Jen Krauthoff is the new Athletics Director for Saint Columbkille Partnership School. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in athletics, as well as her experience as a Saint Cols parent.
Jen earned her Masters in Education degree in Athletic Leadership from the University of Washington. After working for the University of Washington athletic department, she moved to Hawaii where she served as the Associate Athletic Director at a private pre-K-12 school for four years. She and her family have lived in Brighton since 2012.
As a sports enthusiast herself, Jen is looking forward to ramping up the athletics program at Saint Cols. Over the years, she has volunteered with the basketball program at the school and has seen many opportunities for growth and improvement. She is eager to work with elementary and middle school students to create a love of physical activity and friendly competition in a safe environment.
From a motivation perspective, Jen believes there are many benefits to participating in sports. “Sports build camaraderie and provide many physical and mental health benefits that help round out a child’s education,” she says. “And, quite simply, sports are fun!” She hopes all students take advantage of the athletic program and find the sport that fits them best.
“I love athletics,” says Jen. “And there are so many potential opportunities for students. I’m interested in collaborating with other Catholic and Allston-Brighton schools to provide the best opportunities for our Saint Cols students.”
Basketball is off to a great start this season, thanks to Jen. She has been busy coordinating with other schools, ordering equipment, scheduling referees and meeting with community members, as well as collaborating with our wonderful volunteer parent coaches. “I couldn’t do it without the time and dedication our committed parents give to this school,” Jen said.
Jen’s relationships within the Allston-Brighton community have already paid dividends for the athletic program. A few of our basketball teams had their first home games at the Oak Square YMCA, while our gymnasium backboards were being replaced. She also has plans of utilizing nearby facilities such as The Track at New Balance and Boston College.
“I’m also looking to provide options for this spring, as well as beginning to build a solid foundation for future sports programs [at Saint Cols],” says Jen. “I believe this can be accomplished by strengthening relationships within our local community. I’m looking forward to assisting our students by utilizing the great resources of Allston-Brighton.”
Discussions have begun with local Catholic high schools to possibly offer a wider range of sport opportunities for Saint Cols students in the future. Please keep a lookout for upcoming surveys regarding sports participation. This data compilation will be used to begin mapping out the future of athletics at Saint Cols.
“I want to build a sense of school spirit around sports at Saint Columbkille,” says Jen. “When our students show off that pride for their teammates and classmates, it brings us all closer together.”
Jen lives in Brighton with her wife, DJ, and their three children, two of whom currently attend Saint Columbkille.
