By Chris Shelton
Camera Sports Writer

Jim Williams is trading in the relaxing beaches of Kauai for the bustling halls of Fairview High School.

Williams, a retired Boulder Valley School District deputy superintendent, will be Fairview's athletic director this year.

But just for the 2000-01 school year.

Williams will be the interim athletic director and will replace Tom Smith, who left this summer to become the assistant principal at Holy Family High School in Broomfield.

"We're tickled to death to have him help us out," said Monte Sutak, the district athletic director for BVSD. "Certainly to get someone of Jim's caliber is a big plus. He'll be a tremendous asset to Fairview and the school district."

For Williams, it's the perfect situation.

"I've spent a lot of time on the beaches of Kauai and my spirit and energy has been restored," Williams said of his yearly vacations. "Now I'm ready for a challenge."

Williams retired from the school district in August of 1998 after serving as the deputy superintendent for 15 years. He began his Boulder Valley career in 1966 as a counselor at Fairview High School. He was the athletic director for the Knights in 1970-72 and the principal in 1975-76.

As deputy superintendent, Williams oversaw the school district's athletic director.

"So I've had my hands in athletics in the Boulder Valley School District," Williams said.

Smith was Fairview's athletic director for nearly six years and spent 26 of his 30 years with the BVSD at Fairview.

Williams steps in at an important time for Fairview. The high school has four new administrators this year, including a new principal. His history and experience at Fairview can help those administrators make a successful transition into their new school.

Most of all, Williams looks forward to being involved with students and teachers again.

"I'm a strong believer in the activities and athletics programs," Williams said. "They play a key role in a well-rounded education of any person."

It's an ideal job for Williams as he can help out for a year with the knowledge that he will retire for a second time when the school year ends.

"I loved retirement," Williams said. "I loved the freedom of it. On the other hand, I think this will be enjoyable, too."

While retirement treated him well, it's hard to keep someone away who's been involved with students for so long.

"I think the total experience will be really enjoyable for a year," Williams said. "It will be refreshing. It will be good to be around young people again. My goal is just to provide good assistance, coordination and support for the kids and administrators there."

July 29, 2000