A new school year brings fresh energy to the School District of Black River Falls as Cade Murray steps into his new role as Activities Director. For Murray, taking the helm isn't just a career milestone. It is the fulfillment of a goal he has chased since high school.

"Drawing into an athletic director role was something I saw early on when I was in high school," Murray said. "Everything I’ve done in my educational career has been working towards this, so I’m really excited."

While scoreboard wins are always memorable, Murray emphasizes that the true value of extracurriculars lies in life skills. Whether students join traditional sports teams, the ASL program, or the Art Club, participation builds essential traits like accountability and time management.

Murray’s passion stems from personal experience at Darlington High School, where a coach believed in him and gave him his moment on the field. Now, he wants every Black River Falls student to feel that same support, using activities to bring the entire Jackson County community together.