For Ted O’Boyle, being Athletic Director and Activities Director at Seneca High School isn’t just about scheduling games, overseeing teams, or even ensuring that everything runs smoothly. It’s about fostering a culture of excellence, pride, and community—one that extends far beyond the gym, the field, or the classroom. Ted has been in education for 26 years, with 13 of those spent at Seneca High School. Before taking on his current role, he coached football and was also the head girls’ basketball coach for four years. Coaching was always in his blood—his father, uncles, and even an extended family member coached at the college level—but shifting into the role of Athletic Director gave him a new perspective on what makes a great program.

“When you’re coaching, you see the impact up close with your players,” he says. “Now, as AD, I get to see it from a different angle—I see the whole picture, the entire athletic culture.” Seneca High School has long been known for its strong basketball tradition, but under Ted’s leadership, the school has developed into a well-rounded powerhouse across multiple sports. In the past few years, Seneca has seen success in football, cross country, track, baseball, softball, and more. For a small school, that kind of balance is something he takes great pride in.

For Ted, success isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about creating an environment where student-athletes grow into strong, disciplined individuals. His goal is to ensure that every program, every sport, and every activity is given the support it needs to thrive. He credits the school’s coaching staff for much of that success, praising their dedication and commitment to shaping student-athletes both on and off the field. “They work hard, they buy into the culture, and they make sure our kids have a great experience, whether they’re on the court, on the field, or in the weight room,” he says.

Across campus, "The Seneca Way" is more than just a slogan—it’s a philosophy that drives everything. Ted describes it as a mindset, a standard that applies not only to athletics but to academics and school culture as a whole. “It’s something we hold ourselves to, from the way we prepare to the way we compete,” he explains. “It’s not just about sports—it’s about respect, discipline, and how we carry ourselves as a community.” That sense of pride is evident the moment you drive into town. From the shamrocks painted on the streets to the packed stands at games, the community is deeply invested in the school’s success. Seneca’s reputation as a competitive program means that when their teams take the field or court, opponents take notice.

“There’s a reason teams get up for us,” Ted says. “When Seneca shows up, it’s a big deal. Teams circle our game on their schedule because they know we’re bringing intensity, discipline, and tradition.” But for Ted, The Seneca Way isn’t about being better than anyone else—it’s about being the best version of yourself. He believes in accountability and high expectations, making sure that student-athletes understand their role not just as competitors but as representatives of their school and community.

Ted’s passion for mentorship and leadership comes from his own experiences as a player, coach, and now administrator. He grew up playing football for his dad, an old-school coach who taught him the value of hard work, discipline, and resilience. Years later, he found himself coaching his own son, an experience that gave him even greater appreciation for the balance between fairness and fatherhood. “My dad never let me take the easy route, and I did the same with my son,” Ted says. “If he wanted to play, he had to prove he deserved it.”

 His son recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and is now following in the family tradition—pursuing a career in education and coaching. “I told him, ‘Make your own way, but if the right opportunity comes along, don’t be afraid to go for it,’” Ted says.

Beyond athletics, Ted is proud of the entire Seneca High School experience. From the new facilities to the dedicated teachers and supportive administration, he sees a school where students have every opportunity to succeed. “Our kids are respectful, they work hard, and they appreciate what they have,” he says. “Not every school has that kind of climate, and it’s something we don’t take for granted.” Ted O’Boyle has spent his career building programs, supporting students, and shaping a culture that extends far beyond the scoreboard. And when he walks through the halls of Seneca High School each morning, he never once takes it for granted.

“Some people wake up dreading going to work,” he says. “I’ve been here 13 years, and I can honestly say I’ve never felt that way. I love what I do, and I’m grateful to be part of this community.” Because at the end of the day, that’s The Seneca Way.