District 88 appoints new Athletic Director at Addison Trail

For as long as he can remember, Humberto Ayala has enjoyed helping others as a servant leader. As a first-generation American, Ayala learned the value of hard work and giving back from his mother. And he’s ready to share those qualities with Addison Trail.

During its April 10 meeting, the District 88 Board of Education approved the administration’s recommendation to name Ayala (pictured above) as the school’s new Athletic Director, effective July 1. Ayala will succeed Matt Thompson, who has served as Athletic Director for 19 `years and will move to the position of Assistant Athletic Director/Dean. Addison Trail is extremely grateful for Thompson’s leadership and contributions, as well as his assistance during this transition.

“We look forward to welcoming Ayala to the District 88 family,” said Jack Andrews, Addison Trail Principal. “The skills and experiences he brings to the table will be a tremendous asset to ensure the Blazer Pride at Addison Trail continues for years to come.”

Ayala has been the Athletic Director at Leman Middle School in West Chicago since 2011 and has coached soccer, volleyball, wrestling, football and track and field. He also was a health and physical education teacher, with experience in teaching English Learner (EL) students. Ayala has a bachelor’s degree in physical education, a master’s degree in teaching with certification and a master’s degree in coaching and athletic administration. He is a member of the Illinois Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents, the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association, the Illinois Athletic Directors Association and the Illinois Elementary School Association.

“Mr. Thompson has created an excellent athletic environment, and I plan to keep his work going and add my expertise, skills and bilingual abilities to further remove barriers and reach more students and families to showcase our facilities and the talents of our students,” Ayala said. “I’m looking forward to continuing a well-established department and the school’s strong athletic history and getting to know the staff, students and families. I’m very excited for this opportunity, and I can’t wait to get to work.”

Ayala said his goals include:

1. Increase student involvement: “My focus is to provide more opportunities for high school students and children in the community to be engaged,” Ayala said. “Athletics expand your horizons and teach life lessons. When students are involved, more adults are part of their journey to help them succeed and reach their goals.”
   
   
2. Increase parent/guardian involvement: “We all want our children to succeed, and I want to help parents with that process to navigate the education system and high school athletics,” Ayala said. “I want them to know the school isn’t just where their student attends – they belong in our learning community as well.”
   
   
3. Get acclimated: Become familiar with the school learning community and a new, larger athletic conference.
   
   
4. Increase the number of athletic events hosted at Addison Trail: “I enjoy hosting events – whether at home or at work. It’s a great opportunity to showcase our strengths and what we have at Addison Trail.”

“When I met and spoke with students in Addison, there was an immediate comfort level,” Ayala said. “I can see myself in these kids, and I know Addison Trail is a perfect fit for my family and me. Becoming a high school Athletic Director is a dream job.”

Ayala lives in Wheaton with his wife, Lindy, and their two sons – Nico, 14, and Nate, 10.