After only a short time as an athletic director at Maine West High School, Darrell Mathis Jr. has received a coveted honor, acknowledged for what his peer ADs have called his unfettered dedication to the job – and to student-athletes.
In a Maine Township High School District 207 news release, officials announced that Darrell Mathis Jr. has been named the “New Athletic Director of the Year” for Illinois Athletic Directors Association Division II. The accolade was given last month by the Illinois Athletic Directors Association at its state conference in East Peoria.
The award is given to a first or second year athletic director, the release explains.
“Darrell is a person of integrity and character,” said Maine East Athletic Director Kendall Griffin. “His unwavering commitment to the values of fairness, discipline and perseverance has inspired everyone around him. He consistently leads by example and is a role model for both students and colleagues alike.”
The award is earned through a nomination and voting process at the IADA division meetings. Mathis was recognized for “exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication and his commitment to excellence,” according to the release.
“In just a short time, Darrell has fostered a culture where every student — regardless of background, gender, race, sexual orientation or socio-economic status — feels supported and valued as part of the Warrior family,” Elk Grove High School Athletic Director Kirk MacNider stated as part of his nomination of Mathis. “His commitment to education-based athletics has ensured that athletics are an extension of the classroom, where life skills such as teamwork, discipline and resilience are taught alongside athletic ability.”
The release states that IADA is an organization with a mission to take an active role in preserving, enhancing and promoting educational-based athletics across the state. The IADA provides professional development for its members in the areas of education, leadership and service.
Working in conjunction with the Illinois High School Association, National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association, National Federation of High School, the IADA looks to create interscholastic athletic participation opportunities for all students in Illinois, according t the release.
