New AIA Director Jim Dean Previews 2025-26 Season Initiatives

The Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) is set to embark on the 2025-2026 school year with a new face leading the organization. Dr. Jim Dean (who officially took over as Executive Director on July 1st following the retirement of Director David Hines) recently shared his vision for the year in a welcome video.

Dean's message highlighted two core goals: providing excellent service to member schools and creating new opportunities for student-athletes. To achieve this, the AIA is launching several key initiatives, including a statewide tour, an updated digital pass system, and a renewed focus on student safety.

Here are the main focus points and a recap of what was covered in the video.

The AIA will tackle a tour of all member schools!

The AIA is hitting the road with an ambitious plan dubbed Blitz 282. In August and September, members of the AIA team will visit all 282 member high schools across Arizona. The purpose of this tour is to connect with schools, learn about the athletic programs, and see their facilities up close.

Digital Ticketing

In a move designed to simplify gameday access, the AIA is also officially rolling out a fully digital pass system. After a successful pilot program, all AIA passes will now be digital and accessible on a phone. The system is handled through GoFan.co, a partner that has previously managed ticketing for AIA postseason events. This change is intended to make the process smoother for schools and fans alike.

Student Safety

Student safety is a major point of emphasis for Dr. Dean and the AIA. The organization has partnered with the Arizona Risk Retention Trust to launch a new initiative focused on raising awareness about hazing and related state laws. This collaboration aims to educate students and staff on the serious implications of hazing.

In a first for the organization, the AIA will now require all individuals requesting a media pass to undergo a background check. (Same background check that contest officials undergo) This new layer of security is being implemented to better protect student-athletes during interviews and media interactions, ensuring that all approved media personnel have been properly vetted.

Dean is committed to helping out its member schools

Dean concluded his message by wishing everyone a great school year and emphasizing that the AIA team is ready to support its member schools in any way they can.