What does a high school athletic director do?

I'm curious about what being a high school athletic director involves. Could anyone explain the main responsibilities and tasks in this role? Is it something that requires specific qualifications or experience within school sports?

At a high level, a high school Athletic Director (AD) is responsible for overseeing an institution's athletic programs. They manage and coordinate all aspects of both intra-school (where students of the same school compete against each other) and inter-school (where students from different schools compete) athletic competitions.

When it comes to specifics, the Athletic Director ensures that all athletic programs comply with state, local, and school district regulations. They are also responsible for managing the budget for sports programs, ensuring funds are allocated wisely for uniforms, equipment, transportation, and facilities.

When it comes to personnel management, they hire, train, and supervise coaches, schedule games and practices, and often work to resolve any sports-related disputes that may arise. They may also work closely with school administrators to develop and revise athletic policies and guidelines. Furthermore, they have a role to play in ensuring the health and safety standards in sports activities, with a focus on reducing the risk of athlete injuries.

As for qualifications, a candidate for an Athletic Director position typically possesses a Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Physical Education, or a related field. Many also have a background in teaching or coaching. It's vital to have a solid understanding of athletic administration, state and local regulations for athletic programs, and preventative measures for sports injuries. Communication, leadership, and organizational skills are crucial too.