TMP
Drew Labertew was selected to lead Thomas More Prep-Marian Jr/Sr High activities after the position opened in early June.
“When [outgoing AD] James Harris indicated that he wanted to return to the PE classroom, it created a late opening that required us to seek potential replacements right away,” TMP-M principal Chad Meitner said. “When we quickly garnered strong candidates, I breathed a lot easier. Drew is a rising star that will fit right in as a leader of TMP-M’s proud traditions and programs.”
“I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve as the activities director for TMP-Marian Jr./Sr. High School,” Labertew said. “I am excited to be a part of the Hays community and work with the students, coaches and staff.”
As a full-time AD, Labertew is relatively new to the position; however, his path of preparation goes back to when he was still in high school.
Labertew assisted and shadowed his high school AD Shane Backhus his junior and senior years. That early experience only increased his desire to help youth through activities.
After one year at Fort Hays State University, Labertew returned home to attend McPherson College and play football. He earned his bachelor of science in sports management from McPherson College while assisting in the Athletic Department.
He reported directly to the director of athletics and assisted in daily operations, including supervision of various athletic activities. His experience with gameday operations and scheduling served him well for his next role at Kansas State University.
At K-State, Labertew was a graduate assistant with the Center for Student Success in the College of Education. He supported academic advisers, recruited prospective students and monitored student performance to ensure they met the curriculum requirements.
At the same time, Labertew completed an internship with the K-State Football Operations office that included managing gameday functions and events. He helped with logistics for rosters and itineraries for away games and led prospective student-athletes when on campus for recruiting visits. He did all of this while earning his master of science in counseling and student development.
“Drew has packed an impressive amount of administrative and leadership experience into his past six years,” Meitner said. “I can’t wait for our students and families to experience his energy.”
From all indications, Labertew agrees.
“I look forward to continuing to develop and build upon the traditions of the athletic programs, clubs and organizations that are affiliated with TMP-Marian. I can't wait to get started!” he said.
Thomas More Prep-Marian is a Catholic school serving grades 7-12. Students come from Hays, the surrounding region, and from countries around the world. The school was founded by the Capuchin Franciscans as Hays Catholic College in 1908 and ultimately became Thomas More Prep-Marian in 1981. The school continues to serve young people in the traditions of spiritual growth, academic excellence and leadership formation.