Tom Wilfong
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For 35 years, Tom Wilfong has been a fixture in Stanwood High School’s hallways, classrooms, gyms, and athletic fields. This spring, the longtime assistant principal and former athletic director is retiring, closing a remarkable chapter of service to the Spartans.
Wilfong’s journey with Stanwood began in 1990 when he was hired straight out of Western Washington University. From his first days as a PE teacher to his leadership as an administrator, he has been a constant presence, shaping student-athletes and building a legacy that will last far beyond his retirement. Spartan fans would be hard-pressed to recall a game, match, or school event where Wilfong wasn’t seen roaming the sidelines, the stands, or the hallways — always engaged, always supporting his students.
For the first 16 years of his career, Wilfong was a teacher in the SHS physical education department, leading courses in PE, athletic weight training, and adaptive PE. He served as the PE department chair for many years while simultaneously leading the Spartans’ wrestling program as head coach from 1990 to 2006. Under his leadership, the wrestling team flourished, and his 2004-05 squad was recently inducted into the SHS Athletic Hall of Fame. That season, Wilfong earned both League and Regional Coach of the Year honors.
Alongside wrestling, Wilfong spent a decade as an assistant football coach, including the 1996-97 season when the Spartans went deep into the state playoffs. That team has also been enshrined in the SHS Athletic Hall of Fame.
In 2006, Wilfong transitioned into administration, becoming an assistant principal while serving as assistant athletic director for a year. By 2007, he had stepped into the role of athletic director, a position he held for 16 years before stepping back into full-time assistant principal duties in 2023.
As athletic director, Wilfong oversaw Spartan athletics, organizing countless tournaments and postseason events, including playoff venues for multiple sports. He also played a pivotal role as one of the creators of the SHS Athletic Hall of Fame, which now celebrates the achievements of former Spartan athletes, coaches, and contributors.
His impact extended beyond the school, as he became a respected leader in the Northwest Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA District One), where he helped mentor fellow athletic directors and advocate for student-athletes.
Throughout his career, Wilfong has been known for his leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to Stanwood’s student-athletes. Whether coaching on the mat, leading the athletic department, or supporting students as an administrator, he was dedicated to helping young people grow and succeed.
“Tom’s dedication, integrity, and commitment to students have shaped the very foundation of what it means to be a Spartan,” said Christine Del Pozo, who served as SHS principal from 2005-2023. “Tom never sought the spotlight, but his influence is everywhere. His presence brought both strength and heart to our school, and his absence will be deeply felt.”
Please join us in congratulating Tom Wilfong on his retirement, his career, and his lasting impact on Stanwood High.
