By ROWENA PLETT

Staff writer

Sheldon Patton of Marion knew the challenges he would face when he agreed to become activities director at Centre High School last fall.

“I have always been involved in extracurricular activities as a student and as a teacher,” the 27-year-old Patton said. “As a result, I had a decent idea of what I was getting myself into.”

He said the support he got from many people helped him be successful.

Coaches and other school personnel, students, and “countless” parents stepped in to help at a moment’s notice.

“IServe was great at making sure our facilities were always ready for events as well as staying late to clean up,” he said.

He praised his wife, Heather, for accompanying him to all games and, most of all, being patient when he had to be away evenings or stay late for an event the next day.

“This year really has been a community effort, and I am pleased with what we have accomplished,” he said.

Patton was responsible for facilitating every junior high and high school event. He attended monthly league meetings and ordered medals, training room supplies, and uniforms. He was an advocate for coaches, students, and staff and attended all school events. He also created the sports schedule.

His efforts culminated in organizing an activities banquet. He had a difficult time sleeping the night before, he said, going over things in his mind and hoping he had remembered everything.

“Once the organization and set up were done, I got to enjoy the banquet with the rest of the attendees,” he said.

He said the job entailed a steep learning curve and helped him learn how to manage his time and organize things.

“This job is a challenge, but a challenge is an opportunity to grow,” Patton said. “I enjoy my job as activities director, and I am looking forward to next year, after a summer vacation, of course.”