Champlain Valley Union High School is pleased to announce the appointment of Dominique Bryant as the new head coach for the girls’ basketball program and Shane Bufano as the head coach for the boys’ soccer team. This update was shared on the school’s official social media platforms last Friday.
Both Bryant and Bufano will assume the responsibility of coaching high-profile programs, as both the girls’ basketball and boys’ soccer teams at CVU currently hold the title of Division I state champions in their respective sports.
Bryant will succeed Ute Otley, who recently departed from her position to take on the role of women’s basketball coach at Norwich University. Otley leaves behind an impressive legacy at CVU, having led the team to eight D-I titles, 10 finals appearances, and a remarkable 268-17 record over 13 seasons. On the other hand, Bufano will be taking over from Rob Cole, who recently stepped down after a seven-year tenure that included 93 wins and state championships in 2018, 2019 and 2023.
With previous experience as the associate head coach of the University of Vermont women’s basketball team, Bryant brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. Meanwhile, Bufano has spent the last four seasons coaching at Stowe, where he led the boys’ squad to a D-III title last fall.
Bufano, a 2004 graduate of CVU, expressed his enthusiasm at the opportunity to return to his alma mater, describing it as a dream job. He also mentioned that his time as a student assistant under then-coach Dan Shepardson during his senior year at CVU had sparked his passion for coaching. Bufano also shared his gratitude for his time at Stowe and expressed confidence in the team’s prospects for the coming season.
After taking a year off from coaching, Bryant revealed that she is eager to return to the sport she loves. She expressed her enthusiasm for the new role and her eagerness to contribute to CVU’s championship legacy.
“I have big shoes to fill, but it’s a wonderful community and I’m up for the challenge. The high school level fits perfectly with my life,” Bryant shared. She also acknowledged the successful tenure of her predecessor, Ute Otley, and expressed her determination to build on that success while adding her own unique approach to coaching.
It is important to note that Bryant is engaged to Renee Breault, who is the new athletic director at CVU. Bryant confirmed that Breault recused herself from the hiring process once Bryant had submitted her application.
With these new appointments, the CVU girls’ basketball and boys’ soccer teams are sure to be under the guidance of capable and passionate leaders, each committed to upholding the school’s strong athletic traditions.