By Sergio Paredes
Introduction to Showcase website:
Welcome to THSADA Showcase presented by Dairy Max. In this section we feature some of the various Assistant Athletic Director’s throughout the State of Texas. The purpose of this is so that our THSADA members can become familiar with and get to know a little more about the Assistant Athletic Director being featured. We ask a set of questions, and with each question answered, our members will be able to see in-depth how they got to where they are now, and some interesting facts about what they do. We hope you enjoy getting to know a little more about the several Assistant Athletic Directors that work to the best of their ability to provide their school districts with the best resources possible.
Dena Scott
Fort Bend ISD – Assistant Athletic Director
Rodney Chant Director of Athletics
Quote on Ms. Dena Scott:
“Dena Scott is a valuable member of our Fort Bend ISD Athletic team. Dena is a Fort Bend ISD product and has a passion for athletics in this district. Through her tireless leadership the district continues to move forward in providing our athletes with the best facilities, equipment and coaches in the Houston area. Dena has been working to host an outstanding TGCA Satellite clinic that we will be hosting June 12th and 13th here in FBISD.”
Background:
Athletics has always been a big part of my life. Some of my fondest memories growing up are from when I was a part of a sports team. I think it was only natural for me to take that love I had for sports and follow the career path of teacher/coach and now Athletic Administrator. For the past 15 years, I have been working in the same district where I grew up and made those memories. In fact, my first job in FBISD was at a middle school where I taught PE/Health, was the Girls Athletic Coordinator, and coached alongside one of my former middle school coaches. Then, I was given the opportunity to work at my former High School. At Dulles, I coached with my former volleyball coaches. These great coaches not only mentored me when I was a student athlete, they supported me when I played collegiately at Syracuse University, and they guided me as I transitioned to my new role as a coach.
Q & A:
Q: As an Assistant Athletic Director, what are your day-to-day tasks/responsibilities?
A: My day-to-day tasks and responsibilities vary as an Assistant Director of Athletics. I always try to have a plan of what I need to accomplish for the day, but as many in Athletic Administration already know, that plan can change when the phone rings or when you receive an email. For the most part, I spend my day helping student athletes, maybe not directly, but indirectly. A big part of my job is the ordering of equipment and supplies. Working with coaches and vendors to stay within a budget but still provide program needs can be challenging at times. I also manage some of our sports programs. For example, I oversee the head coaches meetings to go over policies and guidelines, assist with scheduling, provide support to our coaches, and attend contests. When we host games in our district facilities, I provide assistance with getting ticket sellers, game workers, and help with any issues that arise. Providing our coaches growth opportunities in their profession is also a very important part of my job. We work with outside organizations like PCA and the NIAAA to bring valuable professional development sessions to our staff.
Q: What advice would you give someone who is aspiring to be an Athletic Director?
A: Advice that I would give someone who is aspiring to be an Athletic Director is to get as much on the job experience as you can prior to becoming an Athletic Administrator. This will help you build your resume as well as help you decide if this is the right career path for you. I was able to intern with our Athletic Department and it was very beneficial. Not only was I able to add this experience to my resume, I was able to see the day-to-day operations of the athletic department. For me, this internship opportunity reassured my desire to move into Athletic Administration. I would also recommend volunteering your time to assist with district athletic events. In our district, we provide many opportunities for aspiring athletic administrators to gain experience.
Q: What are some things you enjoy most about your job?
A: I enjoy several things about my job, but most of all I enjoy watching our student athletes compete. When attending athletic events, I sense the excitement of the fans, I see the coaches focused on their game plan, and I observe the athletes doing what they love and that is competing. It reminds me of when I was a student athlete as well as when I was coaching. Nothing beats being part of an athletic program. I get excited for our athletes and coaches knowing how much hard work and preparation went into getting to that contest.
Q: How have previous positions you have held prepared you to be an Assistant Athletic Director?
A: I have held several positions in the past that have prepared me to be an Assistant Director of Athletics. I began my teaching career as an elementary PE teacher. Then, I taught PE/Health, was the Girls Campus Coordinator, and coached several sports at the Middle School level. When I moved to High School, I first taught journalism and coached (voluntarily until a paid position became available). I then became the Varsity Volleyball coach and before I moved into Athletic Administration, I was the PE Department Head and Girls Campus Coordinator. I think my experience with PE/Health at all levels helped me because most athletic administrators have some kind of PE/Health responsibility. My role as a Campus Coordinator provided me opportunities to work with our athletic department. My responsibilities included managing all home games (ticket reconciliation, game workers, administrator on duty, etc.). I was also the liaison between my campus and the athletic department
