Brett McNeal Sr. begins his first year as Executive Director of Athletics at North Central University in 2026. McNeal brings more than 20 years of experience in athletic administration, coaching, student development, and community engagement. He officially assumes the role on June 15, 2026.
Prior to joining North Central, McNeal built an extensive career within Minneapolis Public Schools. Most recently, he served as Director of Athletics for Camden and FAIR High Schools while also holding district leadership roles as District Assistant Director of Athletics and District Title IX Assistant Athletics Compliance Coordinator. In these positions, he oversaw athletic operations, coach supervision and evaluation, event management, compliance, budgeting, fundraising initiatives, student-athlete eligibility, facility management, and community partnerships.
Before his district-wide leadership responsibilities, McNeal spent more than a decade as Athletic Director at Edison High School and South High School in Minneapolis. Throughout his career, he has developed a reputation for building inclusive athletic environments, mentoring coaches and staff, strengthening community relationships, and creating opportunities for student-athletes to succeed academically and athletically. His leadership experience also includes serving as a Behavior Dean and Head Varsity Basketball Coach at Minneapolis North High School, where he guided his alma mater to a Minnesota state championship.
Widely respected throughout Minnesota athletics and education, McNeal remains actively involved in several professional and community organizations. He served within the Minneapolis Association of Administrators and Supervisors, the National Organization of Minority Athletic Directors, Hospitality House Youth Development, Inc., and ForeUs. He is also a member of the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA).
A standout student-athlete, McNeal was one of Minnesota's premier basketball players during his career at Minneapolis North High School. The 6-foot-3 guard led the Polars to three consecutive state tournament appearances while earning All-American honors and being named Minnesota Mr. Basketball in 1985.
McNeal continued his playing career at Western Kentucky University, where he competed for the NCAA Division I Hilltoppers men's basketball program. During his collegiate career, he appeared in 120 games, averaged 15.5 points per game, and earned Collegiate All-American honors. In recognition of his impact on the program, he was inducted into the Western Kentucky Athletics Hall of Fame in 2008.
McNeal earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Western Kentucky University and a Master of Science in Athletic Administration from Grace College & Seminary. He also holds the prestigious Certified Master Athletic Administrator (CMAA) designation through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association, one of the highest professional certifications in athletic administration.
A lifelong Minneapolis resident, McNeal and his wife, Gabriel, reside in Crystal, Minnesota. They are the proud parents of five children: Bretson, Jasper, Brett II, Carrington, and Carmello. In his free time, McNeal enjoys reading and golfing.
