Behind every game day, there is a team of people planning every detail from event logistics to post game cleanup.
Assistant Director of Athletics Jennifer Johnson takes on a major role in planning.
“My primary job is to help balance the school calendar and to make sure that we are not putting athletes in conflict between things that are going on in school and athletics,” Johnson said. “We work closely with security so they can open the gates and manage parking and the crowds. The heads of programs are also key people involved in making things run smoothly.”
Head Athletic Trainer Madissen Davis begins each game day by making sure athletes are properly hydrated, have access to water and are ready to compete.
“I make sure water cows are set up on all outdoor fields and that indoor sports have water stands available,” Davis said. “I also ensure each game site is equipped with first aid kits and emergency equipment.”
Davis constantly checks in on teams to make sure everyone is staying safe to build trust and let athletes know she is available.
“My first general step is creating a safe environment,” Davis said. “My role is to remain active and present, continuously making rounds so the girls and teams see me and know I’m monitoring every activity. I evaluate and treat injuries, assist with rehab and recovery and foster a good environment that shows I care about [the girls’] well-being.”
Basketball Referee Richard Davis, who often helps run Hockaday games, realizes that communicating with his coworkers will ensure a smoothly run game. Davis enjoys his job and takes on a role as a key person in managing games.
“Communication is key,” Davis said. “[The referees] keep control of the game through communication, knowing the rules and the sport of basketball.”
For Davis, managing a game is not necessarily the hardest part. He understands that fairness in a game is one of the most important components.
“There is no hard part of managing the game if you know the rules,” Davis said. “If you’re fair and you know the sport, it’s like a painting. Basketball to me is like an art, and if you see the entire painting, there is no specific hard part.”
Assistant for Athletic Operations Emily Zaslawsky oversees many moving parts when it comes to the preparation for game day.
“I mainly work with scheduling, coordinating with security and equipment management,” Zaslawsky said.
While some may not realize it, many people across the school are involved, including athletic department heads, coaches and security. Along with these people coordinating with others throughout the school, parent and staff volunteers, the maintenance and facilities departments and housekeeping also play a big role in allowing athletic events to happen.
“One of the greatest things about athletics being a cornerstone here is that everyone is so willing to help and try to make the experiences and games as impactful as possible for the fans, athletes and coaches,” Zaslawsky said.
