WYNIA: ‘OUR LOSS IS THE STATE’S GAIN’

SDHSAA-bound Kristina Sage honored at Monday’s Wizard Relays

It was a brief moment in time — maybe two minutes — but brought on by an enormous footprint left by a staff member at Freeman Public Schools who is leaving for Pierre at the conclusion of the 2023-24 school year, the last of a 34-year legacy for Kristina Sage.

Sage was recognized by public address announcer and the voice of the Flyers, Paul Wynia, at the Wizard Relays late Monday afternoon, April 29 and presented with a gift by FHS Principal Katie Juhnke — a necklace engraved with “AD Sage.”

Sage announced last month that she was leaving Freeman Public after being offered the job as an assistant executive director with the South Dakota High School Activities Association. She starts this summer.

“Our loss is the state’s gain,” Wynia said in his comments of affirmation as part of the surprise presentation on Monday. “Nobody has been more committed to serving the students and staff here at Freeman Public than you. Thirty-four years is a long time to stay in one place and it is of no surprise to any of us who know you how valuable you have been to this school.

“We can’t be selfish in wanting you to stay,” Wynia continued. “You will continue to have a huge impact on students’ lives in your new position for years to come.”

Sage takes over as assistant director with the SDHSAA for Jo Auch, who is retiring after serving the association since 2008.

Her hire was formally approved by the SDHSAA board of directors at its regular monthly meeting on April 17.

SDHSAA Executive Director Dan Swartos said at the meeting the association is “incredibly thankful to have experienced Jo’s expertise, kindness and humility for the past 16 years.”

Sage’s duties will include oversight of boys’ and girls’ tennis, volleyball, competitive cheer, competitive dance, sideline cheer, boys’ and girls’ basketball, gymnastics and softball.

“Kristina’s experience at Freeman High School and the Cornbelt Conference, as well as her established relationships with athletic directors across the state, will lend itself well to the position,” Swartos said.

FHS Principal Katie Juhnke and outgoing Freeman Public Athletic Director Kristina Sage are pictured at Monday’s Wizard Relays. PHOTO BY JEREMY WALTNER