Mechanicsburg, PA, December 30, 2025
Mark E. Byers has been named the new Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA), effective January 1, 2026. With extensive experience in the organization since 1999, Byers takes over from Robert A. Lombardi, who will retire at the end of 2025. This leadership transition represents a significant development in high school athletics governance in Pennsylvania, ensuring the continuation of the PIAA’s mission to promote fair play and sportsmanship for student-athletes across its over 1,400 member schools.
Mark E. Byers Named New PIAA Executive Director
A New Era for Pennsylvania High School Sports Begins in 2026
Mechanicsburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) has announced the appointment of Mark E. Byers as its new Executive Director, effective January 1, 2026. Byers, who has been dedicated to the PIAA since 1999, will take over from Robert A. Lombardi, who has been at the helm since 2012 and will retire at the end of 2025. This transition represents a significant moment in the governance of high school athletics in Pennsylvania.
As the state’s governing body for middle and high school athletics, the PIAA plays a crucial role in promoting fair play, sportsmanship, and opportunity for student-athletes across more than 1,400 member schools. With Byers at the wheel, the PIAA aims to uphold these values while navigating the future of interscholastic sports.
Leadership Background of Mark E. Byers
Mark E. Byers has held various key roles within the PIAA, including Assistant Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer. His long-standing commitment and experience with the organization uniquely position him to oversee the association’s operations, such as establishing and enforcing uniform standards in athletic competition among member schools.
Byers’ familiarity with the internal workings of the PIAA allows him to approach the challenges ahead with an informed perspective. He understands the vital importance of promoting safe and healthy athletic competition, ensuring a focus on the well-being of the student-athletes under his stewardship.
Significance of the Transition
The transition from Lombardi to Byers symbolizes continuity and evolution within the PIAA. Lombardi’s tenure has seen notable changes, such as the expansion from four to six classifications in several sports for both boys and girls. This adjustment helped to create a more equitable playing field and offered greater opportunities for athletes to compete.
With these foundations laid, Byers will be tasked with maintaining the momentum established by his predecessor while introducing innovative approaches to address the growing complexities of high school sports in Pennsylvania.
Supporting Pennsylvania’s Athletic Community
The PIAA’s role extends beyond merely governing sports; it integrates local community values and identity into the framework of athletics. With Byers’ leadership, the association is expected to strengthen ties with local sponsors and communities, thereby enhancing the support network for student-athletes and their respective programs.
Local school pride is paramount in fostering enthusiastic fan engagement and community involvement. As high school sports serve as a rallying point, Byers’ initiatives will aim to elevate the spectator experience and encourage greater attendance at games and events.
About the PIAA
Founded in 1913, the PIAA has been a guiding influence for middle and high school athletics in Pennsylvania. Its mission includes providing a consistent and fair framework for interscholastic sports while advocating for the ethical treatment of athletes and promoting sportsmanship. The appointment of Byers signifies a continued commitment to that mission.
Conclusion
Mark E. Byers’ expected leadership as the new Executive Director of the PIAA heralds a promising future for high school sports in Pennsylvania. His extensive experience with the association is poised to enhance the governance of athletics while fostering community engagement and support. As we look towards 2026, it’s a great time to encourage local fans and families to attend games and support their local school teams. Follow HEREPhiladelphia for more uplifting stories centered around Philadelphia’s high school sports.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is the new Executive Director of the PIAA?
What is the PIAA?
What significant changes has the PIAA undergone under Robert A. Lombardi’s leadership?
When did Robert A. Lombardi announce his retirement?
What is Mark E. Byers’ background with the PIAA?
Key Features of the PIAA Executive Director Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Executive Director | Mark E. Byers |
| Effective Date | January 1, 2026 |
| Successor to | Robert A. Lombardi |
| Years with PIAA | Since 1999 |
| Previous Roles | Assistant Executive Director, Chief Operating Officer |
| PIAA Founded | 1913 |
| Number of Member Schools | Over 1,400 |
| Significant Change Under Lombardi | Expansion from four to six classifications in several sports for both boys and girls |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
