Jim Dermody Prepares for Fall Sports Season at Lewis Central

As fall sports gear up at Lewis Central High School, Activities Director Jim Dermody is focused on readiness and steady preparation. This year brings added excitement with district facility upgrades, which Dermody says have created positive momentum. "Fall can, you know, just obviously getting kids back, and this year we had a ton of construction going on, our updates were needed. So just a lot of excitement, just like every other year."

Recent achievements also boost the school’s energy: the Titans secured their second Class 4A state football championship in three seasons, a testament to their consistency and strength across the program.

Dermody emphasized the importance of leadership and familiarity within the coaching staff. "Consistency in coaching and preparation matters," he said. He highlighted the robust youth football program, which feeds rising athletes into the high school system. "We will have a youth football program that he is a big part of. Hundreds of kids in this program. You just would not believe the number of kids just running around."

Distributed leadership is another key component. Dermody spoke about depth on the offensive and defensive lines, underscoring the role of experienced players alongside developing underclassmen. "As long as they stay healthy, it’s the guys behind them, what are we going to get from your sophomores?" he said, noting the importance of readiness and stepped-up effort.

The level of competition in Lewis Central’s schedule also sets the tone. Dermody pointed out that the Titans will open with matchups that test them early, ensuring the team is challenged and sharpened before postseason play. These high-profile contests also offer younger players valuable experience, which builds confidence for the long season ahead.

The culture at Lewis Central emphasizes steady improvement and community pride. "We made efforts last year, special efforts to get down to our feeder programs, whether it’s just high fives at the beginning of the day, whether it’s go to their games, whether it’s camps, inviting them up to get that connection from youth programs to high school a little bit stronger. When they are ready, when they become freshmen, they want to be here."

Beyond football, Dermody spoke about the importance of supporting all activities. Volleyball, cross country, golf, and swimming are also preparing for strong seasons. He stressed that while football garners the most attention, the growth of all sports and arts programs matters. That balanced approach fosters leadership across the board and ensures all students feel valued.

Lewis Central’s marching band is another point of pride. Dermody recognized the hard work that goes into preparing halftime shows and competitions. He noted that these student musicians put in long hours in the summer heat, building camaraderie and discipline that matches any athletic program. The arts, like athletics, shape leaders and community contributors.

For Dermody, success is measured not just in wins and losses but in what students carry forward. "If a kid takes anything from our athletic program, sure, we are going to have a handful of athletes every year who go on to the next level and play the sport they love or the activity they love. But one thing we want from all of our athletes is when they leave here, take some of those leadership skills, some of those hard working skills, motivation, and take that to whatever they decide to do next."

Recent program successes back up that philosophy. Beyond football championships, Lewis Central has enjoyed postseason runs in volleyball, strong performances in cross country, and continued development across multiple programs. The overall picture is one of sustained competitiveness across the board, reinforcing the idea that Lewis Central is a community of excellence.

Heading into the new school year, Dermody is energized by both the challenges and the opportunities. His focus remains on consistency, growth, and preparing students for success in school, in activities, and beyond. For the Lewis Central community, the months ahead promise both exciting competition and lasting lessons for young people.