September/October - 4

EDITORIAL between the lines
FACILITATING
SCHOOL PRIDE
By Wesley Sykes, managing editor
H
igh school athletic facilities serve as more than just venues
for sports competitions; they are hubs of school pride,
community engagement, and student development.
Athletic directors play a pivotal role in leveraging these
facilities to enhance school spirit and foster a sense of
unity among students, staff, and the local community.
By strategically utilizing these spaces, athletic directors can
create a positive environment that promotes school pride and
boosts overall morale.
Creating Inclusive Spaces - One of the key ways athletic
directors can foster school pride is by transforming their
athletic facilities into inclusive spaces that cater to a wide range
of interests. Beyond traditional sports events, consider hosting
diverse activities such as intramural leagues, community
fitness programs, and school-wide events that allow students
of all skill levels to participate. By offering a variety of
opportunities, athletic directors can engage a broader audience
and create an environment where every student feels valued
and involved.
Showcasing Achievements - Another effective strategy is
to prominently display the school's athletic achievements within
the facility. Establish a " Wall of Fame " or trophy display that
showcases not only championship trophies but also individual
accolades, records, and significant milestones. This not only
celebrates past successes but also motivates current athletes
to strive for excellence and contribute to the school's legacy.
Student Involvement - Athletic directors can empower
students to take ownership of their school's athletic facility
by involving them in its management and upkeep. Studentled
initiatives, such as mural painting, facility decoration,
or organizing pep rallies, can instill a sense of pride and
ownership among the student body. This involvement not
only strengthens the students' bond with their school but
also provides valuable leadership opportunities and teamwork
experiences.
Community Engagement - High school athletic facilities
can serve as gathering points for the local community. Athletic
directors can organize events such as charity fundraisers,
youth sports clinics, or neighborhood fitness challenges.
These events foster a sense of belonging among community
members, enhance the school's reputation, and contribute to a
positive relationship between the school and its surrounding
neighborhoods.
Through these strategic efforts, the athletic facility becomes
more than just a physical space - it becomes a symbol of
collective pride and a source of inspiration for students, staff,
and the entire community.
4 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023
MANAGING EDITOR
EDITORIAL
Wesley Sykes, 616-520-2149
CADedit@coachad.com
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EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
TOM BASS, Former NFL Assistant, Cincinnati Bengals, Tampa Bay
Buccaneers & San Diego Chargers * DR. DAVID HOCH, Retired Athletic
Director, Baltimore County, MD * ABE WEHMILLER, Director of Athletics,
Charlotte Country Day School, Charlotte, NC * ALAN STEIN, Head Strength
and Conditioning Coach, Nike Elite DeMatha Catholic High School, MD *
PETE KITTEL, Principal, Brillion High School, WI * DARREN FENSTER, Minor
League Manager, Boston Red Sox & Founder/CEO, Coaching Your Kids, LLC,
Neptune, NJ * JOSH HILS, Soccer Coach, Coe-Brown Northwood Academy,
NH * DR. BRANDEN LIPPY, Athletic Director, Lampeter-Strasburg High
School, Lancaster, PA
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September/October

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