VYPE: When did you take over as AD, and what was your professional background prior to this position?
Dewayne Hunter: 2020 was my first year at Coweta. Before that I was at Westmoore for 13 years as a coach and JH Athletic Director and then I opened Southmoore High School in 2008 as their first Athletic Director. I was there for 13 years.
VYPE: What is new in the athletic department, and are there any plans for future developments?
DH: It is always a process of upgrading facilities and procedures. We recently started livestreaming our games through HUDL and are in the process of upgrading our scoreboards.
VYPE: Why is community support essential to an athletic department?
DH: Community support is crucial here. Our patrons’ support allows our teams to go out and compete at the highest level. Tiger Fans are the BEST!
VYPE: What should parents of incoming freshmen know as their student-athletes prepare to compete at the varsity level?
DH: The amount of time/effort that goes into being able to compete at the 5A level is huge! If you aren’t putting in extra time and effort, you are falling behind.
VYPE: Which community partners and sponsors have supported your student-athletes this season?
DH: We have some great partners and sponsors in Coweta. Tulsa Bone and Joint has been an amazing partner in helping us make sure our athletes are healthy and ready to compete. So many other great sponsors: Yochum Trucking, FNB Bank, Sonic, Bank First, etc.
VYPE: Given the changing landscape of high school athletics, what is your perspective on the current state of prep sports in Oklahoma, and how can the experience be improved for students?
DH: The landscape of high school athletics is constantly changing, especially in the last couple of years. Families have more freedom to move schools than ever before. There are always opportunities, but is that option better than playing for your home school with your friends?
VYPE: What is the biggest challenge you face as an athletic director in 2026?
DH: There are always challenges. The biggest challenge is the facilities upgrade race. So much big money is being poured into high school athletics in 2026. Having great facilities is a source of pride for the whole community.
VYPE: How do you enjoy spending your free time away from school?
DH: Outside of school, I love to be outside: hiking, kayaking, golfing, motorcycling. I also love to see my 5 grandkids that live in Moore, Ok.
VYPE: What advice would you give to a first-time athletic director taking over a program?
DH: As a first time AD, it is important to make you have a solid understanding of the OSSAA Rules and Policies. Also, it is important to surround yourself with great people…great secretaries, coaches, principals, and administration are crucial to your success.
VYPE: What is your message to the senior class of 2026, and what would you like returning students to know?
DH: 2026 Seniors: thank you for your leadership and hard work. You will always be welcome as a Tiger! Returning Tigers: How good do you want to be? How hard are you willing to push yourself? How do you want to be remembered when you finish? The Choice is Yours!!
