Meet Katy Phillips

Athletics Director

Tell us a little bit about you and your background.

I’m from Pittsburgh, Pa., and bleed all things black and gold — so my transition to Tatnall seemed spot on! I’ve been an athlete since I could walk; I played collegiate-level lacrosse and got my coaching break at that level. My experiences instilled a tremendous passion for athletics and its significance in my and my athletes’ lives.

How has your move to Delaware been?

I appreciate the support I have received from everyone in the Tatnall community. My initial impression of Delaware is that everyone seems to know everyone else, but I’ve never felt like an outsider. Both my Tatnall community and the Delaware Athletic Director (AD) community have welcomed me with open arms, and I am grateful for their kindness.

How would you describe Tatnall Athletics?

Tatnall is committed to providing a superior experience at every level. The Board and School’s administration are dedicated to going above and beyond expectations. Like the school, the Tatnall Athletics program has a strong reputation. Our Hornets have benefited from the outstanding coaching and athletic support staff.

What do you find most rewarding about being an athletic director?

I love the interaction with the athletes and coaches. I’ve always been excited about supporting people who want to set and then achieve goals. Working within an athletic department allows me to do that.

What are some of your favorite athletic experiences as a player and coach?

Winning a 3rd WPIAL 3A championship against my high school on the field where I coached collegiately with my dad as my Assistant— even ANOTHER Steeler Super Bowl can’t touch that!

What is your belief on the role of athletics in PK-12 education?

The athletic realm is so much more than just skill-building at all levels. It is a unique atmosphere that teaches children to push themselves, work with others, and communicate with their peers differently than in the classroom or the playground.

How would you define a successful athletic program?

People always think successful teams win, but to win consistently, it takes work behind the scenes to build a program. In order to acheive success, all of our programs should be elevated through professional development, leadership opportunities for our athletes, and departmental improvements such as new uniforms, improving training equipment, etc. All that aside, I mark true success by ensuring the experience our athletes have in our programs is excellent, and the peer and coach relationships are ones that our students carry with them.

Who are your role models, and why?

My uncle, my dad, Margie Smith (my college coach), and Heather Lyke, the University of Pittsburgh AD, have all tremendously impacted my life in very different ways. My college coach took a chance on me as an athlete from a non-traditional area. She created a family atmosphere that allowed us to respect but depend on her. My uncle has been by my side, helping every business I have started, and stepped in when my mom became ill. The Tatnall community will get to know my dad as he participates in everything I am a part of — he loves sports! As for Heather Lyke at Pitt, I have never met her, but I am impressed by her work with the Pitt Athletic Department and their move to the Atlantic Coast Conference.

What are your top 5 favorite things in life and why?

Ahh, Pittsburgh, anything Pittsburgh, the Steelers, my family, and sushi. Pittsburgh is such a special place for me. I grew up there and also became who I am today through opportunities there. Everyone from Pittsburgh has such a sense of community and pride. And anywhere you go, you can find someone who is from there. Sushi just happens to be my favorite food ever!

What’s this Pittsburgh Steelers tradition we’ve heard about from you?

Steeler Sunday starts when you wake up with your jersey — any jersey is considered business casual in Pittsburgh. Where you watch, if you’re going to the stadium, who gave you your first Terrible Towel, and hating the Ravens, are all part of the tradition. And, of course, critiquing every moment of the game. The Rooney family has been amazing to Pittsburgh, and Mike Tomlin continues to be a coach I believe in wholeheartedly!