The athletics department have several substantial changes this school year. Ladue School District hired a new athletic director, and new coaches for the tennis, football, softball and cross-country teams. In addition, new fees are instated to offset costs.

Brian Garner, former Ladue Middle School principal, replaces Kurt Knoedelseder as the new athletic director. Garner will also be an assistant principal.

“I hope we build on the success of past seasons, fill the loss of our seniors, and celebrate the individual and team accomplishments this year,” Garner said.

Another change is Kevin Lackey. Previously the junior varsity tennis coach, he takes over girls’ varsity team. Lackey, a Ladue Horton Watkins 2001 graduate, coaches part-time when not working at his human resources firm. Lackey led the Rams to finals at the 2001 state tournament and played Division I tennis at Furman University in South Carolina.

“I hope we improve, play hard, and ultimately go to state,” Lackey said.

Lackey replaces Ladue Middle School physical education teacher, Jason Theodosiou. He values his new coaching opportunity.

“The quality of the girls as people and as tennis players has exceeded my expectations. I feel lucky and blessed to have the opportunity to coach them,” Lackey said.

New math teacher, Hannah Lupardus, will be taking over the duty of assistant cross-country coach. She is replacing Tim Levine, who resigned to pursue other endeavors.#

“I wanted to get involved with extracurricular activities for many reasons. I was interested in cross-country because it provides any athlete the opportunity to be a team member. It [cross-country] pushes the individual yet builds team unity,” Lupardus said.

Lupardus has started the season with a boom. She is coaching many students and has big hopes for the season.

“We have over 90 athletes participating on both the boys and girls teams,” Lupardus said. “I hope all of the athletes continue working hard, helping one another to be their best and that both teams win state championships!”

On the diamond, Jenn Tuttle takes over as head coach and will be assisted by Darci Cadieux. Tuttle is an English teacher at Ladue High School.

“I played softball in high school, college and still play to this day. I have always wanted to coach softball at the high school level. Softball has awarded me so many opportunities in life and I hope to give back,” Cadieux said. “We hope to strengthen individual skills, increase knowledge of the game and build a strong foundation. We aspire to finish with a winning record.”

One change that will affect all athletes is the appointment of new athletic trainer Michelle Padgett. She is contracted from St. Louis Sports Medicine and Training Centers to tend to all sports injuries.

Besides coaching changes, financial reforms intend to address district funding. All students, regardless of participation, are now required to pay $50 at the beginning of the season to offset costs of activities.

“The fee will help all costs. It will help cover supplies, materials, and travel fees,” Garner said.