin the hiring process as soon as possible, and ensure the integrity of our athletics program for the remainder of this school year.”

Paola took over for Ulima Afoa in 2010 after being a volunteer equipment manager for the football team and coaching junior varsity baseball and intermediate golf. He previously served as the school’s science department chairman.

“Leadership just decided they wanted to make a change,” Paola said. “I kind of had a feeling it was coming. I thought I would finish the year, so I was surprised they moved so quickly. But it happens all of the time, and I have no ill will for the school. I learned long ago that when one door closes another door opens.”