VYPE: When did you take over as AD, and what was your professional background prior to this position?
Dusty Porch: I took over as athletic director in the summer of 2022. I was previously the Principal, Athletic Director and a coach at Robin Hill School located in NE Norman.
Earlier in my career I was also a math and shop teacher in the Yukon school district.
VYPE: What is new in the athletic department, and are there any plans for future developments?
DP: At the current moment we are still getting used to our new stadium and track facilities. The addition has added tremendous culture and excitement for not just athletics but the community as a whole. We also updated our baseball locker room. We are currently working on adding some outdoor cages for softball. It’s exciting every single day to see the athletes use the facilities and benefit from them.
VYPE: Why is community support essential to an athletic department?
DP: Support from our community plays a huge role. When our community shows up it helps support our programs. Fans showing up for events, local businesses advertising, it all benefits the students in our program and the community as a whole. I see our athletes in the community showing up and supporting local non-profits, hyping up younger kids at elementary schools, and being positive role models.
VYPE: What should parents of incoming freshmen know as their student-athletes prepare to compete at the varsity level?
DP: I would suggest parents of incoming freshman be ready for the commitment of high school sports. It takes time and dedication to be a part of a varsity level program. The student athlete puts in the work and parents are there for the support.
VYPE: Which community partners and sponsors have supported your student-athletes this season?
DP: We have a partnership with Ortho central that benefits all of our athletes in all programs here. One of the benefits here is that we allow each program to seek sponsorship on their own. This allows each program to get out and be seen in the community and benefit from it.
VYPE: Given the changing landscape of high school athletics, what is your perspective on the current state of prep sports in Oklahoma, and how can the experience be improved for students?
DP: I think prep sports can be a huge benefit for school sports. I believe that if it’s used correctly, it can be a good training aid for school athletics.
VYPE: What is the biggest challenge you face as an athletic director in 2026?
DP: The biggest challenge this year will be the outcome of all the legislature decisions. No matter the outcome, it will directly affect us as AD’s and change the world of high school athletics.
VYPE: How do you enjoy spending your free time away from school?
DP: Anytime outside of Norman North I like to spend with my family. We enjoy traveling and making memories together. I also enjoy coaching the basketball and baseball teams for my kids. We live on acreage so there is always plenty to do around the farm. My wife and daughter like to rescue just about every kind of animal you can imagine. Being a dad is my greatest joy. Every now and then a round of golf is a great escape.
VYPE: What advice would you give to a first-time athletic director taking over a program?
DP: If I were to give advice to a first time AD, I would tell them to stay patient. Take time to pour into each area and each sport as much as you can. I would like to give advice of learning from others and leaning on your resources.
VYPE: What is your message to the senior class of 2026, and what would you like returning students to know?
DP: I would like to tell the senior class that their legacy matters. My daughter is a senior this year and I’ve seen just how fast the four years go. Savor the moments with your family and friends. Treating others with respect and leaving the high school world a better place.
