Athletic Director

Bethlehem High School

Gilly Simpson is being nominated for revitalizing Bethlehem High School athletics with a humble, student-first approach that has made excellence and belonging the standard at a small school of under 350 students. After leaving a successful career as a financial advisor, he helped elevate every program, with district, conference, regional, and state champions now part of a more consistent, schoolwide culture of success. He has also driven extraordinary participation—about 80% of the student body—while ensuring there are no “haves” and “have-nots” sports, personally supporting students through cuts and helping them find new opportunities to compete.

Simpson introduced the “More than Winning” program and an annual coaches’ retreat to develop character, service, and leadership alongside performance. Even after a serious health setback, his steadiness and joy continue to make him the “heart and soul” of Bethlehem Athletics.