A resolution designating the week of September 14 through September 20, 2026, as "Interscholastic Athletic Administration Week".

Whereas the Senate recognizes that interscholastic athletic administrators are educational leaders, and that the work of interscholastic athletic administrators advances physical, academic, social, emotional, and leadership development through education-based athletics;

Whereas the role of athletic administrators in the educational landscape has expanded far beyond managing sports programs;

Whereas athletic administrators serve as essential educational leaders who shape school culture, foster safe and inclusive learning environments, ensure compliance with State and Federal regulations, develop leadership through athletics, protect the well-being of student athletes, and strengthen relationships among schools, families, and communities;

Whereas well-supported athletic administrators play a significant role in the success of educational institutions by playing a vital role in risk management through emergency preparedness, student safety, and protection of school districts, and through sound leadership, responsible governance, and fostering a positive and effective athletic environment;

Whereas interscholastic athletic programs play a critical role in forming a well-rounded educational experience for students and ensuring that all youth have access and opportunities to participate in sports;

Whereas school sports remain an affordable opportunity for families, as the cost of non-school sports is rising;

Whereas participation in sports is proven to improve concentration, memory, and academic behavior, such as school attendance;

Whereas participation in sports results in higher levels of confidence and self-esteem and reduces the risk of suicidal thoughts and other mental health struggles in teenagers and young adults;

Whereas research shows that participation in sports can reduce the rate of youth violence and crime by providing youth with access to personal and professional growth opportunities;

Whereas participation in sports plays a critical role in the development of leadership skills and resiliency in students;

Whereas interscholastic athletic administrators—

Whereas more than 8,000,000 high school student athletes in the United States rely on the hard work of interscholastic athletic administrators for guidance, coaching, and mentorship;

Whereas the athletic programs led by interscholastic athletic administrators promote values of leadership, service, hard work, and teamwork in schools and communities; and

Whereas interscholastic athletic administrators serve on the front lines of education, creating opportunities that teach civic engagement, character, teamwork, perseverance, and servant leadership while preparing students for success beyond graduation: Now, therefore, be it