SANDPOINT — As Bulldog lineage goes, Sandpoint High School would be hard-pressed to find a better athletic director than Tom Albertson, who today officially succeeds Cheryl Klein in stewarding the successful athletic program.

Albertson, who follows his grandfather and both parents as SHS graduates, begins his 24th year as a teacher/coach/administrator today. His official title is assistant principal of activities and athletics, a duty heretofore known as athletic director.

Formerly a successful math teacher, it wasn’t a job that Albertson necessarily had his eye on, but one he felt he could do well once Klein announced her retirement after a successful tenure.

“I wasn’t grooming for or planning for it, but I said ‘I could do this,’” says Albertson, who graduated from the University of Idaho. “Being part of Sandpoint High School is more than a job, it’s just something I grew up with, part of who I am.”

He’s no stranger to sports, playing football, basketball and track for the Bulldogs, as well as coaching track and football for more than 20 years. He plans to emphasize extracurricular activities as an extension of the classroom, expecting discipline on both fronts and hoping it helps set the tone for the school.

He credits Klein with helping him understand all of the dynamics involved, as well as the myriad details of the job, including everything from arranging busses, paying refs and scheduling games to cleaning up misunderstandings between coaches, parents and players.

While Albertson admits he’ll miss teaching math and the classroom atmosphere, he’s also excited to shift his focus to the sports realm, which he knows and loves.

“I fondly remember my athletic experience. It’s a real positive time in an adolescent’s life to be part of a team,” he explains.

“It’s an opportunity to have a positive outlet for their energies and to learn leadership skills, build relationships and learn perseverance. There are many activities and so much for kids to do.”