Kurt Cohen, current superintendent of Potosi School District, has a long history of involvement in high school sports. Although he was only involved in the basketball team in high school, he has found enjoyment in coaching a variety of sports. Throughout Mr. Cohen's career, he has worked with athletes around Southwest Wisconsin of a range of ages. Throughout his time at four different schools, Mr. Cohen has stayed actively involved in both girls’ and boys’ high school athletics. His broad involvement shows his commitment and passion for not only sports, but also his passion for the communities he has served.
At Argyle High School, he served as an assistant coach for girls' basketball and softball before returning to his alma mater, where he took on the role of head girls' basketball coach. His time at Mishicot High School was especially diverse, as he coached middle school boys basketball, assisted with girls basketball, and later became the head girls basketball coach. He most recently coached at Darlington High School, where he was the assistant and later the head girls basketball coach, while also contributing as an assistant coach in baseball and track. Mr. Cohen says he has learned many valuable lessons and strongly believes that high school athletics are an extension of the classroom. He states that through sports, students gain important life skills such as teamwork, handling both success and failure, and understanding the value of hard work.
Currently, Mr. Cohen serves as a member of the WIAA's Board of Control. Mr. Cohen and the board ensure the day-to-day operations of the WIAA continue as smoothly as possible, while hearing any appeals that student-athletes, families, or schools have about any rule violations. Mr. Cohen states, “The fun part is being able to attend state tournaments and handing out awards.” Now, even though Mr. Cohen is not always in the stands at Potosi’s games, he always has the live feed on, giving his time and support from home.
In every role he has taken on, from coach to superintendent, Mr. Cohen has remained dedicated to supporting student-athletes and strengthening the communities around him. By being involved through the board of control and as superintendent, Mr. Cohen gives his support and time to create a safe and inclusive environment. No matter the role Mr. Cohen holds, he continues to show his support and commitment to those around him.