Home

10%

Legacy of Leadership

Robert Young’s Enduring Impact on Klein ISD

By Klein ISD

May 8^th, 2025

Klein, Texas—What began as a move to a smaller town for the chance to play football grew into a lifelong legacy of leadership, service, and family for Robert Young—former Klein ISD Athletic Director, coach, and proud alumnus. His story is one that spans generations and illustrates the heart of the Klein community.

A Homegrown Foundation

Young’s journey with Klein ISD started in 1960 when his father purchased property in the area. By 1964, the Young family had moved to Klein, giving Robert the opportunity to enroll in a smaller school and pursue his love of football. That decision paid off—he graduated from Klein High School in 1967 as a member of the school’s first-ever district championship football team.

Years later, he would purchase that same family home, rooting his life even deeper into the Klein community.

Legacy of Leadership

A Family Devoted to Klein ISD

Behind Young’s success stood his wife, Cheryl, whose own contributions to Klein ISD are just as significant. She joined Klein Oak High School on its opening day in 1982 and served faithfully for 25 years until her retirement.

“None of what I accomplished would have been possible without the support and commitment of Cheryl, my wife of 52 years,” Young said. “She took care of our family and made everything else possible.”

The Young family’s legacy continues today, with their two children also serving in Klein ISD—an enduring testament to their commitment to public education.

Legacy of Leadership

From the Field to the Front Office

After graduating, Young returned to Klein ISD to begin his career in education and athletics. His first role was as an assistant coach at Klein Forest High School. Two years later, then-Athletic Director Alan Boren recognized Young’s leadership potential and promoted him to head coach.

Young led the Klein Forest Eagles for seven years before moving into district leadership. Under the guidance of his mentor and successor, Sonny Novak, he served 13 years as Assistant Athletic Director. Eventually, Young assumed the role of Athletic Director himself, a position he held for another seven years.

“I was fortunate to learn from the very best,” Young said, referencing Boren and Novak—two icons of Klein ISD athletics. Novak, in particular, left a lasting mark, earning recognition as Texas High School Athletic Director of the Year in 1993 and a place in the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association Hall of Honor in 1998.

Young was himself named to the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association Hall of Honor in 2011, and Boren was named in 1993.

Looking Ahead While Honoring the Past

Robert Young’s contributions to Klein ISD go far beyond wins on the field—they represent a dedication to student development, leadership, and family values that continue to influence the district today. His legacy is a reflection of the very spirit that makes Klein ISD a proud community of learning and service.

© 2026 Klein ISD

Klein Cain Student Earns Perfect Score on ACT Test

January 16^th, 2026

A Dream Team in Strings: Webb and Cook’s Impact at Krimmel

January 12^th, 2026

Klein Police Department Hosts Annual Holiday Heroes Event

January 8^th, 2026

From Classroom to Color Guard: Payton Grant Shines as a Leader at Klein Oak

January 5^th, 2026

Klein ISD Celebrates 71 Winter Graduates

December 19^th, 2025

Superintendent’s Message - Quarter 2 Recap - 2025-26

December 18^th, 2025

Loading, please hold on.