For many people, their high school years are a distant memory — something to look back on.

For Steve McDowell, the district athletic director for Gilbert Public Schools, those memories aren't just fond, they are the foundation of his professional life.

From 1980 to 1984, McDowell was a standout football player at Gilbert High School, a member of the 1981 team that fought its way to a state championship game appearance.

Today, the lessons he learned on that football field guide his decisions as the district athletic director, shaping the lives of student-athletes across Gilbert Public Schools.

 McDowell's personal experiences as a student-athlete at Gilbert High School give him a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs today's student-athletes face. He understands the sacrifices, the commitment, and the sheer joy of playing for a high-spirited community, and he's dedicated to ensuring every student has the chance to feel that same pride and purpose.

From player to leader

McDowell's time on the football field wasn't just about winning games; it was about building character.

In an interview, he reflected on the values that were instilled in his high school football career.

“My teammates and I, we were a band of brothers,” McDowell said, recalling the memories that came flooding back to him when he saw a 1983 newspaper clipping of himself. “I just loved everything in my football career.”

He recounts the intense practices and the rigorous training, but what stands out most is the sense of camaraderie.

McDowell remembers being a sophomore on a varsity team dominated by older players and how the seniors took him under their wing.

That player's perspective is evident in his approach to his role today as the district athletic director. He’s not just an athletics administrator; he’s an advocate who values the student-athlete experience.

Back on the field

In his 12th year as the district athletic director, Steve McDowell continues to have a significant impact on Gilbert High sports, something the coaching staff and players at GHS feel directly.

In McDowell, they see a leader who understands their world because he once lived it. The team’s head coach, Stevann Brown, noted how this leadership has created a supportive and positive environment.

"We have a lot of fun," the coach said. "I watch these guys bond with each other. It doesn't matter the age group, and I think that's just a testament to what they're talking about here — the brotherhood that they have built."

Players, too, recognize this unique connection.

"The culture here is great," a player said, adding that there is "more spirit in the school" and that they feel "proud to be a Gilbert Tiger."

The student-athletes said their culture is about including everyone. The team captains spoke about intentionally reaching out to younger players to build that brotherhood, a practice McDowell remembers from his own time.

“When I became a senior and I saw a younger player, I thought, he's going to have the same experience I did,” McDowell said. “So I did the same thing as the seniors before me. I took them under my wing, and I would always make sure they felt included.”

A districtwide vision

McDowell's leadership has impacted every athletic program across Gilbert Public Schools.

In discussion with athletic directors across the district, a common theme emerges in descriptions about McDowell — that is, he is a leader who listens, supports and champions the student experience above all else.

Campo Verde High Athletic Director Max Ragsdale described his own program's culture as a "brotherhood and family,” crediting McDowell as a key supporter of that vision.

"He supports all six high schools equally, fairly, and without judgment," Ragsdale said. "He is unwavering in his support of all athletic programs at all sites."

Campo Verde High’s football program is designed to prepare players for "life after high school with the goal of entering into one of the E's — education, enrollment or enlistment."

Ragsdale added that without McDowell’s guidance, achieving these goals would be more difficult.

At Highland High School, the football culture is defined by ELITE Standards — enthusiasm, love, integrity, toughness, and everyday.

Highland Athletic Director Brandon Larson praised McDowell for his part in fostering this ELITE environment.

"As district athletic director, Steve has been a large support behind the systems and expectations that allow programs like Highland’s to flourish," he said. "His leadership has set a clear vision for what athletics should mean across the district: developing student-athletes who excel on the field and grow as people."

Ryan Salazar, the athletic director at Mesquite High School, said its program is also building on a strong tradition of "pride in school, teaching accountability and leadership, and carrying on a legacy of excellence."

Salazar said McDowell has a significant impact on that process.

"Mr. McDowell ensures that our programs are always supported and that students come first in every decision," Salazar said. "He played an important role in the hiring of our new football coach and continues to show up at games to support our athletes and our school community."

At Desert Ridge High School, Athletic Director Kevin Swann described McDowell as a "mentor and resource" who has helped him with complex and difficult processes.

Swann said the culture is focused on "discipline, responsibility, accountability — all qualities that are staples in McDowell's own life.”

Swann added that he "could not ask for a better person to help me grow as a leader and an athletic director."

In an interview with Gilbert High’s football team captains and coaching staff, one key word was brought up — legacy. This is McDowell’s ultimate legacy, a districtwide commitment to supporting students not just as athletes, but also as people.

For McDowell, the game of football may have changed, but the lessons learned on the field remain the same.

"I want every student to have the same kind of experience I did," McDowell said. "That's why I came back to Gilbert and worked my way back into education."

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