There is a new AD in town.
Presley Papachek has taken the reigns as athletic director for Yuma High School and Yuma Middle School. Dave Sheffield filled that role for the spring semester, but now is serving as assistant principal at YHS.
“I’m just trying to stay above water,” Papachek said, “but all the administration have been a big help to me. It helps that (YHS Principal Brady Nighswonger and Sheffield) both have been ADs.”
Papachek has moved to Yuma with his wife Becca, and their young daughter Lennon, who will turn one year old on the first day of the 2022-23 school year, August 16. Becca is able to continue her job, working remotely as a project manager for a construction company.
“I am loving the town so much,” he said. “The people have been great, and I love the slower pace out here.”
If the last name sounds familiar, it is because Papachek is the brother of Kellie (Papachek) Seward. Presley said being closer to more of his family also has been a big bonus.
He grew up in Johnstown, graduating from Roosevelt High School in 2011. He said he attended school and wrestled at Western State College, now known Western Colorado University. He was injured, though, and ended up moving back to the northern Front Range.
Papachek took classes at University of Northern Colorado while also working, eventually graduating from UNC in 2020. He spent seven years coaching wrestling at Highland High School in Ault, and spent one year as the P.E. teacher.
He and his family now are in Yuma, and he is settling into his new role.
“It has worked out really well,” Papachek said. “I am super blessed. This is a good role for me. I love sports and seeing kids find their niche.”
He said he plans on pursuing a Master’s in sports administration after he settles into his new job.
