On February 1, 2026 Chris Guisti took over the new role of NFA’s Athletic Director, succeeding former Athletic Director Roy Wentworth, who retired after 24 years of service to NFA, including eight years as Athletic Director. Guisti has served NFA for 27 years, including eight seasons as Head Coach for the Boys’ Basketball team. He is also the former Department Head for Special Education, and a classroom teacher. His clear vision for NFA Athletics sets up the teams he oversees for not only athletic success, but also to ensure student-athletes are having an enjoyable time competing in the sport(s) they love. “I have high standards…we want to compete and excel and win accolades, but at the same time, we’re smiling while doing it,” said Guisti. 

Guisti has a clarity for the department that has been established while making certain that student-athletes’ voices are heard. “I have an open door, my door is always open. I want to also make sure that student-athletes know that (I am available), if anything is bothering them, or if they feel they need to talk about something. I’m always gonna be a person that’s gonna listen and listen first to understand (the situation) before I seek to come up with a solution,” says Guisti. The student body culture and identity shapes a school, notes Guisti. He believes that athletics shapes a large part of what NFA is, alongside renowned departments like music, visual arts, and science. “Our athletics department is the front porch of NFA. A lot of our athletic events represent what the outside public sees at NFA. We need to make sure that we’re always putting our best foot forward and that we’re presenting everything in a way that’s enticing for the public to watch and also for the future students to come be a part of,” states Guisti. His relationships are well-connected around campus due to his previous service to the school. Ensuring that his relationships stay strong with teachers, students, and athletes comes as a strong suit for Guisti. His preparation to solve issues that can possibly arise allows him to be flexible in situations, “I already know the players involved in a lot of the decision making here at NFA, whether it be the administrators or the teachers. So when something comes up that we have to solve, I already feel like I have those relationships built,” said Gusiti.

Guisti looks forward to the future in his new role at NFA. As he steps into this new chapter, Guisti brings not only experience, but a deep understanding of NFA’s culture and community. With a commitment to competitive excellence, open communication, and strong relationships across campus, he aims to build upon the foundation laid before him by Wentworth. If his vision holds true, the department will continue to thrive not just in wins and accolades, but in the pride, passion, and sense of belonging it creates for every student-athlete at NFA.