Gary Link to Step Down at the End of the School Year


COLUMBIA — Fr. Tolton Catholic High School Athletic and Activities Director Gary Link informed school officials that he would not be returning next school year. 

“It has been a great privilege to serve as Athletic and Activities Director at Fr. Tolton Catholic High School,” Links said. “I want to thank those who have given me the opportunity to be a teacher, coach, and administrator at this amazing school. I’m especially grateful to have had the honor of interacting with so many outstanding students, student-athletes, coaches, and staff and I’m thankful for the numerous achievements we’ve collectively attained.”

“I take considerable satisfaction in the way Fr. Tolton tackled the many challenges presented to us along the way, staying true to our core values in helping each and every student to develop in spirit, heart, mind, and body. I’m filled with gratitude as this chapter of my professional life comes to a close and I look forward to watching Fr. Tolton continue to grow and thrive in the Columbia community.”

Link was appointed Interim Atheltic Director in March 2019 with the “interim” tag dropped that summer. During his three years at the helm, Tolton Catholic won eight team State Championships, nine individual State Championships, and ten team District Championships. MaxPreps recognized Tolton Catholic as the best athletic program in the state for the 2020-21 school year. 

In addition to serving as Athletic and Activities Director, Link also coaches the JV and freshmen boys basketball team. The ultimate team player, Link could often be found supervising the lunchroom, greeting students with a smile in the morning, or subbing in various classrooms. 

“Mr. Link not only made a tremendous impact on our athletics and activities programs during his tenure, but on the lives of our students as well,” said Tolton Catholic President Dr. Dan Everett. “He greeted every student by name in the hallways and was always willing to lend a hand wherever we needed him. His positive attitude, smile and signature line of ‘GO BLAZERS’ will be dearly missed.” 

The search for Tolton Catholic’s next Athletic and Activities Director will begin in the weeks to come.