VYPE: When did you take over as AD, and what was your professional background prior to this position?

RM: I’ve been part of the Enid community for a long time, and I’m thrilled to have stepped into the Athletic Director role in July 2025. My journey in education started back in 2002, and after one year in Altus, I found my home here in Enid in 2003.

I spent 11 great years at Enid High teaching and coaching just about everything—football, basketball, tennis, golf, and baseball—including three seasons as the head girls’ basketball coach. From there, I moved into administration, spending three years as the AP at Longfellow and the last eight years as the principal at Waller. After over two decades in the classroom and the front office, I’m excited to be back in the world of sports, supporting our coaches and student-athletes!

VYPE: What is new in the athletic department, and are there any plans for future developments?

RM: Enid High School is where I grew up as a teacher and a coach, and I’m so glad to be back as a part of this team. Before I took over as AD in July, there were already a lot of great things happening in this department, and my goal is to keep that momentum going in three core areas:

• Athlete Development: First and foremost, we are focused on building character and confidence in our athletes. We’re doing this through our strength and speed classes and by encouraging our kids to be multi-sport athletes.
• Our People: We want to continue recruiting and keeping high-quality teachers and coaches. We already have some incredible people on staff, and we want to keep that trend moving forward.
• Our Facilities: Enid Public Schools has made huge strides in investing in our facilities lately. We’ve seen some great upgrades, and we have plans to keep building on that progress.

I’m excited to get to work and see what we can accomplish together. Go Big Blue!

VYPE: Why is community support essential to an athletic department?

RM: Having lived and raised my family here for over twenty years, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible support this community has to offer. Whether it’s in the classroom or on the field, Enid always rallies behind our youth. When this community gets behind our kids, it doesn’t just support them it lifts them up and amplifies their success. I’m proud to be a part of a place that cares this much.

VYPE: What should parents of incoming freshmen know as their student-athletes prepare to compete at the varsity level?

RM: As a former middle school principal, I know firsthand that the jump to high school can be a lot for both students and parents. We work hard to make that transition as smooth as possible, but there are a few ways you can really help your child hit the ground running:

• Stay Involved with Academics: High school is where the transcript starts to count. Help them stay organized and offer that extra layer of support as they navigate a new workload. It makes a world of difference.
• Build Their Confidence: Most athletes are capable of so much more than they realize, but they’re going to hit some bumps along the way. Be the person who reminds them what they’re capable of when things get tough.
• Let It Be Their Journey: This is their time and their moment. Let them experience the highs and lows for themselves. Your most important job is simply to be their biggest fan.

VYPE: Which community partners and sponsors have supported your student-athletes this season?

RM: We have so many incredible partnerships supporting our athletic programs that I couldn’t possibly name them all—I’d hate to leave anyone out. These partnerships are vital to our athletes and our coaches, and they truly make what we do possible. We are so thankful for everything these local businesses and supporters do for our schools and the Enid community.

VYPE: Given the changing landscape of high school athletics, what is your perspective on the current state of prep sports in Oklahoma, and how can the experience be improved for students?

RM: The landscape of athletics is changing faster than ever. Between transfers, NIL, and recruiting, there’s a lot for us to navigate as we move forward. These are a reality that we must continue to explore. But at the end of the day, there is nothing more pure than playing a game simply because you love it. As things get more complex, we need to do everything we can to preserve that “love of the game” for our athletes. It’s the most important thing we can protect.

VYPE: What is the biggest challenge you face as an athletic director in 2026?

RM: I’m still learning exactly what leadership looks like in this new role. In my short time here, I’ve identified a few areas where I’m challenging myself to grow time management, organization, and communication. These are my top priorities as I settle in, and I’m committed to constantly improving so I can give our coaches and athletes the very best of my time and attention.

VYPE: How do you enjoy spending your free time away from school?

RM: Outside of work, I really love spending time with my family and friends. For me, there is nothing better than getting together to grab a meal or catch a ball game. My church family is also a huge part of my life, and I truly enjoy our time together in worship and service. When I can find the time (which isn’t nearly often enough!), I love to head out for some fishing or get away for a snow skiing trip.

VYPE: What advice would you give to a first-time athletic director taking over a program?

RM: Since I’m still new to this role, I’m not sure I’m in a place to give much advice yet—but I can tell you what I’m striving for every day. My goal is to work hard, listen well, and lead with a servant’s heart. On top of that, I’m focused on staying organized and making sure I communicate clearly and often. That’s my commitment to our coaches, our athletes, and this community.

VYPE: What is your message to the senior class of 2026, and what would you like returning students to know?

RM: To the Class of 2026: Believe in yourselves. You can accomplish so much more than you think you are. Don’t be afraid to push those limits.

To our returning students: I am so looking forward to working with you and watching everything you’ll achieve this year. It’s going to be a great ride!

Go Big Blue!