STATE COLLEGE — The State College Area School District Board of Directors approved Loren Crispell as the new district athletic director, on Monday, Feb. 17.
Crispell graduated from State College Area High School in 1996. He returned to Happy Valley to work as the assistant athletic director for the district in 2017. His role included the co-management of 77 teams including 1,806 student athletes from grades seven through 12, and 133 coaches across 32 different sports.
“Having been a dedicated life-long member of our community, Loren brings a deep understanding of our school’s values and mission,” Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education Jonathan Bucher said.
“He is not only familiar with the culture and needs of our schools but also genuinely passionate about fostering the growth and success of the next generation of student-athletes. We are confident that his commitment, experience, and long standing connection to our community will further strengthen our team.”
Crispell was tasked with creating team schedules, overseeing the staff and planning home games, hiring coaches and much more. He also advised State High clubs and activities, overseeing budgets, purchases and logistical support.
During his time as assistant athletic director, Crispell helped start the ninth grade girls basketball, junior varsity/varsity girls wrestling, unified bocce programs and formed the Pride, Unity, Leadership, Service, Excellence (PULSE) student leadership team.
“I am so grateful for this opportunity to serve the students, coaches and families within the State College Area School District,” Crispell said.
“It is an honor to follow in what is a long line of strong leaders in this position, and appreciate the rich tradition of success and excellence that they have created over so many generations. We have exceptional students and coaches within our district, and the chance to unite tremendous resources with dynamic leaders is one that I embrace. I look forward to working to create opportunities for long-term success for our students each and every day.” The former Mid Penn Conference softball chairperson is expected to start this spring, allowing an overlapping transition with current athletic director, Chris Weakland. Weakland is retiring in June.
