The Phoenix Day School for the Deaf Athletic Department considers athletics an integral part of education and believes that participation in sports develops and instills the qualities of pride, unity and victory; while developing the student athlete to live life with strong social conscience. It is our goal to give our student athletes the tools and skills to achieve this mission. Being a part of a team not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but provides multiple opportunities for skill enhancement, competition, collaboration, and cooperation.
We also believe that physical fitness, discipline and success can help promote academic success and we expect our athletes take pride in their performance in the classroom as well as on the field. While we strive to build competitive, winning teams, our primary mission is to promote the value of school spirit and fair play.
Jeff Ploederl is the Athletic Director at the Phoenix Day School for the Deaf. Originally from Manitowoc, Wisconsin, he graduated from Lincoln High School and later earned his degree from Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. Jeff is dedicated to supporting students through sports and promoting an active, inclusive environment for all. Jeff is actually a Deaflympic champion with a bronze medal in tennis and a gold medal in basketball!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Jeff at [email protected].
Caroline Gallagher serves as the Athletic Administrator at the Phoenix Day School for the Deaf. A Walnut, California native, she graduated from South Hills High School before attending Mt. San Antonio Community College. Ms. Gallagher was a varsity cheerleader at both of these schools, really showing some sports prowess! On top of that, she’s one of the many people who made it to the top of the Half Dome summit! Caroline is dedicated to supporting the day-to-day operations of the athletic department, ensuring everything runs smoothly for students and staff alike.
Contact Caroline at [email protected].