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He’s the man behind the events – he makes sure everything runs smoothly, the facilities are ready, everyone is in place and Westside’s amenities provide a safe environment.

Tom Kerkman has been Westside High School’s Athletic Director and Assistant Principal for the past 16-years. During his time at Westside, Kerkman has watched as facility upgrades and building improvements have positioned Westside High School Athletics to lead for years to come.

Highlights include the renovation of the Seline Softball Complex, enhanced-interactive lighting for football games, lighting and structural improvements at the baseball field, a new entrance and concession stand at Phelps Field, updates to the tennis courts and ongoing turf improvements for field sports.
In his last year as AD, he enjoyed his small role watching the design and construction of the Life Complex. Funded almost entirely from private donations through a Westside Foundation campaign, the complex’s creation installed one of the best high school swimming pools in the US and added more room for WHS Wrestling teams, Physical Therapists, and assorted athletic and academic programs.

“The Life Complex allows for the continued growth of our student-athletes by providing state-of-the-art technology and innovative practices.” said Kerkman. Under Kerkman’s leadership, Westside Warrior teams have won 28-Metro Conference Championships and 19-State Titles. Westside High School was also named the OWH All-Sports Champion and the NSAA Corporate Cup Winner in 2025.

Kerkman expects even more improvements after he’s gone.  Kerkman said, “With Brad Metzler and Tola Dada serving as Co-Athletic Directors, Westside Athletics and Activities are in good hands. I think the programs will thrive under their leadership.”

Kerkman is thankful for all the community support as well as the bonds formed with the coaches and families he has worked with over the years. 

Kerkman shares the credit for his success with his family. He says he could not have done the job without the support of his family. Kerkman wanted to thank his wife Teresa, daughter Nicole, son Matthew and daughter-in-law Rachel for the support they have provided during these 16 years.  

Kerkman said, “It takes a great commitment and understanding to be part of a family whose dad is the Athletic Director at Westside.”

Kerkman’s retirement will run smoothly, with the focus placed on others, but for this one, brief moment Tom has stepped forward - just long enough for us to acknowledge all he has done for Westside Warriors past, present and future.

Thank you, Tom.

He’s the man behind the events - he makes sure everything runs smoothly, the facilities are ready, everyone is in place and Westside’s amenities provide a safe environment.

Tom Kerkman has been Westside High School’s Athletic Director and Assistant Principal for the past 16-years. During his time at Westside, Kerkman has watched as facility upgrades and building improvements have positioned Westside High School Athletics to lead for years to come.

Highlights include the renovation of the Seline Softball Complex, enhanced-interactive lighting for football games, lighting and structural improvements at the baseball field, a new entrance and concession stand at Phelps Field, updates to the tennis courts and ongoing turf improvements for field sports.
In his last year as AD, he enjoyed his small role watching the design and construction of the Life Complex. Funded almost entirely from private donations through a Westside Foundation campaign, the complex’s creation installed one of the best high school swimming pools in the US and added more room for WHS Wrestling teams, Physical Therapists, and assorted athletic and academic programs.

“The Life Complex allows for the continued growth of our student-athletes by providing state-of-the-art technology and innovative practices.” said Kerkman. Under Kerkman’s leadership, Westside Warrior teams have won 28-Metro Conference Championships and 19-State Titles. Westside High School was also named the OWH All-Sports Champion and the NSAA Corporate Cup Winner in 2025.

Kerkman expects even more improvements after he’s gone.  Kerkman said, “With Brad Metzler and Tola Dada serving as Co-Athletic Directors, Westside Athletics and Activities are in good hands. I think the programs will thrive under their leadership.”

Kerkman is thankful for all the community support as well as the bonds formed with the coaches and families he has worked with over the years. 

Kerkman shares the credit for his success with his family. He says he could not have done the job without the support of his family. Kerkman wanted to thank his wife Teresa, daughter Nicole, son Matthew and daughter-in-law Rachel for the support they have provided during these 16 years.  

Kerkman said, “It takes a great commitment and understanding to be part of a family whose dad is the Athletic Director at Westside.”

Kerkman's retirement will run smoothly, with the focus placed on others, but for this one, brief moment Tom has stepped forward - just long enough for us to acknowledge all he has done for Westside Warriors past, present and future.

Thank you, Tom.