This season, we’re celebrating not just the athletes but also the exceptional leaders who shape their success behind the scenes. On April 22, 2025, three of our dedicated Athletic Directors were honored by the Southwest Ohio Athletic Directors Association (SWOADA) and the Ohio Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (OIAAA). ABC is thrilled to announce that these staff members have been recognized for their incredible service, commitment, and community impact on our youth.
From middle school fields to high school stadiums, our athletic directors have gone above and beyond to create meaningful experiences for their athletes. These awards are more than just recognition—they reflect years of hard work, heart, and hustle.
The SWOADA/OIAAA Athletic Director of the Year award is reserved for individuals who exemplify the highest standards in their profession. Paul has led his community with consistency and care, influencing countless student-athletes through strategic planning, advocacy for equity in sports, and dedication to creating a positive school culture. His influence and contributions to his students and their success are felt far and wide, making him truly deserving of this honor.
As Athletic Director at Aiken High School, Paul Brownfield has consistently led with passion, integrity, and a deep commitment to student development. His leadership has not only elevated athletic programming but also left a lasting mark on students, coaches, and the Aiken community. He supports student growth academically, athletically, and socially, ensuring these skills stay with them for life. Under his guidance, the Aiken community has continued to thrive.
Assistant Athletic Director at Walnut Hills High School, Jake Buchanan oversees the middle school athletic programs and serves hundreds of students. He has created a culture of opportunity for middle school athletes through mentorship and consistent leadership. From practices to community games, Jake’s belief in his students has built a foundation of confidence and teamwork that will last well beyond their school years. His leadership has been instrumental in building strong developmental sports programs that serve as a springboard for students entering high school athletics.
This award recognizes excellence in managing middle school athletics, including student engagement, coach development, and fostering a culture of sportsmanship and opportunity. Jake has consistently demonstrated the ability to organize competitive yet inclusive programs, prioritize student well-being, and create systems that support growth at every level. His dedication and leadership have built a thriving community, and ABC is proud to have him on our team.
Shay Steele, an Athletic Director at Walnut Hills, was honored with the prestigious SWOADA/NFHS Citation Award—one of the highest distinctions in interscholastic athletics. This award recognizes individuals who have made a significant impact not only in their schools but across the Southwest District and beyond. Shay’s tireless dedication to students and athletics continues to drive progress throughout the community.
Her contributions extend far beyond typical responsibilities. She plays a key role in shaping athletic policy, leads professional development efforts for her peers, and is a passionate advocate for inclusion in sports. Shay’s exceptional time, effort, and energy devoted to Southwest District athletics have made a lasting difference in the lives of countless students. Her commitment to excellence has helped shape the future of high school athletics in our community, and we are honored to celebrate her achievements.
While these awards are impressive, it’s the people and passion behind them that make this moment truly special. They affirm what the ABC community already knows: behind every great program is an exceptional leader. Paul, Jake, and Shay represent the core of what ABC stands for—creating opportunities, fostering growth, and championing every student’s potential.
These recognitions are not the end of the story—they are just the beginning. With leaders like these guiding the way, ABC continues to expand, strengthen, and build, ensuring brighter futures for every student we serve. From all of us at ABC: thank you, Paul, Jake, and Shay, for being models of excellence, service, and heart. You inspire not only our athletes but our entire organization to strive for greatness—on and off the field.
Here’s to continuing the work that matters.
