Athletic Director Matthew Koenig spoke about fall sports, his time here at Notre Dame Academy, and other components of being a student-athlete in an interview session with journalism students.

Koenig, who has been the NDA athletic director for seven years, talked with student reporters during a week where the boys soccer team is headed to state and the football team will play at Level 3 of the state playoffs.

“We have had three Walks of Champions this fall,” he said.

 Despite that accomplishment, Koenig said, “We want kids to be here for the education and faith component.” 

The last thing he endorses is a student coming to NDA because of its successful athletics program, which has acquired 45 state champions since 1990. 

Around 300-350 athletes are in fall sports, including Boys and Girls Volleyball, Boys and Girls Cross Country, Boys Soccer, Girls Golf, Girls Tennis, Girls Swimming, Dance and Football. 

Koenig is the overseer of transportation, scheduler of  non-conference games, coordinator of officials for games, coordinator of facilities, organizer of the concession stand  and so much more. 

Studies, explained Koenig, have shown students more involved in extracurricular activities have done better in everyday life after high school.

About 72% of NDA students are involved in athletics, making the culture of sports enjoyable for anyone. 

The athletic director cited two incredible leaders this year, Teya Bordini and Thommy Chosa, for having helped lead the culture back to pre-Covid days.