The Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association has named Jim Strick its next Communications Director, with Strick set to join the organization on Sept. 28.
The move comes during what the WIAA describes as a pivotal time for education-based athletics. Todd Clark will remain in the role until his retirement on Jan. 15, 2027, creating an overlap period as Strick transitions into the job.
Why Strick fits the role
Strick brings a long background in school communications, athletic communications, conference administration and WIAA event operations. That includes stints as the Sports Information Director at St. Norbert College in De Pere from 1997-1999 and as the Assistant Athletic Director for Media Relations at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point from 1999-2007.
In 2002, Strick worked as the primary media contact and moderated press conferences for freestyle and slalom skiing events at the Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City. He later received the Rising Star Award from the College Sports Information Directors of America in 2007.
From 2007-2010, Strick served as the Director of Athletic Communications for men’s hockey and men’s and women’s tennis at the University of Minnesota. He then became Communications Director for the Neenah Joint School District in 2013, a role he held through a stretch that included major recognition from both state and national groups.
Recognition and next steps
Strick received the Wisconsin School Communicator of the Year Award from the Wisconsin School Public Relations Association in 2025 and the National Federation of State High School Associations Award for Outstanding Service in Wisconsin in 2026.
Stephanie Hauser said the WIAA is “thrilled” to welcome Strick and noted that he brings an extensive background as a school communications director, athletic director, conference commissioner and more. She also said Strick understands the value of education-based athletics and the importance of telling the positive stories of high school sports across Wisconsin.
For Strick, the move is also personal. He said some of the best memories for many people across Wisconsin center around high school athletics and that it is an honor to be part of that.
With Clark still in place until January 2027, the transition should give the WIAA time to maintain continuity in a key communications role while bringing in a new voice for the next chapter.
