WEST DES MOINES — The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) named its new executive director on Thursday.
The organization tabbed Erin Gerlich as its new executive director, succeeding Jean Berger.
"I am deeply honored to be selected as the next IGHSAU Executive Director," Gerlich said in a press release from the IGHSAU. "I am committed to leading the organization towards continued success. In my new position, I look forward to championing the growth and empowerment of female athletes across Iowa."
Berger, who served as the executive director of the IGHSUA for the previous eight years, announced her retirement in February.
Gerlich will assume the role of executive director on June 8, 2024.
According to the release, Gerlich, a Panora native, brings more than 15 years of experience in athletics to her new role. Most recently, Gerlich served as an associate director and sport administrator within the IGHSAU, serving an instrumental role in the sanctioning of girls wrestling in Iowa.
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For her part in the introduction of girls wrestling, Gerlich earned the Charlotte Bailey Award from the Iowa Wrestling Coaches & Officials Association and the AUU Wrestling Women's Empowerment Award in 2023.
Gerlich became the first female president of the Iowa High School Athletic Director Association in 2022, serving for a year.
Previously, Gerlich, who currently resides in Lake Panorama, served as the middle school and high school activities director in the Panorama Community School District.