Peter Brock’s Transformation: From Gym Trainer to Athletic Director

In a noteworthy shift for the Sedona-Oak Creek School District, Peter Brock has been appointed as the new athletic director, effective July. The announcement was made by Principal Heather Isom during the Spring Sports Banquet Awards Ceremony on May 13.

Isom expressed optimism about the future of the district’s athletic program. “We are building a great athletic program here, and we would not be able to do it without your input and support,” she stated. “Brock is poised to take us in a new direction, and we are all excited for it.”

This transition comes after the district decided to downgrade the athletic director position from full-time to part-time, offering a stipend of $15,000 annually. Pedro Ortega Sr., who held the role since fall 2020, opted not to apply for the newly defined position. Superintendent Tom Swaninger clarified that Ortega’s decision was not reflective of performance and that the position could effectively function part-time. “We believe this adjustment is fiscally responsible, maintaining the integrity of our athletic program while being mindful of resources,” he said.

The athletic director is tasked with ensuring compliance with Arizona Interscholastic Association regulations and managing all aspects of the athletic programs, including coach hiring, game scheduling, and practice organization.

Brock expressed gratitude for Ortega’s leadership, acknowledging the lessons learned during their time together. “I hope to balance multiple responsibilities effectively,” he remarked, drawing from his observations of Ortega managing both coaching and administrative duties. His background includes significant experience in staff management and hiring.

Previously, Brock worked as the athletic trainer for Texas Wesleyan University and joined the SOCSD in July 2021. He holds a master’s degree in education from Baylor University and a bachelor’s in athletic training from Cedarville University.

Looking ahead, Brock aims to strengthen relationships with students and parents alike. “I want to continue building those connections, as they are crucial for keeping kids engaged,” he emphasized. He teaches Sports Medicine I and II at Sedona Red Rock High School, focusing on injury prevention and rehabilitation for student-athletes.

Swaninger outlined Brock’s responsibilities, highlighting goals related to recruiting and retaining athletes and coaches, as well as fostering community involvement. “We need to gauge student interest in various sports,” Brock stated, mentioning new sports like girls’ flag football under consideration for future seasons.

Middle school girls’ flag football is likely to be prioritized due to rising interest, especially as the girls’ varsity soccer program has struggled with participation. Meanwhile, the SRRHS baseball team faces challenges, with the potential to shift focus to developing a middle school program feeding into the high school.

The district is also seeking to enhance its coaching staff through proactive recruitment, evaluating current coaches to determine the best direction moving forward. “Our long-term goal is to increase participation in all sports and build school pride around our athletics,” Brock noted, aiming to boost attendance and parental engagement at events.

Currently, job openings exist for coaches in flag football, swimming, and middle school volleyball. Community members interested in supporting sports fundraisers or gameday activities can reach out to Principal Isom or Athletic Director Brock for more information.