Craig Huegel selected as West AD

IOWA CITY — Craig Huegel embraces the tradition of Iowa City West athletics. And he isn't afraid of the expectations that go along with it.

'I'm excited about this challenge, this opportunity that awaits,' Huegel said Wednesday, after being selected the next West athletics director.

Huegel, 40, has been the AD at Marshalltown since 2013. He'll succeed Scott Kibby — who has been hired as the first principal at Liberty High School — on July 1.

'It's been an interesting last 48 hours, to say the least,' Huegel said. 'Iowa City West has a tradition of excellence. I'm very impressed with the coaching staff that's in place there.

'It's always a tough decision to leave a position. I've loved Marshalltown. It's been good for me and my family.'

At Marshalltown, Huegel oversaw the renovation of the Roundhouse, the school's iconic multi-use sports facility. He also had stops at Martensdale-St. Marys and North Polk.

A native of Ionia, Huegel graduated from New Hampton High School in 1994. He earned a BA from the University of Northern Iowa and a master's degree in educational administration from Drake University.

He and his wife, Jennifer, have two children — Andrew, 9, and Kerrigan, 4.

'I'm really impressed by the high expectations at West,' Huegel said. 'I want the students to have a good experience, whether that means a state championship, or a season that's not so successful ... I like that the coaches are dedicated to the kids.'

l Comments: (319) 368-8857; jeff.linder@thegazette.com