By: Emelia Richling
In the past five years, it suffices to say that Northwest’s athletes, coaches and students have done an amazing job of coming together to win three state championships, two state runner-up championships, 19 district championships and four sportsmanship awards, a distinction Michael Sorensen, the athletic director, is especially proud of. After several years of helping student-athletes and coaches earn a long list of accolades, Sorensen is resigning.
Since the fall of 2015, Sorensen has served in a position in which he directs and organizes primarily athletic events, but he has also worked with other extracurriculars, including the music department. Although some students may not directly interact with him, Sorensen is a large part of many of the activities that students participate in, working behind the scenes to schedule activities, supervise events and facilitate policies.
However, after his wife was offered a position as a principal in Grant, Sorensen had to make a decision about whether the couple should stay in Grand Island or move.
“We had planned on living apart next school year,” Sorensen said. “She would live in Grant, and I would live in Grand Island and continue working at Northwest.”
Near the end of March, however, the plan changed.
When a principal position opened up at Chase County, a school closer to where his wife will work, Sorensen understood it was an opportunity he should seize. After applying for the position, he was offered the job.
“I thought it would be a great opportunity,” Sorensen commented. “The best part was not being separated from my wife by 175 miles.”
After five successful years at Northwest, many students and teachers will be sad to see Sorensen leave because of the impact he has had on the school and the athletic program.
“He wants the best for each program in the school,” said Alex Hull, the golf coach. “He wants coaches to think big and push their students. He doesn’t tolerate people expecting less than the best out of their student-athletes.”
Sorensen concluded by thanking Northwest for five wonderful years, encouraging students to always appreciate their teachers and reminding staff members to continue doing their best.
“I will always have a special place in my heart for Northwest High School, and I will continue to cheer for you from a distance. I want Northwest to be the best in Class B in everything!”
*Photo Courtesy of Tally Creative
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