When former athletic director Marvin Wooten announced he was leaving Meridian earlier in the year, the search for a replacement immediately began. Thankfully, Meridian was able to find Brian Parke, a perfect fit for the position and a great asset for the school.

Growing up in the suburbs of New York, Mr. Parke was immersed in the world of athletics, whether it be playing tackle football with his friends or riding his bike around the neighborhood. He was a tri-athlete, playing basketball, soccer, and baseball all throughout his early childhood.

His interest stemmed from his father, a sports enthusiast who played semi-professional baseball for the Twins. He followed his dad everywhere, from practices and games to other events. Sports have always been a focal point in his life, and Mr. Parke said, “being in sports allowed me to set goals and accomplish things.”

After graduating from the University of West Virginia with a degree in Physical & Health Education, Mr. Parke pursued many different career paths before finally settling as the athletic director here at Meridian High School. He started off as a police officer in the South Bronx for a year, but quit since he missed being involved and interacting with kids. Soon after, he became a middle-school teacher in Loudoun County Public Schools for almost a decade. There, he coached both varsity lacrosse and JV boys basketball.

Afterward, he moved onto a Loudoun County high school, where he was the assistant athletic director and basketball coach for both boys and girls. Finally, he spent six years as the athletic director at Forest Park High School in Prince William County before moving to Meridian.

There were a multitude of reasons why Mr. Parke ended up pursuing this position as an athletic director. He believes he “grew up in the realm” of athletics. “Being an athletic director is what I felt comfortable and compelled to do. It is a good career in public service that is great, helping kids find their goals and passions in life.”

Mr. Parke has been enjoying his time here so far and has no plans to leave. He’s fond of the smaller school district and tightly knit community. He describes Falls Church as having “a small town feel unique compared to a metropolitan area.”

As someone who has previously been associated with some of the larger districts around Virginia, Mr. Parke said, “coming here helps me reminisce what I had growing up and that particular feel of a small school district.”

Mr. Parke is thrilled to be a part of the school system and is excited to watch players get back on the court during the upcoming basketball season. He is looking forward to dealing with the job’s challenges and celebrating the school’s success.