Former Leader Returns to Guide HHCA Athletics into its Next Chapter

Hilton Head Christian Academy enters an exciting new chapter in its athletics program with the return of Jason Grunkemeyer as Athletic Director for the 2026–2027 school year. A respected and familiar leader within the HHCA community, he will once again lead HHCA Athletics and serve as Varsity Boys Basketball Head Coach.

Grunkemeyer brings more than 20 years of experience in athletics, including leadership roles at the University of Maine, Ball State University, Miami University, and Saint Louis University. During his previous time at HHCA, he led the Eagles' Varsity Boys Basketball team to a runner-up finish in the 2023 state tournament and was named Region Coach of the Year. At Ball State, he helped guide the program to three Mid-American Conference (MAC) West Division championships and was voted the top assistant coach in the conference by his peers.

Jason Grunkemeyer coaching at Ball State University, where he helped guide the program to three Mid-American Conference (MAC) West Division championships and was voted the top assistant coach in the conference by his peers.
 

Coach Grunkemeyer first joined HHCA in 2021 in a student-athlete and coach development leadership role and as Head Varsity Boys Basketball Coach before being named Athletic Director for the following school year. During that time, he worked closely with coaches and student-athletes to strengthen culture, build alignment across programs, and invest in the development of the whole athlete. He built strong relationships within the community while reinforcing a Christ-centered approach to competition, leadership, and personal growth.

Since his time at HHCA, Grunkemeyer has continued to serve in senior athletic leadership at the collegiate level, most recently as Deputy Director of Athletics at the University of Maine. There, he helped oversee a Division I athletics department, contributing to strategic planning, personnel leadership, operations, facilities, and student-athlete development. He also served as the sport administrator for men’s and women’s basketball.

Jason brings a rare combination of high-level experience, strong leadership, and a clear commitment to developing student-athletes who compete with excellence and represent Christ in all they do.

- Doug Langhals, Head of School

Grunkemeyer’s return reflects a continued investment in a program that develops student-athletes who compete at a high level while remaining grounded in Christ-centered purpose. His background spans recruiting, program strategy, player development, and operational leadership, equipping him to lead a comprehensive and competitive athletics program with both conviction and care.

HHCA has a strong legacy of excellence in athletics, and the school is building on that foundation while continuing to pursue excellence across all programs. Along with Grunkemeyer’s return, Coach John Houpt will step up to serve as Assistant Athletic Director. Since joining HHCA in 2022, Houpt has played a key role in developing the school’s Strength and Conditioning program while also serving as an assistant football coach and physical education mentor. With more than 20 years of experience in athletics education, he also brings valuable leadership, consistency, and a deep commitment to student development to the team.

I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to return to HHCA. This is a special community with a clear mission and a strong foundation. I look forward to investing in our student-athletes, supporting our coaches, and leading a program that reflects both competitive excellence and a commitment to Christ.

- Jason Grunkemeyer, Incoming Athletic Director
 

Jason Grunkemeyer with his wife, Angie, and their children: Josh, Nate, and Evie. The Grunkemeyer family looks forward to returning to the Lowcountry and being part of the HHCA community.

Jason and his wife, Angie, are excited to return to South Carolina with their children. Their son Josh will attend Anderson University in the fall, while Nate will be a junior and Evie will be in 5th grade. The HHCA community extends a warm welcome back to the Grunkemeyer family.

We play for an Audience of One.