At King鈥檚 Schools, athletics has always been about more than just competition. It鈥檚 about developing character, fostering teamwork, and helping student-athletes grow into the leaders God has called them to be. This year, we鈥檙e proud to share that our very own David Gerig, King鈥檚 High School Athletic Director, has been named the and District 2 Athletic Director of the Year for 2025.
A Recognition Rooted in Faith and Excellence
This recognition is a testament not only to David鈥檚 leadership but also to the thriving culture of excellence, service, and faith that he has nurtured within King鈥檚 athletics program. For families searching for a faith-based high school with strong athletics in Seattle, this award highlights the dedication and quality of leadership that defines our athletic department.
A Track Record of Impact and Innovation
David is now in his third year as Athletic Director after serving three years as an elementary P.E. teacher and six years as a boys basketball assistant coach. In his short time leading King鈥檚 athletics, he has already left an incredible mark. He has revitalized our athletics social media presence, led capital projects such as the weight room renovation and a new scoreboard, developed an Athletics Handbook, improved participation rates, and represented King鈥檚 as a Sea-King Board Member.
Leading Through Service and Relationship
Mr. Gerig is most passionate about serving coaches and celebrating student-athletes so they can explore their God-given talents. He often says, 鈥淎n Athletic Director is only as strong as their coaching staff,鈥� reflecting his humility and commitment to empowering others. His leadership isn鈥檛 just about logistics and scheduling, but about building relationships, mentoring coaches, and reminding athletes that their gifts are meant to be used with purpose.
The Leadership Others See
The impact of David鈥檚 work is best captured through the words of those who serve alongside him.
Joe Stack, Junior High Dean and Head Coach of King鈥檚 Boys Varsity Basketball, shares:
鈥淒ave has been an exceptional Athletic Director, always professional and dedicated. His leadership has helped elevate King鈥檚 High School鈥檚 athletic programs and foster growth for our teams and athletes. Dave truly embodies King鈥檚 values and faith in everything he does.鈥�
Jim Shapiro, Head Coach of King鈥檚 Boys Varsity Football, adds:
鈥淒avid鈥檚 dedication goes above and beyond. He鈥檚 often on campus late or on weekends preparing for events and supporting the team. He leads by example, communicates well, and always puts the spotlight on the athletes and coaches.鈥�
A Community Effort, A Shared Victory
While this honor shines a light on David鈥檚 outstanding contributions, he would be the first to say the recognition belongs to the entire King鈥檚 athletic community鈥攐ur coaches, staff, parents, and most of all, our student-athletes. Athletic Director of the Year isn鈥檛 just a title. It reflects countless hours of behind-the-scenes effort, late nights preparing for game days, mentoring conversations with students, and the vision to keep athletics aligned with King鈥檚 mission: to inspire hearts and equip minds to serve God for His glory.
The Man Behind the Mission
Beyond the field, David brings a love of sports and a well-rounded perspective to his work. He grew up in Denver and is a passionate fan of the Broncos, Rockies, Nuggets, and Avalanche. In high school, he played basketball but also participated in choir and theater, giving him an appreciation for the balance of academics, arts, and athletics in the high school experience. Today, when he鈥檚 not on campus, you can often find him staying active by playing pickleball.
Looking Ahead with Vision and Purpose
As we celebrate this milestone, we also look forward to the continued growth of King鈥檚 athletics under David鈥檚 leadership. His vision is clear: to nurture faith-driven athletes who compete with excellence, integrity, and joy. For families and students considering Christian schools in Seattle with strong sports programs, King鈥檚 Schools continues to be a place where athletes thrive academically, spiritually, and athletically.
Congratulations, David!
Congratulations, David. We are so proud of the way you represent King鈥檚 Schools and grateful for the lasting impact you are making in the lives of our student-athletes.
What Makes a Great Athletic Director?
Great athletic directors do far more than organize schedules. They:
- Lead with humility and give credit to their teams
- Prioritize the development of student-athletes both on and off the field
- Create strong partnerships with coaches built on trust and support
- Model dedication and service by showing up consistently
- Keep athletics rooted in mission and values, not just wins and losses
David Gerig exemplifies each of these qualities, which is why his leadership is felt so deeply throughout King鈥檚 Schools and why our athletics program continues to be one of the most respected among Seattle private schools with athletics. See more at kingsschools.org.