By Spencer Bodow

Doug Seagrave is one of the most unique athletic directors Tempe Prep has had. In the past, Tempe Prep has hired its athletic directors from within the community, taking parents and relatives who are familiar with the school and putting them at the head of the school’s athletic department. They were people who were trusted by other parents and knew what they were getting into.

Mr. Seagrave’s story has been a little different. Coming halfway across the country, he has had to become acquainted with a whole new program. Now that he has done that for half a year, he feels ready to move forward with some big plans. The first of which has already started to take shape.

After assessing what Tempe Prep offers its athletes, there was something missing that stood out to Mr. Seagrave. He noticed that if Tempe Prep wanted to compete at a high level, there needed to be a dedicated strength and conditioning program. This is more than just lifting weights. This is a program for athletes to work on balance, agility, and other skills used when competing.

Mr. Seagrave stresses the importance of not only putting in the work, but putting in the work correctly. He wants to make sure the athletes are practicing proper form to get the most out of their effort. In order to implement this, he has lined up an expert to come in and help. Ultimately, the goal is to have the coaches leading their teams, but even they need some training first.

This opportunity has presented itself because our campus is indeed expanding. And although all the space in the new building has been claimed, Mr. Seagrave has found a good spot to set up. The current proposed spot is behind the Zelman Center. With added storage in the new building, the two storage containers back there may become unnecessary and open up space for what Mr. Seagrave needs.

It is clear that Mr. Seagrave wants to win and he knows how to make it happen. “This is what you expect from a professional,” said board member Chad Sampson when he first heard the idea. And although it was fun to have the athletic department run by community members, athletes and fans should be happy with Mr. Seagrave spearheading the department. So while sports are currently crazy this year, it is good to know the future looks bright.