(West Des Moines, IA) – The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union has welcomed in their new executive director Erin Gerlich. She replaces Jean Berger, who helped to advance the IGHSAU in every sport from softball to basketball.
Gerlich was the face of introducing high school girls wrestling in the state of Iowa. She was honored with the Charlotte Bailey Award from the Iowa Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association and earned the AAU Wrestling Women’s Empowerment Award. The Panora native has over 15 years of experience in athletics, after just recently serving as the associate director and sports administrator with the IGHSAU. She primarily focused on both wrestling and tennis as a sports administrator while leading the IGHSAU Student Athletic Advisory Committee.
While serving as the Iowa High School Athletic Directors Association President from 2022-23, she did so as the first female to ever hold the position for the organization. She holds a master’s degree in health promotion from Oklahoma State University and served as the middle and high school activities director in the Panorama Community School District.
“I am deeply honored to be selected as the next IGHSAU Executive Director,” said Gerlich. “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.”
Erin currently resides in Panora, IA on Lake Panorama with her daughter, Avery.
