This year has brought more change and action in order to address the issues of the day. From finance, concussions, heat acclimatization, to background checks for officials, we do have a changing culture. Not only in Arizona but all over the country. One of the opportunities I enjoy in my position is the ability to interact with state associations in the US and Canada. Many of the issues that we have and/or continue to deal with have been discussed in meetings with a diverse group of people with different solutions and thoughts. Many of these ideas and solutions have already been implemented in other states and/or have been reviewed by the AIA Executive Board, while other states have looked to Arizona for ideas and solutions.

We are pleased that Mr. Jack Roberts, Executive Director of the Michigan High School Athletic Association has accepted our invitation to speak at the Arizona Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association Conference on September 10, 2012. Mr. Roberts brings experience and leadership at the state and national level and is recognized as a driving force in the state association field.

In his recent blog, "Changing Culture", Mr. Roberts identifies many of the same issues we are dealing with as a state. Our staff is thrilled to have Mr. Roberts share his vision and passion for educational athletics with the athletic administrators of our great state.