CELEBRATED COACH AND EDUCATOR, JESSE STEWART '07, IS NEW ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

Kristin Bendlin
Aug 28
2 min read

Updated: Aug 31

Pius XI Catholic High School is excited to share that Jesse Stewart ‘07 will serve as the school’s new Athletic Director effective September 1, 2025. Mr. Stewart, a Pius XI graduate from the class of 2007, joined Pius XI in 2021 as an English teacher and football coach. He has since been named Division Head for the English Department and has also served as the Head Coach for both the Football and the Powerlifting programs.

Known to be a wonderful community member and colleague, Jesse has earned the respect of both his students and the student-athletes he leads– on the field, in the weight room, and in the classroom. Under his guidance and encouragement, the Pius XI Football Team returned to post-season play for the first time in over a decade, qualifying for the 2024 playoffs. As Powerlifting Coach, both male and female student athletes continue to earn spots in the top three at National competitions.

School President Jack Herbert says of Mr. Stewart “...his passion, energy, and commitment to excellence make him well-suited to build on the strong tradition of Pius XI Athletics. I have high expectations for Jesse in this important leadership role, and I am confident that our student-athletes and coaching staff will benefit greatly from his vision and guidance.”

Mr. Stewart earned his bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Carroll University. Prior to his arrival at Pius XI in 2021, Mr. Stewart worked as a Behavioral Treatment Therapist at Autism Intervention Milwaukee, LLC and subsequently worked as an educator for Seton Catholic Schools.

While Mr. Stewart will continue to serve as Head Football Coach, he has stepped down from his Powerlifting coaching and academic leadership roles in order to take on the responsibility of Athletic Director. When asked about his plan for the future of the Pius XI athletic department Mr. Stewart stated the following: “My commitment is to our student-athletes, coaches, and staff—not just in their athletic growth, but in who they are as people. I’m excited to walk alongside them, cheer for them, and help create an environment where everyone feels supported and valued.”