wiaa

RENTON, WA (AUGUST 18, 2026) – The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) announces the selection of John Appelgate to the WIAA Executive Board ahead of the 2026-27 school year.

“It’s an honor to serve where education, athletics, activities, and leadership come together to make a positive impact,” Appelgate said. “I am committed to being part of the process to support students, coaches, schools, and communities across the state.”

Appelgate brings extensive experience to the WIAA Executive Board, currently working as the Director of Civil Rights and Extracurricular Programs for the Lake Washington School District. Since 2016, Appelgate has overseen athletics and activities operations at the school district’s four high schools and eight middle schools. 

Over the last decade, Appelgate has served on the WIAA Classification Committee. He’s also held a meaningful role with the Washington Secondary School Athletic Administrators Association (WSSAAA) as a WSSAAA Executive Board member since 2017 and WSSAAA President from 2025-2026.

“I look forward to John’s contributions to the WIAA Executive Board,” Mick Hoffman, WIAA Executive Director, said. “I’m confident that John will continue to be a leader in education-based athletics and activities, advocating for all WIAA member schools”

Appelgate will fill the WIAA District 2 position on the WIAA Executive Board. That seat was previously held by Jeff Lowell. Announced in May, Lowell was hired as WIAA Assistant Executive Director – Compliance & Member Engagement.

The WIAA Executive Board is composed of 13 athletic administrators from WIAA member schools and school districts, including one representative from each of the six WIAA Districts, with an additional seven at-large regional positions.

A graduate of Sunnyside High School, Appelgate began his position with WIAA Executive Board on August 1.