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Eugene School District 4J

Equity. Excellence. Innovation.

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Athletics Department

Athletic Philosophy and Program Standards

Eugene School District 4J’s athletic philosophy centers on building character, integrity, and excellence in both students and staff. The program prioritizes sportsmanship and the development of student-athletes as individuals, emphasizing that the character of coaches and students must come before competition. 

Coaches are expected to serve as positive role models, supporting students’ academic growth, maintaining emotional composure, and promoting respectful communication. The program stands firmly against the use of negative criticism, profanity, or any demeaning behavior, and instead fosters an environment grounded in encouragement, safety and mutual respect. 

The district’s commitment to equity ensures that all student-athletes have access to comparable programs and resources, reinforcing a culture of inclusion and excellence across all teams.

The program goals for students are designed to extend beyond physical performance, aiming to foster lifelong values and skills. Students are engaged in a well-rounded developmental experience that includes direct instruction, guided mentorship, and engagement with real-world applications.

 The core goals include cultivating sportsmanship, understanding the broader societal value of athletics, and developing strong teamwork and decision-making skills. Emphasis is also placed on physical conditioning and health, ethical behavior, and personal development, including self-discipline, emotional maturity, and confidence. These goals ensure that students grow not only as athletes but as responsible and resilient individuals.

 

About Us

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Gregory Borgerding, Ed.D. District Athletic Director


Dr. Gregory Borgerding brings a unique perspective to educational leadership, combining his experience as an NCAA Division I athlete with over two decades of administrative expertise. He earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Seattle University (2011), his Master's in Educational Administration from the University of Washington (2005), and his Bachelor's degree in English Literature from the University of Nevada (1996). Currently serving as District Athletic Director for Eugene 4J School District, Dr. Borgerding provides leadership and oversight for all aspects of the district's athletic programs and extracurricular activities. He oversees Title IX compliance, facility management, and the equitable provision of resources across all athletic programs. His administrative career includes service as Director of Secondary Education and multiple principalships at both middle and high school levels, where he consistently demonstrated commitment to student achievement, educational equity, and the development of comprehensive programming that prepares all students for college and career success.

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Peter Barsotti - Athletic Director, North Eugene High School

I'm one of those people who loved sports more than they were actually good at them. My high school days saw me playing soccer, tennis, and football, adding to the mix of sports I dabbled in during middle school. While I enjoyed the team environment, my real passion has always been downhill snow skiing. The truth is, I thrive on competition. I can turn almost anything into a contest! This competitive spirit has been a constant throughout my career. Before stepping into the athletic department, I spent nine years as a middle school math teacher, and then ten years as a middle school principal, six of which were at Madison Middle School, where my 4J career began in 2017. While teaching, I spent a season coaching high school tennis and six years coaching high school soccer. I've been the Athletic Director at North Eugene High School since 2023, and I am dedicated to fostering a positive and competitive experience for all our student-athletes. Go Highlanders!

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Chris Mitchell - Athletic Director, Sheldon High School

Chris Mitchell serves as the Athletic Director at Sheldon High School, where he is deeply committed to helping students reach their potential both on the playing fields and in the classroom. He believes that athletics provide a powerful vehicle for teaching life lessons and fostering meaningful conversations about character, perseverance, and growth. Growing up, Chris was a multi-sport athlete who competed in tennis, wrestling, and football experiences that played a key role in shaping his values and personal development. Today, he continues to live out his passion for fitness as a marathon runner, viewing physical activity as essential to both mental and physical well-being.With 14 years of service in the 4J School District, Chris has held leadership roles as both a middle school principal and athletic director. His work continues to be guided by a belief that sports and education together create opportunities for lifelong learning and character development.

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Jim Moore, Athletic Director, South Eugene High School

I have been a lifelong sports fan, growing up playing football, basketball, baseball, and wrestling. In college, I coached high school wrestling and also worked as an official. After earning my teaching degree, I spent 10 years at Sunset High School as the head wrestling coach and an assistant football coach. I then moved into school administration, serving as a middle school assistant principal and an elementary principal. For the past nine years I have been an administrator in 4J, and I am now in my third year as the athletic director at South Eugene High School. I am passionate about high school sports and the way they shape character, teach lifelong skills, and bring communities together.