District introduces Patrick O'Neil as new director of athletics and wellness

Superintendent Dr. Nicholl introduced Patrick O'Neil to the board and public on Aug. 27 as the district's new director of athletics and wellness. Dr. Nicholl said a full-time athletics and wellness position had been approved about three years earlier and that the hiring process yielded more than 30 applicants; an interview committee including parents, student-athletes, teachers, administrators and coaches narrowed the field to two finalists before the administration and board interviewed the finalists. Dr. Nicholl said the committee recommended O'Neil. In brief remarks, O'Neil thanked the interview committees and his family and said he was honored to take the role. “Together, we're going to ensure that our programs not only foster competitive excellence, but also nurture the health, wellness, and character of every student,” O'Neil said. He praised predecessor Anderson Rollins for establishing policies and practices over the past three years and said he intends to build on that foundation, listen, learn and work with coaches, teachers and families. The introduction was informational; no formal board vote on the hire was recorded at the Aug. 27 meeting.