FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
12 December 2024
Contact: Kevin G. McGuire, 202-538-2386 (mobile)
WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44), along with Congressman Marc Veasy (TX-33) and Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) introduced a resolution to recognize December 14th as Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Day. Middle and high school athletic administrators play key roles in developing and maintaining high-quality education-based athletic programs for our nation’s youth that promote physical activity, encourage healthy social connections and interactions, contribute to positive mental health, and foster academic success among student-athletes.
“I am proud to reintroduce my resolution acknowledging the essential contributions of interscholastic athletic administrators,” said Rep. Barragán. “These administrators are champions of student success, fostering health, discipline, and academic achievement through school sports programs. They lay the groundwork for young athletes who may one day shine representing Team USA at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
“I am proud to partner with Rep. Barragan to introduce this resolution recognizing Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Day on December 14th,” said Congressman Marc Veasey. “Athletic administrators play a vital role in our children’s development. They not only provide opportunities for students to pursue their athletic passions and abilities, but also foster a sense of community and belonging. Their work ensures the success of students with athletic aspirations. Without them, our children’s education and their ability to chase their dreams would be significantly diminished. It’s an honor to give long overdue recognition to these dedicated professionals.”
“Athletic administrators have such an important role in the lives of the students they serve. I’m proud to again introduce this resolution for Interscholastic Athletic Administrators’ Day to recognize their important work.” said Senator Braun.
“The job of being an athletic administrator is a very demanding job and it requires a huge commitment from our athletic administrators and families,” said Phil Rison, Executive Director of the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. “Athletic administrators are coaching coaches and working with student-athletes to ensure our programs are developing them through the curriculum of sport. We are so thankful that Congress recognizes that daily effort and commitment. We deeply appreciate Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) and Representative Nanette Barragán (D-CA) along with Representatives André Carson (D-IN) and Marc Veasey (D-TX) for leading this resolution of support.”
Research shows that student-athletes who participate in their school’s athletics program have higher attendance rates than the general school population, attain higher GPAs than non-student athletes, have lower suspension and expulsion rates than non-student athletes, and have higher graduation and college attendance rates than the general high school student body. Additionally, participation in school athletics programs is a stress outlet for many students and improves their self-confidence, self-discipline, and decision-making skills. Athletic administrators and athletics programs support over 8,000,000 US high school student-athletes alone.
The resolution is cosponsored by: Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Ándre Carson (IN-07), Hank Johnson (GA-04), and Don Davis (NC-01)
You can find the full text of the resolution here.
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Congressmember Nanette Barragán represents California’s 44th District. She sits on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and serves as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC).