SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine—It’s with a heavy heart that SMCC Athletics pays tribute to a most cherished member of its family. John Dakin, longtime Athletic Director and coach at the College, passed away recently. During Dakin’s 35 years (1967-2002) at the College, he served as Athletic Director and, at various points, both the Head Men’s Basketball and Baseball Coach. John was instrumental in the planning and construction of the HUB Athletic Center and oversaw the development of the Graves Athletic Field.
Dakin was actively involved throughout the athletic community serving as President of the Maine Small College Conference, a member of the Maine Principals Association and the Western Maine Basketball Committee, and longtime director of the Gold Star Basketball Camp.
As a coach, he amassed 199 wins on the basketball court while leading his teams to five conference championships. On the diamond, Dakin led his baseball teams to seven conference titles.
To many of the student-athletes John interacted with during his 35 years at the College, he was more than just the Director of Athletics. Scott Bessey, class of 1996 and member of the men’s basketball team, recalls the importance and impact that Dakin carried. “From the moment I stepped foot on campus John Dakin put his arms around me,” stated Bessey. “A small town kid moving to the ‘Big City’ was something that made me very nervous. John cared so much about all the athletes on that campus. He was such a great man and great leader because he was never hesitant to show how much he cared for you. I never felt like a bother walking into his office to just vent, or just chat about anything. You work hard for people like that. I played basketball, but one of the main reasons I competed so hard there was because John was watching and I wanted him to be proud. He was a very special person.”
Current Associate Dean of Students and Athletic Director Matt Richards was very thankful for the guidance and support Dakin provided him when taking over the program. “I had known John prior to getting offered the position at the College. When I started, John offered me his experiences and wisdom that were just so very valuable to me as I got started,” commented Richards. “John was such a caring individual and had such a passion for what he did. I often would get phone calls from him with encouragement and praise. He just really cared about people. A sad day for all of us within SeaWolves Athletics.”
In 2004, the Athletic Department named its annual Outstanding Contribution Award in his honor. Then, in 2006 during the College’s 60th anniversary celebration, Dakin was one of the three inaugural Athletics Hall of Fame inductees.
