From practices after school to games throughout the week, athletics are a steady presence at Frankfort High School. Athletic Director Jeff Irwin has spent his first year listening and shaping a plan that fits those programs. When he first stepped into the role, Irwin spent time meeting with coaches, staff, and others connected to the programs. He wanted a clear picture of what was working and what needed attention. That feedback turned into a five-year plan focused on a few key areas: coaching, funding, youth programs, facilities, and training. One of the biggest priorities has been coaches. “I want us to hire and keep good coaches,” Irwin said. “They set the tone for everything.” At the same time, the district is working to better support programs financially through a developing sponsorship effort. There’s also a push to strengthen youth opportunities in each sport, with the goal of helping students build skills and stay connected to athletics as they move up through the schools.
Facilities are another key part of the athletics conversation. Most of the district’s recent construction work has focused on updating classrooms and school buildings. Athletic spaces haven’t seen the same level of updates yet. A proposed 2026 bond would begin to address that, with plans to improve the high school pool and add synthetic turf to the football, baseball, and softball fields, along with updates around those areas. For student-athletes, those changes would show up in simple ways. Practices and games wouldn’t need to be canceled as often after rain. Teams would have more consistent access to their spaces. Youth programs could use the fields more without worrying about wear and tear. A new weight room would also support a push to expand participation in Advanced Physical Conditioning. Irwin sees that as key to helping student-athletes compete against top schools and stay healthy.
For Irwin, athletics play a bigger role than what happens during a game. “Athletics is the front porch to a school,” he said. “It’s what everyone sees.” That shows up on Friday nights, at weeknight games, and in day-to-day work behind the scenes. When programs are steady and supported, it builds pride across the school and the community. As we look ahead, the focus is on making sure our student-athletes and coaches are supported while creating spaces that meet the needs of our programs and community.
