By Ryan Woods and Zach Hyatt – News Editors

Jonathan Law’s new Athletic Director, Mrs. Bickelhaupt, is looking forward to her first year leading Law athletics. Advocate News Editors Ryan Woods and Zach Hyatt interviewed Bickelhaupt about her goals and plans for the 2026-2027 school year.

Zach Hyatt and Ryan Woods: What made you want to become an Athletic Director?

Mrs. Bickelhaupt: I was really close with my Athletic Director in high school. I played three sports, so I was always hanging around, helping him out after school until practice, and I really enjoyed how he was involved in all of the sports. He was still able to have fun and maintain great relationships with student-athletes while running an entire athletic department. I thought it was a really fun job.

ZH & RW: What are your biggest goals for Law’s athletic programs this year?

MB: This year, I would love to see big student sections at games and help create an atmosphere where students want to come support the athletic teams we have, and athletes want to compete at a high level at Law. It’s one of the best parts of high school to look back on all the memories and remember how much fun you had at the games, cheering from the crowd, and experiencing what it’s like to play in front of crowds like that. Those are the moments you’ll remember long after high school is over. Another goal would be to have a strong brand around the campus.

ZH & RW: How do you plan to support student-athletes both on and off the field?

MB:“On the field is easy – making sure fields and courts are safe, ensuring we have what we need to run a smooth event, being present, and getting to know everyone while their coaches feel supported to run a program. Off the field, I think having students actively participating in captains council and leadership opportunities, like the sportsmanship field trip, will help programs become stronger, and students who come up through the school want to be a part of.

ZH & RW: What is one thing you would like to improve about the athletic program?

MB: I would like to help improve the numbers we have in our programs and look to have all three levels of sports across the board. A handful of teams have just a varsity/JV team. Getting those participation numbers up to build a strong and competitive athletic program is key.

ZH & RW: What is one thing you want students and athletes to know about you?

MB: I want student-athletes in and out of my office all the time. I want to have great relationships with the kids in the school. It makes my job more fun and I get to know who I’m cheering for on the field. So stop by, say hi, and talk some sports with me.