Editor’s Note: The Peekskill Herald’s “10 questions …”, column is for readers to know more about those who work in city government, own businesses, and support our city’s development. Today’s column features Austin Goldberg, Director of Physical Education, Health & Athletics for Peekskill Schools.

What does the athletic director do in the school system?

Athletic directors are responsible for overseeing and implementing interscholastic athletics composed of students from grades 7-12. These teams compete in various sports throughout the school year. These include football, basketball, swimming, track etc. I very much enjoy collaborating with our amazing staff, teachers, and administrators to support our students and programs. The best part of my day consists of connecting with our students and watching their positive development.

Tell us about your career history – when you came to Peekskill, prior positions, and education.

I was a Division 1 baseball player at the University of Hartford, majoring in Human Services with a counseling background. I received my Master’s degree in Physical Education from Adelphi University and my Administrative Degree from the University of Stony Brook. 

I began my teaching career as a Health and Physical Education teacher over the span of 10 years. Additionally, I had positions as a Varsity basketball, baseball, football, volleyball and soccer coach. I expanded my responsibilities to include Athletic Coordinator during this time.

I became interested in athletics administration through my own experience as a coach and interacting with administrators. I knew very early on in my teaching career that I wanted to be part of the process to make student experiences the best that they could be and to support our coaches as much as we can to provide those positive experiences.

What role do the coaches play in the success of the program?

Coaches play a critical role in the success of an athletic program. We are fortunate to have so many coaches in Peekskill who are invested in building a positive culture and community within their teams. Our coaches are involved with our student success on and off the field/court. 

What role does sports and physical activity play in student development and how do you involve all students? 

I think we do a great job promoting our sports and opportunities for students of all levels and abilities. There’s a very high correlation between academic success and student involvement in physical activity and extracurricular activities. Sports help young adults to develop so many life skills. They teach communication skills, work ethic, commitment and to be team players. We also involve many students in our Students to Athletes Reading to Woodside program. This promotes leadership and gives the younger students positive role models to look up to. 

How has the district administration helped support the athletic department?

I am very fortunate to be surrounded by administrators, from building leaders to superintendents, who know the beneficial correlation between athletics, a positive school community and student success. Additionally, we have an outstanding Board of Education that also knows the importance of athletics and supporting our students and programs. Whenever there has been a program that we wanted to start, such as our Girls Flag Football team and/or our Intramural program for grades 4,5 and 6, our Board of Education and district leaders were pleased to expand our programs and opportunities. 

What’s the importance of culture and school pride and how do you bring that to the district?

Peekskill is a very supportive community and that is so important to foster and build upon. We focus on promoting a positive environment, providing the students with the tools to be good citizens and to represent themselves and our district with pride. 

The pride is evident when you go to a school event such as a concert, show or sporting event. Everyone supports everyone. Each Friday our staff is decked out in red and blue, our school colors. Peekskill Pride is running wild in our community! Go Red Devils! 

What’s the best thing about your job – what’s your biggest challenge?

The best part of my job is interacting with our students. We have awesome students at Peekskill. I enjoy watching them compete on the fields/courts, perform on stage and grow as young adults. 

The biggest challenge is time. I want to be at every team’s game every day and sometimes that is just not feasible. Additionally, balancing time between work and time with my beautiful wife and daughters can be challenging.

What are your primary goals for the upcoming academic year?

My primary goal is to provide authentic experiences for our students and community. Our students will visit colleges to get a real feel for what it is like, involve themselves in giving back to the community, and participate in activities that allow them to be role models for our younger students.

What’s your favorite sport to play and to watch?

I enjoy watching all sports. Basketball, soccer, football, cricket and Australian Rules football are my top choices. Personally, I enjoy playing basketball, softball and pickleball at this stage of my life. Having two young daughters I honestly spend a lot of my time watching women’s sports these days! We love to support the NY Gothams and NY Liberty! 

What would you like to say to the Peekskill community?

Thank you Peekskill for your constant support of our students and schools. We appreciate all that you do for us.

The next Girls’ Varsity Soccer match at home will be on September 9, 6:00 P.M. at Torpy Field. The next Boys’ Varsity Football game at home will be on September 14, 6:00 P.M. at Torpy Field.