MSHSAA All Access Podcast

Latest Episodes:

2024-25 NFHS MSHSAA Activity Directors of the Year Interviews Feb 10, 2026

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In this episode of the MSHSAA All-Access Podcast, Communications Director Andrew Kauffman, along with Associate Executive Director James Melton and Assistant Executive Director Alex Huck, invite two special guests to celebrate their selections as “Directors of the Year.” Daniel Henderson, Orchestra Director for Clayton High School, and Jordan Heart, Speech and Debate Director for Jefferson City, share their passion for mentoring students and young educators. The group discusses their impact on student success, the importance of mentorship and community support, and the value of participation in activities like the arts.

MSHSAA Myths. Ep. 6 - Championship Venues Feb 06, 2026

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Join Dr. Jennifer Rukstad and CFO/COO Craig Long in this episode as we explore another misconception in our MSHSAA Myths series. Listen as they dive into the intricate process behind selecting championship venues. Discover the evolution from early member school hosts to utilizing collegiate facilities. Learn how vital the role of community Convention and Visitors Bureau's and Sports Commissions play in organizing and supporting these events, and the importance of creating memorable experiences for student athletes.

Don't miss this insightful discussion on the logistical challenges and strategic decisions that shape the hosting of high school sports championships in Missouri.

MSHSAA Centennial Ep. 7 - The Birth of an Association Feb 04, 2026

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Celebrating 100 Years: Missouri State High School Activities Association's Centennial

Join Dr. Jennifer Rukstad, Executive Director of the Missouri State High School Activities Association, and retired Senior Associate Executive Director Stacy Schroeder as they highlight the centennial year of MSHSAA. In this special episode, they delve into the Association's history, focusing on key dates leading up to its official formation on February 4th, 1926. Learn about the origins of interscholastic competition in Missouri, the pivotal role that various teaching colleges and districts played, and the milestones that marked the foundation of MSHSAA. This episode is a part of a series celebrating 100 years of enhancing student activities and competitions.

MSHSAA Myths Ep. 5 - Revenue Jan 30, 2026

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In this episode of the MSHSAA All-Access Podcast, Dr. Jennifer Rukstad, Executive Director, and Craig Long, CFO/COO, shed light on the financial workings of the Missouri State High School Activities Association.

We'll address common myths about MSHSAA's funding and clarify the belief that the organization receives any state funding. The discussion will cover major revenue sources as we also explore the impact of weather and matchups on revenue and the association's fiscal policies aimed at reinvesting back into the member schools and activities.

Stay tuned as we continue breaking down many of the myths around MSHSAA in this series!

2026 Area Meeting Topics Jan 28, 2026

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Join Dr. Jennifer Rukstad, MSHSAA Executive Director of the Missouri State High School Activities Association, as she discusses the key topics for the 2026 MSHSAA Area Meetings.

In this episode, we dive into MSHSAA's governance process, rule changes, updates on MSHSAA.TV streaming, district hosting procedures, Wrestling Championship changes and proposed changes to transfer rules.

We'll also cover topics related to Scholar Bowl, Speech and Debate, Dance competitions and Coaching Requirements.

Tune in to stay informed of what's coming up for Missouri schools in 2026!

MSHSAA Myths Ep. 4 - MSHSAA.TV Jan 20, 2026

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Exploring MSHSAA's Streaming Evolution: A Deep Dive into MSHSAA TV

Join Dr. Jennifer Rukstad, Executive Director at MSHSAA, along with guests Andrew Kauffman, Craig Long, and Eric Kelly, as they discuss the evolution of MSHSAA TV, the association's streaming service. This episode covers the history and significance of streaming high school activities, addressing intellectual property, competitive fairness, and the impact of the pandemic on streaming advancements. Learn about the efforts made to enhance content delivery, including the use of the new studio, broadcasting history, and the involvement of student broadcasters. This detailed discussion reveals how MSHSAA is leading the way in providing accessible and high-quality streaming experiences for high school sports and activities.

2024-25 NFHS MSHSAA Winter Coach of the Year Recipients Jan 17, 2026

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Join us in celebrating some of the amazing individuals that dedicate so much time and effort into the students of interscholastic sports in Missouri! This episode will highlight the NFHS MSHSAA nominee's for the 2024-25 Winter Coach of the Year - including Girls Wrestling, Boys Wrestling, Girls Swimming and Diving, Girls Basketball and Boys Basketball.

Listen as we share all the amazing things these coaches are doing in their schools and communities that provide such a dedicated support system that is vital to the success of young athletes they come in contact with each and every day.

Winter Sports Officials Appreciation Jan 15, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the MSHSAA All Access Podcast, Andrew Kauffman, Director of Communications, steps in for Dr. Jennifer Rukstad to discuss Winter Officials Appreciation Week. Joined by Tony Hill, Associate Executive Director at MSHSAA, they welcome three outstanding officials from Missouri - two first-year officials and 1 veteran official.

They share their experiences, challenges, and motivations for becoming officials. Listen to hear personal stories, mentoring relationships, and valuable advice for aspiring officials. Plus, discover how high school students can get involved in officiating and the importance of building positive relationships in the field. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about dedication and passion in sports officiating.

MSHSAA Centennial Celebration Episode 6 Jan 10, 2026

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Tragedy at Davis Creek: A Centennial Reflection on the 1927 State Championship

Join Dr. Jennifer Rukstad, Executive Director, and retired Senior Associate Executive Director Stacy Schroeder, as they delve into the poignant history of the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) in this episode of MSHSAA All Access Podcast. They recount the tragic events of March 1927, known as the 'Tragedy at Davis Creek,' where a wagon carrying students from Central High School in Kansas City and Northeast Kansas City was swept into floodwaters, resulting in the deaths of two students. Discover the intricate details of this incident and its impact on the school communities, whilst also reflecting on the strength and resilience of students and educators involved in interscholastic competitions.

MSHSAA Centennial Celebration Episode 5 Jan 07, 2026

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How has the MSHSAA Board of Directors evolved over the century? From the original five-member board in 1926 to today's diverse and representative body, learn about the pivotal changes that have shaped our association. Listen to our latest episode for the full story!

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