Athletic Director

Freeport School District

Brad Pemberton has transformed Freeport’s athletic program by pairing clear systems with a deeply people-centered approach. He strengthened relationships across programs by establishing consistent communication routines—weekly check-ins, open-door office hours, and regular recognition—so athletes and coaches feel heard, supported, and aligned. Committed to equity, he reviews participation and resource data with coaches to ensure every sport, gender, and competitive level has fair access to equipment, facilities, and opportunities, helping increase involvement from previously underrepresented groups.

Brad also launched the Student Athlete Leadership Team (S.A.L.T.), giving athletes a real voice in program decisions and living out the idea that “What’s a Pretzel without SALT?” Alongside initiatives like a uniform rotation, athletics app, social media presence, and weekly newsletters, his leadership was recognized when he was named the 2024–25 IADA Division 4 Athletic Director of the Year.