Tom McGunnigal officially out at St. Bede

Tom McGunnigal has officially been relieved of his duties at St. Bede Academy, Superintendent Eve Postula informed the school’s parents in a letter dated Nov. 23.

“The administrative team remains committed to St. Bede Academy’s mission as a Catholic high school in the Benedictine tradition, which endeavors to prepare students for college and life by welcoming them into a community of learning permeated by Christian values,” the letter read.

The school’s administration has not said why McGunnigal was let go, and Postula did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

McGunnigal was the school’s admissions director and served as the girls basketball coach since 1998-99.

Marcia Wagner and Theresa Bernabei took over the role of admissions director, including ambassador team moderator.

Susanna Prushinski will serve as the Christian Service Program moderator and Jennifer Manning will be the SBASG moderator.

Former IVCC women’s basketball coach Tom Ptak will serve as St. Bede’s girls basketball coach for the remainder of the season.

“This is a challenging time of adjustment for our St. Bede family,” Postula’s letter read. “But I am confident that we will come together and move positively forward.”

McGunnigal, a 1988 graduate of St. Bede, was put on leave days before the season began.

“Information has been brought to the attention of the administration that warrants a thorough investigation,” assistant principal and athletic director Nick McLaughlin said at the time. “We are committed to maintaining a positive, healthy and supportive learning environment for all students.”

McGunnigal, who was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2019, led the Bruins to a 434-242 record, eight regional championships and one sectional title.