As the Athletic Director at Gooding High School, Ryon Pope brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for supporting student-athletes to his role. With 29 years of experience in education and coaching, Pope is a seasoned leader who understands the profound impact sports can have on a student’s life. As Gooding High School prepares to compete in the Boise Dream Football Classic, Pope’s leadership is instrumental in guiding the program to success, both on and off the field.
A Career Shaped by Influential Mentors
Ryon Pope’s journey into education and athletic administration was deeply influenced by the mentors who shaped his youth. His high school basketball coach, Allen Kelsey, and the Athletic Director, Jack Lancaster, played pivotal roles in inspiring Pope to pursue a career in education and athletics.
"I became a teacher, a coach, and eventually an Athletic Director because of the great influences I had in my youth," Pope explains. "Coach Kelsey and Mr. Lancaster were and continue to be big influences on me, both professionally and personally."
These mentors instilled in Pope a passion for helping others, which ultimately led him to become an Athletic Director. "The main reason I wanted to become an A.D. is because I want to help the coaches as they help their student-athletes," he shares.
A Legacy of Coaching and Leadership
This is Pope’s fourth year at Gooding High School, following a distinguished 25-year career at Wendell, Preston, and South Fremont High Schools. During his tenure at these schools, Pope coached football, basketball, and track, and also served as the Athletic Director at Preston High School.
His extensive experience has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to effectively lead Gooding’s athletic programs. "My experience as a coach and A.D. at Preston has been invaluable in helping me transition into my role at Gooding," Pope notes.
Goals for the Season: Building a Unified Community
As Gooding High School’s Athletic Director, Pope is excited about the upcoming football season and the hard work being put in by the players and coaches.
"I have been excited as I have watched how hard our players and coaches have been preparing for this football season," Pope says. "I know that Coach Baumann and his assistant coaches are working to help these young men reach their potential."
Pope’s goals for the season focus on fostering a unified community that supports student-athletes in achieving their highest potential. "To me, a successful season is anytime coaches, players, parents, and the whole community work together to help our student-athletes achieve their highest potential, both on and off the field," Pope emphasizes.
The Excitement of the Boise Dream Football Classic
The opportunity to play at Albertsons Stadium, home of the Boise State Broncos, is a tremendous source of pride for the Gooding community. For Pope, it’s an iconic experience that unites the entire town in support of their beloved Senators.
"I think this is a tremendous opportunity for our whole community," Pope shares. "The blue turf is iconic, and I know everybody in Gooding is excited to see our beloved Senators run out on that field."
With Pope’s leadership, Gooding High School is poised to make the most of this exciting opportunity, as they strive to achieve greatness both on the field and within the community.
For more information about the Dream Football Classic and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.dreamfootballclassic.com/highschool
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