Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District has appointed Mr. Austin Cole as Interim Athletic Director for the remainder of the school year. Mr. Cole has served at Waverly-Shell Rock High School since 2018 and brings extensive coaching and leadership experience to the role. Cole will succeed Greg Bodensteiner who recently accepted a job at Wartburg College and will transition out of the role in early January 2026.
“Austin is a student-centered leader who knows our programs, our coaches, and our community,” said Brady Weber, High School Principal. “His steady approach and deep relationships will support our student-athletes and activities staff through a smooth transition.”
Mr. Cole’s background includes classroom and coaching roles across Iowa and South Dakota. He taught at Waverly-Shell Rock High School in Waverly, Iowa from 2018 to present, Dakota Valley High School in North Sioux City, South Dakota from 2014 to 2018, and Tipton High School in Tipton, Iowa from 2011 to 2014. His coaching experience includes Head Boys Golf Coach for two years and assistant roles with Varsity Football for 10 years, Varsity Basketball for three years, Boys Golf for three years, and Middle School Football for three years.
A 2011 graduate of Wartburg College with a degree in Secondary Mathematics Education, Mr. Cole was a member of the Wartburg College football team from 2007 to 2010. He holds a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of South Dakota.
“I am honored to serve our students, families, and coaches in this interim capacity,” said Cole. “W-SR has a strong tradition of excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts. I look forward to supporting our coaches and sponsors as we help students grow, compete, and represent Go-Hawk pride.”
The district will share information about the permanent athletic director search at a later date.