Knight named Lexington 1’s new athletic director

LEXINGTON, S.C. — At its April 21, 2026, meeting, the Lexington County School District One Board of Trustees approved the recommendation of Dr. Garrett Knight as the new district athletic director, effective July 1, 2026. Knight replaces Lexington One Athletic Director Chad Leaphart, who retires at the end of this school year. 

Dr. Knight brings more than 20 years of progressive experience in athletic administration, coaching leadership and student-athlete development. He currently serves as athletic director at Westwood High School. 

During his time at Westwood High, Dr. Knight has expanded opportunities for student-athletes by establishing boys and girls swim programs, developing strength and performance teams and supporting the launch of girls flag football. He also implemented “Redhawk 101,” an academic support initiative designed to help student-athletes succeed in the classroom.

Prior to his current role, Dr. Knight served as athletic director at Great Falls High School from 2019 to 2022, where he managed athletic operations, coordinated transportation and developed strength and conditioning programs. While there, he established new programs, including girls volleyball and boys golf, and introduced an after-school nutrition program to support student-athlete performance and wellness.

He also served as a varsity assistant football coach and strength and conditioning coach, as well as a former middle and high school teacher.

A recognized leader in his field, Dr. Knight was named the 2025–26 State 5A Athletic Director of the Year. He is a certified master athletic administrator and a certified 4.0 teacher evaluator, with expertise in strategic program development, Title IX compliance, sponsorship growth and community engagement.

Dr. Knight is actively involved in professional organizations, serving as president of the South Carolina High School Strength Coaches Association and as a board member and hospitality chair for the South Carolina Athletic Administrators Association. 

He has also been selected as Region Coordinator for Region 4-4A (2026–28) and serves on the state advisory board for the National High School Strength Coaches Association.