News Summary
The Hilton Head Island High School community honored Joe Monmonier, the school’s cherished Athletic Director, during a memorial at Seahawk Stadium. Over 400 attendees remembered Monmonier’s 13 years of service and lasting impact on student-athletes. Former students shared heartfelt stories of his mentorship and support throughout their athletic careers. Monmonier, known for his dedication, compassion, and a love for sports, leaves behind a remarkable legacy that will be cherished by many.
Hilton Head Island, SC – Over 400 members of the Hilton Head Island High School (HHIHS) community gathered at the Seahawk Stadium to celebrate the life of Joe Monmonier, the school’s beloved Athletic Director, who passed away at the age of 53. Attendees, including students, parents, coaches, and teachers, dressed in the school colors of blue, white, and purple to honor Monmonier’s 13 years of service as Athletic Director and more than 20 years at the school.
Monmonier, originally from Baltimore, was not only known for his dedication to sports but also for his love of pit beef sandwiches and the Baltimore Ravens. He commenced his career at HHIHS in 2006, taking on the dual roles of special education teacher and lacrosse coach. Under his guidance, HHIHS became the first high school in South Carolina to establish a lacrosse team, contributing significantly to the sport’s growth in the region.
Throughout his tenure, Monmonier built lasting relationships with many former student-athletes, frequently offering mentorship long after they graduated. His encouraging nature and commitment to their success were evident as he provided specific guidance during critical moments in their athletic careers.
Former students shared their experiences at the memorial, reflecting on Monmonier’s unwavering support and the impact he had on their lives. His coaching style combined firmness with a supportive approach, as he emphasized practice and repetition in drills until players executed them with precision. Monmonier’s dedication extended beyond the field, making annual check-ins with former athletes and guiding them through various life challenges.
Colin Courtney, a coach who once sought Monmonier’s assistance with college applications as a student, noted that Monmonier’s mentorship continued even after he returned to the school as a coach. His blend of tough love and genuine caring made him a standout figure in many students’ lives.
Friends remembered Monmonier as a fierce competitor on the field yet a true gentleman off it. They shared light-hearted stories about his personality, which included a love for playful smack talk and his endearing quirks that endeared him to all. His best friend emphasized that Monmonier taught those around him the importance of expressing love and affection, often parting ways with a heartfelt “I love you.”
During the memorial, attendees participated by writing down their favorite memories of Monmonier, which will be compiled into a scrapbook for his daughters, Ava and Caroline. Principal Steve Schidrich announced Monmonier’s passing on social media, calling attention to his legacy as a champion for the Seahawk community and a mentor for athletic directors across South Carolina.
Recognizing the emotional toll of Monmonier’s death, the school provided counselors for both students and staff, ensuring support was available for those grieving this tremendous loss. Monmonier’s influence on the HHIHS community will be cherished, highlighting the profound connections he fostered in his years of service and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
Monmonier’s commitment to excellence in athletics and his caring nature made him a well-respected figure within the community, and his contributions will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege to know him.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hilton Head Island High School Mourns Loss of Athletic Director
Tribute to Joe Monmonier: A Legacy in Athletics
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Hilton Head High Mourns Loss of Longtime Athletic Director Joe Monmonier
- Wikipedia: Athletic Director
- WSAV: HHI High School Announces Death of Athletic Director
- Google Search: Joe Monmonier
- Island Packet: Obituaries
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High School
- WSAV: HHI Residents Gather to Honor Longtime Athletic Director
- Google News: Hilton Head Island High School
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
