HOWARD — When newly appointed East Knox Athletic Director Bailey Sprague discusses his vision for success, the word “winning” never enters the conversation.
“The winning, especially in small town sports, the winning comes and goes,” Sprague said. “But in terms of success, you want the kids to grow and have those memories so many of us have from playing high school sports.”
On July 10, Sprauge was introduced to the community in his new position. The sights and sounds of high school athletics are nothing new to the athletic director.
“Last year I was the pitching coach for the varsity baseball team and the last two as an assistant coach for the varsity football team. I did spend a year as the head junior high basketball coach,” Sprague said.
“It was an opportunity to be able to advocate for our athletes on a higher level.”
One aspect of his former role made the move somewhat emotionally taxing.
“Leaving the football program was hard, but I told the boys that I was still going to be in their corner, advocating for them, just a little bigger picture and a bit more behind the scenes,” Sprague said. “I just want what is best for them.”
As for improving the programs, Sprague believes a solid foundation was laid for him.
“Scott Brickner had the job before me. I have a lot of respect for Scott,” Sprague said. “He has put me in a good position to be successful.”
Community engagement tops Sprague’s goals
As for the overall goals for East Knox athletics, Sprague would like to see a lot of community engagement.
“The best way for people to give back to the kids and the athletes is to come and support them on Friday nights, Tuesday nights, whenever they are playing,” he said.
The athletic director said he believes it is important that the athletes feel that what they are doing is important and that it is accomplished, not only on the field, diamond or court, but also in the stands.
Just a few miles east of the Bull Dogs’ home is their arch rival, the Danville Blue Devils.
“Putting the rivalry aside, you can’t help but respect what they have got going on over there,” Sprague said. “You look over there and realize that it is a successful program. We are looking to do the same over here.”
Sprague realizes that public relations will be the lion’s share of his responsibilities.
“That is part of my job, getting people to come out to the games and support the teams,” he said.
The toughest part of the job just got a little tougher for the Marietta College graduate, as he is spending time away from a newborn.
“Being away from my family. My beautiful wife was built for this; she shows so much support and grace,” Sprague said. “I just became a father for the first time. The kids are easy; we have the best bunch of kids in the world here.
“It is spending time away from my family that is the hardest.”