Jeff Hester, who has spent the past 12 years as Columbus North athletics director, is leaving for the nation’s top high school sports program.
Hester, 46, was unanimously approved at Monday night’s Carmel Clay School board meeting as Carmel’s assistant athletics director. He was chosen from a field of 172 applicants.
The Greyhounds have won 154 IHSAA state titles. Last month, they were announced as the winners of the 2019-20 national MaxPreps Cup for overall athletics success.
While Carmel has the state’s most state championships, Hester helped keep North in the No. 4 spot for overall titles. During his 12-year tenure, the Bull Dogs won 12 state team championships to go along with 13 individual titles and 11 Mental Attitude Award winners.
"The athletic success that was achieved always will be memorable, but the relationships I have been able to build with the athletes, coaches and community members is what I enjoyed most," Hester said. "Only time will tell of the impact I had, but I hope it is one that is looked upon in a positive light."
At Monday’s Carmel Clay board meeting, assistant superintendent Tom Oestreich read a statement from athletics director Jim Inskeep:
"His background as a leader will bring many new ideas to our athletic department to make it even stronger. Jeff’s personality and positive attitude will be a great fit in the culture established by our coaching staff and athletes. We are excited for Jeff’s future work with Carmel High School, as well as with our student athletes."
Prior to coming to North in 2008, Hester was athletics director at Heritage Christian for five years, following four years as assistant athletics director at that school. The Elwood native earned a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and a master’s degree from Akron.
Hester recently became a Certified Master Athletic Administrator (CMAA) as designated by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association.
Hester will complete his duties at North through June 4 and will start at Carmel on July 1.
"I love Columbus and forever will be grateful for the opportunity I was given to lead the athletic department at Columbus North," Hester said. "I am fortunate to have been able to surround myself with remarkable people who shared the same philosophy of education-based athletics that I hold."
