A Day in the Life of an AD: Afternoon Sprint
As we continue on in our “A Day in the Life of an AD” blog series, we will jump right in where we left off, it’s lunch time!
AFTERNOON SPRINT
11:00 AM: School Lunches
This is a perfect opportunity to interact with students; chat with student-athletes about the game last night or check in on how a student is feeling about their grades. Connecting with students is the best part about being an Athletic Director, and any extra time with students can be used to build relationships and a sense of community at your school. If you need to make any phone calls this may be an ideal time as well since you are away from your desk. Cue multitasking.
The next part of the day is where things start picking up quickly. Coaches, students, and teachers will ask questions. There will be constant interruptions. This is when multitasking, and staying focused and prioritized become an important skill for ADs. There will be thing that will pop up that need immediate attention, so trying to keep up with the day’s tasks when possible is essential to remain efficient. Also, don’t forget the AD needs to eat too.
12:30 PM: Athletic Director Necessities
The AD is just getting back to the office from lunch duty and prioritizing what needs to be completed for the day:
- Confirm student-athlete eligibility, academic progress, and physicals
- Check-in with coaches on active or upcoming fundraisers
- Collaborate with teachers, counselors, and school administrator on high priority items
- Promote upcoming games and events on social media
- Secure Officials for weekly games
- Organize buses and transportation schedules
- Confirm gates are set to open
1:00 PM: Tonight’s Event Prep
It’s time to make sure everything is in place for this evening’s games. Starting your pre-game checklist now will help make your events go smoother later on because you never know what will happen between now and then that pulls the AD attention in a different direction.
- Get with the bookkeeper to count the bank and sign out the cash box. Or go digital and skip this step entirely.
- Correct gates/doors are locked/open
- Flag is ready to be put up
- Promote games on social media
- Pre-approved music playlist is set
- Chairs and tables are in place to be set up
- Custodians are aware of the night’s schedules and needs
1:30 PM: Athletic Trainer Time
About this time, most athletic trainers start their day. Touching base with your athletic trainer is a must to maintain open communication surrounding your student-athletes and their health. Athletic trainers are such an important part of the athletic department. They are an added level of safety for students and it’s vital to make sure they have what they need to be successful.
2:00 PM: Off-Campus Coaches
Off-campus coaches will start swinging by the AD’s office trying to get last minute items taken care of before they are off to practices and games. Since these coaches often have day jobs that are off school grounds, making sure they have face to face time with the AD is a priority. These coaches may frequently email, call, and text with the AD to make sure they are following all school policies. Athletic directors usually have two different types of coaches on their staff, on-campus and off-campus coaches. On-campus coaches have access to student grades and frequently see and meet with students throughout the day, off-campus do not have that luxury so sometimes off-campus coaches require more time with the AD.
2:45 PM: School Is Out
The bell has rung, and class has been dismissed. Most ADs have another assignment for dismissal or bus duty. After the campus clears, it’s go-time, and the AD’s job really begins…
Interested in how HomeTown can make your afternoon easier? Reach out to a HomeTown representative to learn more.
