Mike Freace Begins Tenure as Athletic Director

Mike Freace has begun his tenure as the new Athletic Director at Covenant Day. A respected leader in education, athletics, and organizational development, Freace brings over 29 years of experience to the athletic department.

For the past six years, Freace served as Covenant Day’s high school principal. During this time, he was responsible for every aspect of the high school, including setting vision, developing culture, creating organizational teams and processes, and partnering with parents/families in the education of their children.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed the last six years and the opportunity to work with a great team of leaders and faculty in the high school. I would not trade it for anything, as it has stretched me as a leader and given me the opportunity to grow and develop personally and spiritually,” said Freace. “I am thankful for everyone who trusted and invested in me during that time. As I have transitioned to the Athletic department, I am excited for a new challenge and the opportunity to work with another great team of leaders and coaches. The goal and desire is to set a strong and compelling vision that sets Covenant Day apart in the Charlotte athletic arena.”

In 2023, Freace co-founded Oak Hill Athletic Consulting Group, a firm whose mission is “to partner with Christian organizations to develop thriving athletic programs characterized by great cultures and competitive excellence… to encourage and compel leaders to fulfill their calling in the athletic arena.” In this role, Freace has worked with numerous high school and collegiate organizations, assisting with strategic planning, executive coaching, athletic audits, small group training, and coaching/leadership seminars.

Before joining Covenant Day, Freace spent two years as the Executive Director and Head Coach for the Charlotte Eagles and Missionary Athletes International, an international sports ministry that uses soccer to introduce people to Jesus.

Before Freace moved to the Charlotte area, he spent 18 years at Westminster Schools of Augusta, where he served as physical education teacher, communications director, athletics director, director of student life, dean of student life, dean of students, and principal. Simultaneously, he served as the boys' and girls' head coach, leading his teams to 9 state championships. Freace was named the Augusta Chronicle Coach of the Year eight times, Georgia State Coach of the Year nine times, and Regional Coach of the Year twenty-three times. He received the Augusta Sports Council Gold Medal for Excellence in Coaching and was named to the Westminster Schools of Augusta Hall of Fame.

Freace holds a Master's in Organizational Leadership from Roberts Wesleyan University, where he served as Director of Athletic Facilities and Sports Information Director. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and Health from Houghton University, where he was a member of the soccer team that reached three national tournaments.

Mike and his wife Claire, an English teacher in the high school, have three children - Madeline ‘22, Sean ’25, and Jack ’28.