Pope John Paul II athletic director Rocky Zazzaro resigned on Wednesday, citing philosophical differences with the school.

"I've enjoyed my time at JPII," Zazzaro said. "I've met many good people and great students. I wish the school only the best."

School headmaster Faustin Weber added: "I am thankful for the hard work and service that Mr. Zazzaro has given JPII during the time he’s been with us. I am particularly grateful for his efforts in helping us build the new athletic facilities in such a compressed time frame. I wish him and his family well."

Zazzaro was chosen from 58 applicants last year to become the school's second athletic director.

He succeeded Julie Rollins, JPII’s founding athletic director, who retired as athletic director last June.

Zazzaro arrived at JPII after having been principal at Phoenix School in Crossville. He was the founding athletic director of Stone Memorial High School in Cumberland County, and helped design the facilities and create the athletic program from the ground up.

JPII will begin a search for his replacement immediately. The school, however, is not putting a time table on when its expects a search to be completed.

— From Staff Reports