Episode Details

First Day of Fall Practice: How an AD/Head Coach Prepares & Why Engagement Matters

Dr. Jennifer Rukstad opens the 2026–2027 MSHSAA All-Access Podcast season on the first allowable day of fall practices and interviews Will Christian, athletic director at Lebanon High School and head football coach, about managing both roles. Christian emphasizes the importance of a strong support team, summer preparation in June and July, systematic organization, clear communication, and maintaining compliance with requirements like physical exams, transfers, and safety protocols such as heat acclimation and wet bulb readings. They discuss how Missouri’s school start-date law creates a two-week gap between practice and school this year, offering more scheduling flexibility. Christian explains handling cuts in certain sports by guiding students toward other activities and reinforcing that education-based athletics prioritize engagement, mentorship, belonging, and life impact over championships.