Former Groves athletic director celebrated for many years of service
BIRMINGHAM — Though his retirement is in full swing, Tom Flynn, the former athletic director for Wylie E. Groves High School, remains a valued member of the school’s athletic department and the county’s athletic director association.
Published February 5, 2025
BIRMINGHAM — Though his retirement is in full swing, Tom Flynn, the former athletic director for Wylie E. Groves High School, remains a valued member of the school’s athletic department and the county’s athletic director association.
Flynn was recently recognized for 24 years of service by the Oakland County Athletic Directors Association, a group of athletic directors who give out awards each year. He received a service award as well as a lifetime achievement award. The awards recognize his dedication and contributions to Oakland County Athletic Directors Association.
Ever since his first meeting when he was nominated to be secretary, Flynn has been deeply involved with Oakland County Athletic Directors Association. Following his role as secretary, Flynn became the vice president, president, and then the treasurer.
Flynn retired from his position as Groves’ athletic director last June. The torch was then passed on to Ross Gauthier, who became Groves’ athletic director last August.
Gauthier commended Flynn for the assistance that he has provided during the transition.
“Since I’ve been here, he has been extremely helpful and has been a great mentor. He’s just a phone call away,” Gauthier said. “He’s a salt-of-the-earth type (of) guy and willing to help anybody with anything.”
While Flynn spent 24 years as the athletic director, his history of working at Groves High School actually goes back 34 years. He started in 1990 as a substitute teacher and athletic trainer.
During his time with Groves High School athletics, many teams excelled in district and statewide competitions. For instance, in 2021, the boys tennis team won the Division 2 state championship. However, as Flynn looks back, his pride is focused on the kids and coaches that have been a part of Groves High School.
“The biggest accomplishment is the kids that go through the program, the kids that grow from freshmen to seniors and represent Groves High School through the world of athletics,” Flynn said. “That’s my greatest achievement. It’s not about me, it’s about the kids. We wouldn’t have the job if it wasn’t for kids.”
Flynn added, “We’ve had a lot of great coaches go through there, and a lot of them are still there.”
The Oakland County Athletic Directors Association is recognizing and celebrating all of Flynn’s hard work and dedication to his job via presenting him with the awards.
