Atlanta Public Schools (APS) recognizes the vital contributions women have made to advancing our great nation. During Women’s History Month, we are honored to celebrate those women — the trailblazers of the past, the heroines of the present, and the torchbearers of the future. Did you know that APS has nine women serving as athletic directors and leading athletics programs across the district? Help us celebrate these women in leadership roles who are bringing excellence to athletics for APS!
Meet Sheena Clark, athletic director at Long Middle School
Q: What is your background in athletics, and how did that prepare you to become a leader/ athletic director?
A: Playing organized sports at the age of 10 marked the beginning of my participation in athletics. Prior to that, I acquired my competitive spirit by playing outside with my family and friends, usually as the only girl. I had to put in twice as much effort to earn my spot when competing against males. Those experiences gave me the perseverance and leadership qualities that continue to serve me well.
My participation in high school softball and basketball and playing basketball at the collegiate level continued my love for athletics. My love of athletics developed into a strong desire to coach and guide young athletes over time. I am currently the middle school boys’ basketball coach, girls’ flag football coach, and athletic director at Long Middle School. I have coached everything from T-ball to AAU girls’ basketball. I have the foundation and leadership abilities required to effectively oversee and expand our school’s athletic program thanks to all my experiences.
Q: What is an accomplishment in your program that you are most proud of?
A: The fact that our football team has won four of the previous five APS middle school titles is among our biggest achievements. Building a successful boys’ basketball program, which made it to the playoffs this year, has also been my main priority. This season, our boys’ soccer team is also competing for the middle school title. I’m incredibly proud to see our athletes develop, compete, and achieve due to our program’s commitment.
Q: Do you consider yourself a role model? If so, why, and why is female mentorship so important in a male-dominated field?
A: I consider myself a role model, especially being a product of APS and the South Atlanta Cluster. I was an EMT and firefighter for the Clayton County Fire Department before I became a physical education teacher and athletic director, which is another profession where women must overcome obstacles. My leadership skills were strengthened by that experience, which also taught me how to work in environments where women are frequently undervalued. I have developed my ability to stand up for myself, hold on to my convictions, and rise to obstacles via leadership and athletics. In addition to my work responsibilities, I take great satisfaction in leading by example for my own kids. My oldest son has already graduated, my daughter is a high school student at Langston Hughes, and my son goes to Long Middle School. When they see me, I want them to think, “That’s my mom, and I’m proud of her.” Even I find it hard to believe how far I’ve come at times.
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