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Athletic director presents growth in participation, coaching development and extracurricular highlights
Summary
The district’s annual athletics and activities report highlighted increased participation, professional development for coaches, club growth and facility considerations, and noted 40 state championships in school history.
Franklin’s annual Athletics and Activities report, presented Feb. 5 by Mr. Smith, summarized participation trends, coaching professional development, competitive achievements and emerging facility and program needs.
Key takeaways: Mr. Smith reported 31 high-school programs (with a note that new clubs can change counts), 208 stipend employees, 40 state championships in school history and 11 conference championships last year. He said six coaches received conference “coach of the year” honors.
Participation and clubs: Mr. Smith highlighted growth in clubs and activities, including Best Buddies (about 40 members), HOSA and FBLA; he noted FBLA is preparing for national competition. Multicultural Club (CultureFest) was called a major community event expected to draw about 1,100 people.
Coaching and officials: The report described new professional-development work for coaches, including a performance and growth tool and a coach-focused culture workshop. Mr. Smith also described a student referee training program that hosted certified referees in classes to prepare students to officiate.
Facilities and emerging sports: Mr. Smith said the district is monitoring the rise of emerging sports such as pickleball, girls wrestling and girls flag football and considering how to align offerings and facilities. He also noted competition from club/AAU programs and the need to evaluate cut vs. non-cut team options and potential intramural alternatives for students who are not placed on teams.
Athletic trainers and safety: The district continues to have two full-time athletic trainers and additional student staff; Mr. Smith said trainers’ presence allowed timely responses to injuries and supports travel for some varsity teams. He said the district plans to expand trainer-led programming on nutrition and mental health.
Fundraising and community partners: Mr. Smith described sponsor relationships (for example, Ascension partnering with HOSA) and recent fundraising projects such as a new scoreboard. He also discussed the Todd Kneeser scholarship and senior signing-day traditions.
Ending: Board members praised Mr. Smith for coaching development and the breadth of student opportunities; trustees asked for advance notice of signing events and additional updates as program and facility planning continues.
