The field of athletic administration is one that many athletes dream about. For those with a passion for sports, the chance to facilitate programs that develop athletes of character and produce victorious seasons just can’t be topped. Kate Greabeiel, from Edmonton Alberta, CN, is one of these individuals who has found that athletic administration is the career for her.
What’s Athletic Administration Like in Canada?
Kate is the Athletic Director and Department Head of Physical Education at Lillian Osborne High School in Edmonton. (The school is located just a few hours from the widely known Banff National Park.) Her career in teaching has spanned over 19 years, and she’s served in the role of athletic administration for the past 16.
We asked Kate what it’s like to be an AD in Canada.
It turns out, things are quite different than they are in the U.S. First of all, her PE teaching job is considered her full-time position. Her role as an AD is more of an “extra” for which she is paid a stipend. This makes it difficult for her to prioritize her tasks as the athletic director. Oh, and we should mention — she doesn’t just lead and direct the coaches — she is a coach herself. Greabeiel coaches varsity women’s volleyball, co-ed track and field, and men’s/women’s handball. All of this together creates a full load for Kate.