While Loomis Chaffee students cheer for their classmates and peers at sports games, few realize that the real game changer often stands off the field, court, or pool. Coach Adrian Stewart’s presence behind the rehabilitation and recovery of Pelican athletes plays a pivotal role for the entire Athletic Department, as he ensures athletes are not just ready to play, but are safe and confident while doing so.
Many years ago, Coach Stew attended Loomis as part of the class of 1990. In his four years as a student athlete, he earned a place on the Varsity Football, Basketball, and Track teams. Coach Stewart expressed that, over his time spent in high level athletics, it was principal to maintain his body at peak conditions for performance. Furthermore, Coach Stewart said, “I was amazed by my own experiences overcoming injuries and [I] loved [the process of] recovering from injuries.” He was specifically intrigued in the systematic manner in which the previous athletic trainers progressed his recovery.
When asked what the most rewarding part about being a rehabilitation specialist is, Coach Stewart said, “I love watching young people develop right in front of me. Helping athletes overcome serious injuries is very gratifying for me.” He explained his love towards the process of accessing an injury to treatment and finally putting together a thorough recovery plan for the athlete. Along with the focus of getting his athletes back out on the field or court, Coach Stewart is very fond of the teaching aspect of his career. To him, having the ability to inform the youth about the proper ways to go about taking care of different parts of one’s body and preventing injury is very satisfying.
Coach Stew also contributes to various aspects of the Loomis community outside of a strength and recovery specialist. Coach Stewart is the beloved head coach of the Girls Varsity Basketball team, which ended the 2024-25 season with an impressive 25-3 record. In addition, Coach Stewart serves as the defensive coordinator for the Varsity Football team in the fall. During his time with the program, Coach Stewart has led a tough and resilient defense and contributed to the production of numerous highly recruited Division 1 talents.
Coach Stewart additionally expressed how his experience as a health professional gives perspective and insight while coaching. “[The Girls Varsity Basketball team’s] warmup routine is directly tied to physical therapy and the demands of the athletes’ bodies. My team’s never missed a lift,” he said when advocating for the importance of his team’s presence in the weight room. He believes this is a large reason for the team’s success and his effective coaching ability.
Coach Stewart’s impact at Loomis Chaffee reaches far beyond the sidelines, through his dedication of recovery of athletes, coaching and mentorship on the Island. His unique ability to blend athletic insight with a profound understanding of physical wellness makes him a valuable piece of the school’s community. Whether in the weight room, on the court, or during action-filled moments in the dorm, Coach Stew’s presence continues to shape resilient athletes and stronger people.
