It’s easy for athletic directors to get caught up in day-to-day operations of high school sports, so making time for self-improvement is a challenge. Whether it’s during the school year or a slower stretch over summer break. Continuous professional development is fundamental to becoming a better leader, communicator, and advocate for your athletes and staff. Consider the following ways to invest in yourself throughout the year:

Reflect and Reassess Program’s Mission

Growth starts with reflection. Taking stock of your program’s alignment with its mission and values reveals both strengths and weaknesses. This process is valuable any time, but is especially productive at the end of a season or academic term.

  • Review the athletic department’s core principles.
  • Use staff surveys or athlete/parent feedback to inform next steps.
  • Set goals based on what you’ve learned from the past season or school year.

Seek Learning Opportunities

You don’t have to wait for a conference or training day to build new skills. Online and on-demand options make it easier than ever to learn at your own pace. Whether done in the summer or during a lighter month, these programs provide actionable tools you can implement right away.

  • Courses from the NFHS Learning Center or state association.
  • NIAAA certifications such as RAA or CAA.
  • Virtual webinars on topics like compliance, budgeting, or sports psychology.

Build Communication and Leadership Strength

Strong leadership requires clear communication, relationship-building, and confidence in front of various audiences. Working on these skills throughout the year prepares you for parent meetings, media interviews, or administrative presentations.

  • Read leadership-focused books or listen to professional podcasts.
  • Join a Toastmasters group to refine public speaking skills.
  • Increase presentations to your coaching staff or booster club to build clarity and presence.

Connect with Your Professional Network

Some of the most valuable insights come from other ADs who’ve walked the same path. Conversations with peers create connections and spark innovative ideas.

  • Attend in-person or virtual conferences and summits when possible.
  • Set up regular check-ins with colleagues in nearby districts.
  • Engage in online groups, message boards, or social media chats related to athletic administration.

Strengthen Technology

Athletic departments increasingly rely on tech to communicate, schedule, and manage logistics. Improving your knowledge of digital tools helps everything run smoother. Whether onboarding a new system during the summer or refining your workflow mid-year, staying tech-savvy streamlines athletic department operations.

  • Master spreadsheet software for data tracking and budgeting.
  • Explore team and scheduling platforms like Arbiter or rSchoolToday.
  • Develop a strategy for your department’s social media to better connect your school community.

The high school athletics landscape is constantly evolving. Staying current helps you lead with confidence and anticipate change before it arrives. Even setting aside 30 minutes each week to read or listen to a podcast can keep you sharp and inspired.

  • Read up on issues like NIL, athlete mental health, equity in sports, and the growth of esports.
  • Follow trusted publications and organizations that focus on high school sports leadership.
  • Share what you learn with your coaching staff and school leadership to start meaningful conversations.

Invest in Your Own Well-Being

Leadership requires effort—mentally, emotionally, and physically. Prioritizing your own health helps you serve your community better. This outlook benefits you, your staff, and athletes all year long.

  • Develop a regular exercise or stress-relief routine.
  • Schedule time for personal goals and hobbies outside of work.
  • Seek mentorship or coaching to navigate career decisions and challenges.

Setting Time Aside For Yourself

The best athletic directors are constantly learning. Whether it’s during summer break, winter break, or pockets of time during the school year, every moment is a chance to grow. Professional development isn’t just about certifications or checklists—it’s about becoming a leader who lifts the entire program. Investment in yourself is an investment in every student, coach, and community member you serve.