Mr. Jay Gavin, a proud alumnus of Bishop McNamara High School, returns to lead the boys’ basketball program with a deep passion for developing young men on and off the court. A standout during his playing career at McNamara, Gavin graduated as the 7th all-time leading scorer in school history, earning recognition as one of the program’s most dynamic guards and a respected leader within the WCAC.
Following his success at McNamara, Gavin continued his playing career at the collegiate level, where he made an immediate impact and was named Rookie of the Year, as well as named to the All-Freshman All-American team. His well-traveled college journey exposed him to a variety of coaches, systems, and competitive environments, allowing him to gain a comprehensive understanding of the game. These experiences shaped his coaching philosophy and strengthened his ability to teach multiple aspects of basketball—skill development, film study, leadership, preparation, and mental performance.
Before taking the helm at his alma mater, Gavin spent over a decade as a highly regarded basketball trainer and coach, known for his ability to connect with players, elevate their skill sets, and build competitive, disciplined teams. His commitment to growth, culture, and accountability aligns with Bishop McNamara’s values and his own personal standard of excellence.
As head coach, Gavin is dedicated to establishing a championship-level program rooted in toughness, brotherhood, discipline, and the school’s commitment to educating both the hearts and minds of its student-athletes. He embraces the responsibility of leading the next generation of Mustangs and is honored to serve the community that shaped his own journey.
Jay Gavin serves as the Assistant Athletic Director at Bishop McNamara High School, bringing a strong blend of leadership, program management, and student-athlete development to the Mustangs' athletic department. A proud Bishop McNamara alumnus, Gavin embodies the school’s mission of educating both hearts and minds through his commitment to building competitive, character-driven sports programs grounded in excellence, discipline, and community.
Before transitioning into athletic administration, Gavin built a respected career as a coach and player developer, including serving as the Head Boys’ Basketball Coach at his alma mater. His coaching approach reflects his own successful playing career, during which he graduated 7th all-time in scoring at Bishop McNamara before earning Rookie of the Year honors at the collegiate level. His well-traveled college experience provided exposure to multiple coaching systems and competitive environments, shaping his understanding of team culture, leadership, and holistic athletic development.
In his role as Assistant Athletic Director, Gavin supports the direction and daily operations of McNamara’s interscholastic athletic programs, working closely with coaches, administrators, and student-athletes to maintain high standards of academic integrity, sportsmanship, and competitive success. He is deeply committed to strengthening communication, elevating program visibility, and creating meaningful experiences for the entire Mustang community.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Gavin is a devoted Christian, husband, and father, roles that ground his leadership philosophy and reinforce his belief in mentorship, accountability, and cultivating environments where young people feel supported and inspired. His personal and professional journey reflects a genuine love for Bishop McNamara and a dedication to shaping the next generation of leaders both on and off the playing field.