Erica Browne Grivas
On June 1, Tim Jackson officially took over one of the tougher jobs in Nevada as the NIAA’s newest executive director.
Jackson, who becomes the sixth executive director in the organization’s history, replaced Donnie Nelson. Nelson was with the NIIAA for nearly 25 years and the last 2.5 as the executive director.
Jackson has served as Clark County School District director of athletics is originally from Sandusky, Ohio and graduated from Bowling Green State University.
Jackson takes over as the NIAA executive director in a time of uncertainty of sports, future postseason venues and trying to bring northern and southern Nevada together.
Great Basin Sun Assistant/Sports Editor Tony Erquiaga recently did an interview with Jackson:
Q: You have been a part of high school sports in Nevada for a long time, what are the challenges for the future?
A: Nevada is facing challenges just like other states. Fiscal challenges, realignment, participation numbers, officials, transportation, and scheduling all create obstacles that must be overcome, just as they do in many other states.
However, Nevada’s unique challenges lie in the specific details of each issue. Financial obligations related to athletics will continue to strain budgets as costs rise for all aspects of competition.
Realigning in a state with large variations in enrollment numbers, participation numbers, and geographical locations poses challenges that are not easily overcome.
Ultimately, providing the best opportunities for our student-athletes will require the utmost devotion and attention.
Q: I live in Winnemucca and have covered Lowry, McDermitt, Pershing County (Lovelock) and Battle Mountain for nearly 25 years.
Each school is very different and has its own issues. But all are small schools.
How will you as executive director try to keep the smaller schools prominent in the future?
A: Every school or group of schools in Nevada has its own unique identity, which is important to recognize and understand. I am reminded of my previous statements about the importance of listening to schools, understanding their concerns and working together to find the best solutions for the future. Neglecting any one school would be a disservice to all.
Q: Lacrosse has become a very popular sport in Nevada the past few years and a number of high schools are playing as club teams. Is there a future for the sport to be sanctioned? Also, any updates on the status of girls wrestling?
A: I’m always open to discussing new sports. Emerging sports is discussed across the country, including in Nevada.
I’ve heard about interest in lacrosse, boys’ flag football, and even pickleball.
However, it’s important to me that we only consider adding a new sport if we can properly support it.
That’s why I emphasize the need to follow our current process for adding, supporting, and ultimately approving a new sport.
We are witnessing the development of girls wrestling as the sport continues to advance towards full-sanctioning.
Currently, there are 12 weight classes competing, and we anticipate continued growth in participation across the state for the 2024-25 season.
Looking ahead to the 2025-26 season, we have heard about expanding the number of weight classes from 12 to 14, establishing postseason competition, and possibly introducing divisions.
Girls wrestling is progressing well, and I foresee a bright future for the sport.
Q: I may be wrong or barking up the wrong tree but there seems to be a divide between North and South. How do you and the NIAA board try to fix that?
A: This question is frequently asked and I believe that the answer lies in communication. Whether the divide is real or just a matter of perception depends on your point of view.
If you believe there is a divide, then there is and we must work to change that perception. Communication is crucial, and transparency is vital.
The concerns of each school, county, region, or district are important, and when those issues are not perceived as being addressed, a divide can grow.
Listening to and actively engaging with people helps narrow that divide, bridge the gaps, and build a strong community.
Q: Watching the last NIAA Board on Control meeting, there could be big issues with future postseason sites. Everyone wants the kids to play in the best environment possible. With rising costs, are the major sites in trouble with the lack of help.
A: The NIAA has a responsibility to manage money wisely, while also ensuring that our student-athletes have the best possible experience. Finding the right balance is crucial. Nevada is fortunate to have some great venues, which provide fantastic environments for our student-athletes.
However, it’s important to be mindful of our expenses and not jeopardize our future.
While we will aim for the best venues, we will always be transparent about the rising costs and our financial limitations.
Q: What is the one thing you took away from Donnie Nelson? What was the best advice that Donnie gave you?
A: I have known Donnie for many years, and during that time, he has consistently shown genuine care and concern.
He is passionate about student-athletes, schools, districts, and Nevada, and it’s difficult to find anyone who would disagree with this assessment.
Throughout the transition, Donnie has continued to offer me the same level of care, providing guidance, answering my countless questions, and simply sitting down to talk with me.
His willingness to let me “call anytime” is the best advice he has given me, as it goes beyond our discussions about the position’s overall scope.
When I’m feeling stuck, unsure, or conflicted, I plan to take him up on that offer and just give him a call.