From the Journal Star....
Richwoods has filled its athletic director position, but has created a vacancy at girls basketball coach.
Todd Hursey, the Knights’ girls basketball coach the last three seasons, has been hired to replace Dan Camp.
Camp is going to Illinois Valley Central to be athletic director there.
“It’s very difficult to not be coaching basketball but an athletic director is something I’ve always aspired to be and I figured now was the time to go for it,” said Hursey. “These jobs don’t come open very often.”
Hursey is the eighth athletic director in the school’s history. His predecessors are Bill Hughes, Bob Baietto, Ty Franklin, Don Wyss, John Cook, Diane Pettet and Camp.
“That’s a pretty darn good list of people,” said Hursey.
Hursey was 79-19 in three years as varsity girls basketball coach and his teams qualified for one supersectional and two sectionals.
A Richwoods graduate, Hursey has coached at his alma mater in a number of sports for 21 years — 18 in cross country, 10 in boys track,two as an assistant in boys basketball, 12 in girls basketball and this year he is a volunteer assistant with the softball team.
“I’m really, really looking forward to working with all the coaches in the building,” said Hursey. “There are 17 sports and 13 head coaches in this building and I have a great amount of respect for them.”
Todd Hursey: Leading Richwoods High School Athletics to Excellence
In the realm of high school athletics, strong leadership is essential to foster a culture of success, sportsmanship, and growth among student-athletes. Todd Hursey, the Athletic Director (AD) at Richwoods High School, Peoria, Illinois, is one such leader who has made a significant impact on the school's athletic programs. In this article, we will delve into Todd Hursey's journey as Richwoods AD, his contributions to the school's athletic department, and the valuable insights he brings to the world of high school sports.
Todd Hursey: A Passion for Sports and Education
Todd Hursey's journey in education and athletics is rooted in his deep passion for sports and his commitment to fostering the holistic development of young athletes. Born and raised in Peoria, Illinois, Hursey's love for sports was evident from an early age. He attended Limestone Community High School, where he was actively involved in various sports, including basketball and baseball.
Following his high school years, Todd Hursey pursued higher education at Illinois State University, where he earned a degree in physical education. His academic journey laid the foundation for his career in education and athletics.
Richwoods High School: A Legacy of Excellence
Richwoods High School, located in Peoria, Illinois, has a rich history of academic and athletic excellence. The school is known for its commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education, emphasizing character development, leadership, and community involvement.
Within this academic and athletic powerhouse, Todd Hursey assumed the role of Athletic Director, a position that would allow him to merge his passion for sports with his commitment to education. As Richwoods AD, Hursey embarked on a journey that would impact the lives of countless student-athletes.
Contributions as Richwoods AD
Todd Hursey's tenure as Richwoods AD has been marked by several notable contributions and accomplishments:
Facility Upgrades: Under Hursey's leadership, Richwoods High School has seen significant facility upgrades, including improvements to athletic fields, gymnasiums, and training facilities. These enhancements have provided student-athletes with state-of-the-art spaces to train and compete.
Team Success: Richwoods' athletic programs have experienced success across various sports, including basketball, soccer, track and field, and wrestling. The dedication and coaching support provided under Hursey's leadership have contributed to the school's strong athletic performance.
Character Development: Todd Hursey places a strong emphasis on character development and sportsmanship. He has worked to instill values such as integrity, discipline, and teamwork in student-athletes, aiming to prepare them not just for athletic success but also for life beyond sports.
Community Engagement: Hursey has fostered strong connections between the school's athletic programs and the local community. This engagement has included community service projects, partnerships with local businesses, and outreach initiatives that benefit both students and the community.
Academic Excellence: Recognizing the importance of academics in student-athletes' lives, Todd Hursey has emphasized the need for academic achievement and has supported programs that encourage academic excellence among athletes.
Coaching Development: Hursey has been instrumental in identifying and nurturing coaching talent within Richwoods High School. His commitment to coaching development has led to the growth of a strong coaching staff that benefits student-athletes.
Todd Hursey's Leadership Philosophy
At the core of Todd Hursey's leadership philosophy as Richwoods AD are the principles of integrity, communication, and a student-first approach. Here are some key aspects of his leadership philosophy:
Student-Centered Approach: Hursey firmly believes in placing the well-being and development of student-athletes at the forefront of all decisions and initiatives. He views athletics as a means to help students grow both athletically and personally.
Open Communication: Effective communication is key to any successful athletic program. Hursey promotes open and transparent communication among coaches, athletes, parents, and the community to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working toward shared goals.
Inclusivity: Todd Hursey values inclusivity and ensures that all student-athletes, regardless of their background or ability, have access to opportunities within the athletic program. He promotes an environment where diversity is celebrated.
Accountability: Accountability is a fundamental aspect of Todd Hursey's leadership. He holds himself, his coaching staff, and student-athletes accountable for their actions and responsibilities both on and off the field.
Continuous Improvement: In the ever-evolving world of sports, Hursey understands the importance of adaptability and continuous improvement. He encourages a growth mindset within the athletic department, emphasizing the need for learning and development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the role of an Athletic Director in a high school?
The role of an Athletic Director in a high school involves overseeing the school's athletic programs, including scheduling games, managing budgets, ensuring compliance with rules and regulations, and providing leadership and support to coaches and student-athletes.
What sports programs are offered at Richwoods High School?
Richwoods High School offers a wide range of sports programs, including basketball, soccer, football, baseball, softball, track and field, wrestling, volleyball, and more. The school's athletic offerings cater to a diverse set of interests and talents.
How can student-athletes benefit from participating in high school sports?
High school sports provide student-athletes with numerous benefits, including physical fitness, teamwork skills, time management, character development, and the opportunity to create lasting friendships. Participation in sports can also open doors to college scholarships and future athletic opportunities.
What role does character development play in high school athletics?
Character development is a crucial aspect of high school athletics. It involves instilling values such as sportsmanship,
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