Steve McDowell, the District Athletic Director for Gilbert Public Schools, draws on his experience as a former student-athlete to guide his work with current students. From 1980 to 1984, McDowell played football at Gilbert High School and was part of the team that reached the state championship game in 1981. The lessons from those years now influence his leadership across the district.
McDowell said his high school football career was about more than just winning games. “My teammates and I, we were a band of brothers,” he recalled. “I just loved everything in my football career.” He also noted how older players helped him adjust when he joined varsity as a sophomore. “There’s no better group of individuals to pass culture on,” he said. “They’re like, ‘Hey, this is our way. This is the Tiger way.’”
Now in his twelfth year as District Athletic Director, McDowell is recognized by coaches and players for creating an environment where student-athletes feel supported and valued. Stevann Brown, head coach at Gilbert High School, commented on the sense of unity among players: “We have a lot of fun,” Brown said. “I watch these guys bond with each other. It doesn’t matter the age group, and I think that’s just a testament to what they’re talking about here – the brotherhood that they have built.”
Players also acknowledged this culture. One player described it as inclusive: “The culture here is great,” adding there is “more spirit in the school” and expressing pride in being part of Gilbert High.
McDowell emphasized including younger athletes: “When I became a senior and I saw a younger player, I thought, he’s going to have the same experience I did,” he said. “So I did the same thing as the seniors before me. I took them under my wing, and I would always make sure they felt included.”
His approach has influenced athletic programs throughout Gilbert Public Schools’ six high schools.
Max Ragsdale, Athletic Director at Campo Verde High School, credited McDowell for supporting all schools equally: “He supports all six high schools equally, fairly, and without judgment,” Ragsdale said. “He is unwavering in his support of all athletic programs at all sites.” Ragsdale added that McDowell’s guidance helps prepare students for education or careers after graduation.
At Highland High School, Brandon Larson described how McDowell helped set up expectations that let programs thrive: “As District Athletic Director, Steve has been a large support behind the systems and expectations that allow programs like Highland’s to flourish,” Larson said. “His leadership has set a clear vision for what athletics should mean across the district: developing student-athletes who excel on the field and grow as people.”
Ryan Salazar from Mesquite High School explained how McDowell prioritizes students’ needs: “Mr. McDowell ensures that our programs are always supported and that students come first in every decision. He played an important role in the hiring of our new football coach and continues to show up at games to support our athletes and our school community.”
Kevin Swann from Desert Ridge High called McDowell both mentor and resource: Swann stated their program focuses on discipline and accountability—qualities associated with McDowell’s own background—and added he could not ask for better guidance.
In interviews with coaches and captains at Gilbert High School one word often came up—legacy—referring to McDowell’s impact beyond sports performance toward personal growth.
“I want every student to have the same kind of experience I did,” McDowell said. “That’s why I came back to Gilbert and worked my way back into education.”
More information about district athletic programs can be found at https://www.gilbertschools.net/athletics.
