Leadership Sharing Resources Student Advisory and Teamwork on Opioid Committee Prevention reflects Captains and coaches prepare for Wellness Conference What footprints upcoming season draws hundreds have they left? p. 3 p. 6 p. 4

Building the Future the newsletter of MIAA Educational Athletics Spring 2017 Leadership Training Institute Celebrates 30th Anniversary or the past three decades, the tion painkillers and social emotional annual Leadership Training learning. Institute has been an integral Training, educational materials, Fpart of the MIAA’s Educational Ath- hotel accommodations and meals letics programming and infrastruc- were provided free of charge to par- ture. This past January, a group of ticipants. Workshop sessions were 22 education professionals from conducted at the MIAA Office in across and Rhode Franklin, MA and the Holiday Inn Island participated in the 30th anni- Express in Milford, MA. The mul- versary of this program. The five-day titude of information presented in residential training was facilitated a variety of training formats provid- and directed by the MIAA Educa- ed a productive professional devel- tional Athletics Staff and featured opment opportunity. Participants national trainers Kevin Ringhofer, Members of the Leadership Training Institute’s 30th Anniversary Class of shared the following reflections Marty Harding and Deb Hult. 2017. For a list of participants, see page 2. about this year’s program: Throughout the week, leadership Ryan Murphy, Athletic Direc- trainees learned practical strategies for working and school activity staff members, conduct- tor at Saint Clement High School said, “The with coaches, students and parents to promote ing pre-season meetings, enforcing rules and Leadership Training Institute was the most the five “pillars” of MIAA Educational Ath- codes for effective prevention, workshops for rewarding professional development I have letics – wellness, sportsmanship, leadership, student activity participants and adult lead- ever attended. It was a great opportunity for coaches’ education and community service. ers, responding to student problems, dating professionals to share and improve current Topics for the course included training coaches abuse and safe dating, heroin and prescrip- practices. I would highly recommend this

Educational Athletics Briefs continued on page 2

Student-Athlete of This award is presented nomination form is available share ideas, strategies the Month Award on a monthly basis to to download under “Quick and best practices across April 30 is the deadline to one male and one female Links” at www.miaa.net. the high school sports submit nominations for the student-athlete who display sector and explore future final MIAA Student-Athlete excellence in the areas of Inclusion Symposium approaches and solutions of the Month Award of academics, athletics and May 19 to help sports promote the 2016-17 school year. community service. The This symposium aims to continued on page 2 LTI offers practical strategies to promote inclusion and diversity. The Educational Athletics pillars in schools program includes a variety continued from page 1 of concurrent workshop sessions and provides program to any professional trying to make a their concerns through group and individu- a great opportunity for difference in the field.” al discussion. The lessons learned, as well as participants to share ideas Matthew Bonenfant, Athletic Director at the relationships I have formed through LTI, and successes, as well as Gateway Regional High School said, “The are priceless. Not only have I suggested this discuss current practices training to my athletic director colleagues, and new approaches. LEADERSHIP but I would recommend anyone who works Registration is designed for with students (especially student-athletes) to a team of three participants lessons I learned at the Leadership Training consider applying to participate in LTI.” from a school. For more Institute have helped me, as a teacher, athletic The participants in the Leadership Training information please visit director, and coach, reshape my programs Institute join an alumni base of over 700 past the “Conferences” link and put focus on helping the whole student. attendees. For information regarding how to at www.miaa.net. Since the training, I have hosted a ‘Captain’s apply to participate in next year’s training, Workshop’ for 10th and 11th grade varsi- please contact the MIAA Educational Ath- Reading Between the ty athletes to both teach them the values of letics Staff. Lines: Implicit Bias in being a well-rounded leader, and to address Our Schools – May 11 This annual workshop, conducted in partnership with MSSAA and the Leadership Training Institute Anti-Defamation League’s Class of 2017 A World of Difference Institute, will focus on fostering a bias-free Amanda Alpert, Athletic Director, Chelsea High School environment in the athletic Brij Anand, Athletic Director, Sturgis Public Charter School West arena, the classroom and other areas of student life. David Babine, School Counselor, Rockdale Recovery High School The training is designed Dawn Berens, Wellness Educator, Whitman Middle School to be experiential and discussion-based. Matthew Bonenfant, Athletic Director, Gateway Regional High School Participants will have Marybeth Brandt, Intern, Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association the opportunity to earn PDPs by completing a Ellie Branley, Girls Soccer Coach, Somerville High School follow up action plan. Michael Evans, Athletic Director, Clark School At the Core… Caitlyn Germain, Physical Education/Health Teacher, Burlington High School Leadership for Jennifer Gouvin, Athletic Director, Monson High School Young Men – May 1 This workshop provides Karen Guillemette, Athletic Director, Monomoy Regional High School an opportunity for young Jeremy Lewis, Special Needs Paraprofessional, Keefe Technical High School men to discuss the principles of leadership and Nolan McKinnon, Athletic Director, Innovation Academy Charter School relationships. The theme Ryan Murphy, Athletic Director, Saint Clement High School of relational leadership is woven into activities and Tim Penicaud, Athletic Director, Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School discussions to examine Michelle Perrone, Physical Education/Health Teacher, how leadership skills can apply in daily life and Timothy Ryan, Athletic Director, The Prout School help develop into men Catherine Sullivan, Girls Varsity Soccer Coach, Mashpee High School of character within their school and community. For Aphrodite Tzetzas Purdy, Health/Wellness Educator, Mashpee High School more information, please Jessica Upton, Assistant Athletic Director/Coach, Salem High School visit the “Conferences” link at www.miaa.net Lindsey von Holtz, Athletic Director, Mount Greylock Regional High School Maureen Watson, Athletic Director’s Assistant, Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical High School

2 Building the Future Spring 2017 Captains attend three leadership sessions at March 17 workshop tudent leaders and coaches from across Massachusetts congregated at the MIAA Office on Friday, March 17 for the seasonal “High School Captains Workshop.” This half-day workshop offered three Sseparate sessions designed to prepare the students for their upcoming roles as team leaders and captains. Daniel Switchenko, Exercise Physiologist and Former Head Bas- ketball Coach at Eastern Connecticut State University started the day with a motivational presentation on “The Role of the High School Captain.” Switchenko encouraged the students to make the most of

Captains met for small group discussions and exercises as part Captains and their coaches benefit from leadership training sessions at MIAA of the March 17 High School High School Captains workshops. Captains Workshop at the MIAA Office in Franklin. their leadership experience by displaying the qualities identified in the acronym “DREAMS” – Dedicated, Respect, Enthusiasm, Attitude, Mental Toughness and Sacrifice. Following Dr. Switchenko’s energetic presentation, participants divided into groups for the next session on “Teamwork and Leader- LEADERSHIP ship.” During this session, members of the MIAA Student Advisory Committee facilitated small group discussions and exercises that ex- plored the essential elements of teamwork and how team captains can encourage their teams to function at higher levels. A large group discussion then took place on some of the common themes identified during the group exercises. The third session of the day was facilitated by Dana Hult from Core Trainings. During this session, students reflected upon the essentials of “Goal Setting” and “Action Planning.” Mr. Hult utilized Core Trainings’ methodology to provide the participants with strategies to identify their goals, formulate an action plan and measure their progress. The day concluded with students from the same school working together to develop action plans that can be implemented on an individual, team, school or community level. Seasonal captains workshops will be conducted during the 2017-18 school year. Please click the “Conferences” link at www.miaa.net for additional information.

Building the Future welcomes news from all MIAA member schools. If your students or staff are executing projects and initiatives that fall under The following dates for the “Fundamentals of Coaching” class have been scheduled: any of the five pillars–Wellness, Sportsmanship, Coaches’ May 18, 2017: Foxborough High School, 4:00pm–8:00pm Education, Leadership or May 24, 2017: Somerset Middle School, 4:00pm–8:00pm Community Service–please let us know! Send photos Anyone interested in attending these classes should sign up at http://www.miaa.net/ and stories to Peter Smith at miaa/conferences. Classes are listed individually for registration. Please check frequent- [email protected] or Linda ly, as new classes will be added throughout the year. Taylor at [email protected].

Building the Future Spring 2017 3 As 2016-2017 draws to a close The Student Advisory Committee reflects on the year

The 17 members of the MIAA Student scared to share my opinion, and stand up for youth recreational into high school level ath- Advisory Committee are coming to the end myself, but now because of the opportunities letics. At Hampshire Regional High School, of their service for the 2016–17 school year; SAC has given me I am no longer scared. I am I have organized the Future Lady Raider the seniors will be ending their service on the the first one to jump into a leadership role in program, which brings up female basketball Committee. The members of the committee any sort of situation and now as a three-season players grades one through six who live in any were asked to respond to four questions: captain, I realize that so much 1. In your opinion, how are leadership of what I have accomplished as LEADERSHIP and influence connected? a captain would not be possi- 2. If leadership is influence, how does ble without the experiences I have had. I am of the six towns in the district. The program your role on SAC influence others forever grateful to have been given this op- is free and young female athletes can play on across the state? portunity and would not be the person I am the court with the varsity team. The program 3. What is the “footprint” that you have today without it. gets elementary children interested in playing left as a member of SAC? high school sports. Also, this year female rec- 4. Talk about the personal impact that “Footprint” is a funny way to put reational teams have been scrimmaging at half being a member of SAC has had on you. it because I am a runner and leave time of the varsity games. This brings in fans those behind all the time, but when it to the girls home games and also gets players Here are their reflections: comes to SAC my personal “footprint” interested in the program. Eventually, many has been my passion for making the Western Massachusetts schools will model Amanda Baptiste student ambassador program grow. from the program and integrate youth teams into high school teams. —Amanda Baptiste Positive influence through leadership is im- eadership is in- Taunton High School mensely important in modeling young minds fluence. In a to be great minds. The Student Advisory Com- position of lead- mittee has influenced me to start programs Lership, you influence back at my high school. SAC has helped me those around you in Katelyn Pickunka become a better leader and a lead for more more ways than you Hampshire Regional student athletes. may even realize. From those you influence High School directly, by talking to them to those who may Brett Mazur just watch you from a distance, leaders influ- believe leadership King Philip Regional ence those around them. and influence are High School As an SAC member, I influence others by strongly connect- leading discussions at captains’ workshops and Ied. Both can be positive s a three-year by the way I present myself at all times while I conditions. Leadership SAC member I am in the blue polo and when I am not. Being is immediate and influence is over time. As have learned so an SAC member is more than just the meetings John C. Maxwell said, “Leadership is not about manyA things from inter- and events we attend; we influence the whole titles, positions or flowcharts. It is about one acting with hundreds of state and the MIAA itself, by offering ideas life influencing another.” When leadership is student athletes. The pillars of the MIAA have to improve what they do for the students in used people will be influenced because his/ positively affected me as an individual and Massachusetts. her character will change and his/her actions, helped me to become a better leader. Thanks “Footprint” is a funny way to put it because words, and personality will change. This pos- to SAC and the MIAA I have become a leader I am a runner and leave those behind all the itive leadership can lead to a tremendous in- in my school and been able to help so many time, but when it comes to SAC my personal fluence on many lives. others through service and educational athlet- “footprint” has been my passion for making The Student Advisory Committee pushes ics. This committee taught me the importance the student ambassador program grow. When student athletes across the state to lead pow- of leadership and how it is contagious among I first attended NESLC in 2014, that was what erfully and effectively through ambassador other student athletes. This experience has we wanted to rebuild. Watching it take off and huddles, leadership summits, sportsmanship helped me be more outgoing, come out of grow to be so much bigger than we ever expect- summits, and many more opportunities. Plus, my shell and make many new friends from ed when we started has been amazing. From state wide community service projects are cre- across the state. seeing the community service to the number ated and advertised. Last year’s community As a part of the SAC, we have been able to of students involved it is amazing to see more service was called “Gear Up.” The Student Ad- interact with and learn from so many great students than ever involved with the MIAA. visory Committee helps make Massachusetts leaders that influenced and motivated us to If it was not for SAC I would not be the a more connected and giving state. be proactive and get other student athletes person I am today. The experiences I have had My footprint left on the Student Advisory are beyond amazing. At one point I was always Committee has been focused on integrating continued on page 5 4 Building the Future Spring 2017 make my community better. By helping my community and school get better, it has influ- enced others and it has made me grow more as a leader. Since I stepped foot in Student Advisory Committee it was something special, something I’ve never experienced before. It has had a major impact on me personally because being on the committee has taught me ways on improving my leadership skills and has helped me become a better person by touching on many issues and things that I wasn’t aware of, which made me want to help make a change. There are countless things that can be touched upon, but in all, the SAC has definitely made an impact on my life and it has been worth being on the committee.

Will Sargent Members of this year’s Student Advisory Committee meet during the Captains and Coaches workshop held March 17 at the MIAA Office in Franklin. SAC members take responsibility for n my opinion, lead- planning student workshop activities, among many other responsibilities. ership and influence are directly con- continued from page 4 Inected because being a at our schools involved locally. We also were Stephen Jacques leader comes with the given the opportunity to revamp the student Tech Boston Academy responsibility that you will influence those ambassador program and give more opportu- who you are leading. Being a good or bad lead- nities to students in leadership. This enabled us eadership and in- er dictates what kind of influence you have on as a committee to impact our community and fluence is like the others. There is a direct correlation between the spread leadership throughout the state by do- younger brother two. If you lead with a positive attitude, you’ll ing captains workshops, leadership seminars, Llooking up to the older have a positive influence, and likewise with ambassador huddles, and summer camps. We brother. With leader- the negative. If you lead from a standpoint of have been able to spread leadership through- ship you are able to influence others who fol- putting the team over individuals, those who out the state to so many schools and districts. low, making them think about ways they can you are leading will be affected by this kind We have helped many captains, athletes, and become leaders. What makes them connected of leadership and also realize that the team is athletic directors become better leaders in their is when being a leader, influence naturally more important than any individual. respective regions. comes in and that’s what helps make you a My role on the SAC influences others across You cannot find a better leadership oppor- better leader. Being able to make other people the state as I am someone who will not only act tunity than the SAC Committee or better leaders is influence. as a leader in a competitive setting but I’m also instructors than Peter Smith, Rachel Moo, and As I spent more time with the Student Ad- someone who can address issues that student Phil Napolitano. The MIAA Student Advisory visory Committee, my role has become more athletes bring up as well as help implement Committee has been one of the best experienc- clear on how I influence others across the state. ideas of students because of the fact that I es in my life as it changed the way I interact The way I influence students as a SAC member work directly with the MIAA. with my peers, community, and express my is being my district Ambassador. Many others As a member of the SAC I don’t believe my leadership qualities. Thank you again for the look up to me and are eager to give me their footprint is fully complete yet, but I think the opportunity. opinions on how to help make our district, most important aspect of it is to come. I am town, and state better. Being an advocate for working with fellow SAC member Stephen Leadership and influence is like the others who want to make a change makes Jacques to split up into younger brother looking up to the my leadership influence others who want to geographic cohorts with students from each older brother. With leadership you are develop a change. school working directly with students from able to influence others who follow, The footprint that I have left as a SAC mem- schools in and around their area on commu- making them think about ways they ber is from learning the lifelong leadership nity work and attacking common issues within can become leaders. skills on the SAC. I’ve been able to not only their schools. At the moment it is still only help the members of the SAC come up with beginning but we hope to see it grow into —Stephen Jacques plans on things they can do at their schools something special. Tech Boston Academy and in their communities but, I’ve been able The personal impact that I feel the SAC has to take part in my school and district to do something very productive which can help continued on page 10 Building the Future Spring 2017 5 “Faces of Addiction 2017” Opioid Crisis Conference Draws Several Hundred Participants

hen asked to stand if they knew Julie Johnson from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg someone battling an addiction, School of Public Health, Department of Men- nearly all of the 350 people in at- tal Health. Dr. Johnson, an epidemiologist, tendanceW at the March 24 Faces of Addiction spoke about the teen brain, the nature of ad- Conference did, and, with the exception of diction, and stigma associated with addiction only a handful, all remained standing when and treatment. Bill Phillips, President of New asked if they knew someone who died by over- Beginnings Programs, and three young men dose. This visual of the impact that the drug in recovery, Matt, Luke, and Corey shared crisis is having in Massachusetts was compel- their stories. ling and disturbing. The Faces of Addiction series began as an Twelve workshops and two keynote presen- annual workshop attended by 20 people. tations, including topics such as the nature of Last year the workshop drew over 100 which addiction, signs and symptoms of use, support- prompted expanding the offering to a con- ing students returning to school, prevalence in ference format this year according to MIAA communities, law enforcement response, and Wellness Coordinator Karen Nardone. Due to personal recovery stories, were the highlight of the huge response and very positive feedback the conference. Attendees visited twenty-four from this year’s event, MIAA will likely offer interactive exhibits. another conference next year. The morning general session featured Dr.

Rob Hackenson of Dynamic Influence demonstrates the power of influence and leadership and how everyone plays an important role in the ultimate success of a group.

Members of the Blackstone Valley Technical High School R.I.S.E. Above group (Respect Individuality and Self Expression) introduce their organization to conference participants.

Looking Ahead Wellness Summit set for October 27th— save the date and nominate awardees he 21st Annual Wellness Summit, scheduled for October 27, 2017, will be here before you know it! Please mark your calendars and save the date. The Wellness Summit features a keynote presentation, workshop sessions, a resources exhibit area and award presentations celebrating those who exemplify Thealthy life choices. This event sells out each year. The Wellness Summit is an excellent opportunity to pro- mote Wellness in your school by sending a team of adult and student leaders to attend. Topics will include: Substance Abuse Prevention, Healthy Relationships and Teen WELLNESS Sexuality, Team Building and Leadership, Healthy Life Choices, Teen Mental Health, Stress Relief, and Eating Disorders and Nutrition. Watch www.miaa.net for more information and the registration opportunity as the date approaches. The Wellness Summit Planning Committee is currently seeking nominations for: Wellness Coordinator of the Year: Is your school’s Wellness Coordinator a positive role model that goes “above and beyond” in his or her efforts to promote wellness and keep students safe and substance-free? Con- sider nominating that individual for this award. Champions of Wellness Student Award: Are their any individuals or groups at your school who exemplify healthy life choices, and demonstrate leadership by promoting wellness in their school community? Consider nominating them for this award. Links to the nomination forms can be found on the Wellness Page at www.miaa.net Please return your nomination letters before May 5, to Karen Nardone, MIAA Wellness Coordinator, 33 Forge Parkway, Franklin, MA 02038. The 2017 Award recipients will be honored at the Wellness Summit. 6 Building the Future Spring 2017 “Faces of Addiction 2017” Opioid Crisis Conference Draws Several Hundred Participants Wellness news, highlights and previews Third Annual Teen Mental Health Summit

egister your group of student and adult leaders for the 3rd Annual Teen Mental Health Summit. The Summit is scheduled for April 28, from 8:00 am–2:00 pm at the Doubletree Hotel in Westborough, MA. Last year was Ra sell-out crowd, don’t be left out this year! Register at www.miaa.net, click on Conferences, and then on the event (sorted by date). This year’s conference features morning keynote presenter Jessica Minahan speak- ing about reducing anxiety in the classroom. The luncheon keynote presenter Pam Garramone will engage the audience in Laughter Yoga, designed to help reduce stress and increase your sense of well-being and happiness. The Summit also features a re- source exhibit area, and workshops on topics including: Suicide Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention; Teen Depression; Anxiety and Stress Reduction; Trauma and Resilience; Intervention and Postvention Planning; Survivors and Their Stories; Evidence-Based Curricula and Programs. Five professional development hours will be awarded upon completion of an assessment evaluation. Wellness Workshop Series

indfulness and Positivity, May 12, 8:30 am–1:30 pm at the MIAA Con- ference Center, Franklin, MA. Workshop presenters Pam Garramone, Positive Psychology Speaker and Coach, and Debbie Lyn Toomey, Ultimate MHealing Journey, will lead activities to identify character strengths, reduce stress, boost communication, and increase a sense of well-being designed to help participants per- sonally as well as professionally. Workshop fee of $40 includes continental breakfast, lunch and materials. Members of the Blackstone Valley Technical High School R.I.S.E. Above group (Respect Individuality and SBIRT in Schools Implementation Essentials, May 22, 9:00 am–12:00 pm at the Self Expression) introduce their organization to conference participants. MIAA Conference Center. This workshop is designed for school SBIRT Team members who have previously attended SBIRT 1. To register, please contact BUCME Office at (617) 638-4605. There is no fee to attend. Three Professional Hours, CNEs or Social Work CEUs will be awarded following the completion of the workshop. Wellness Summit set for October 27th— So You’re A Leader…Now What?! Leadership 101 save the date and nominate awardees and Beyond he 21st Annual Wellness Summit, scheduled for October 27, 2017, will be here before you know it! egister your group of 2017-2018 Captains, Class and Club Officers, Activity Please mark your calendars and save the date. The Wellness Summit features a keynote presentation, group Leaders and Coaches for the spring So You’re a Leader…Now What?! workshop sessions, a resources exhibit area and award presentations celebrating those who exemplify Leadership 101 and Beyond! Scheduled for May 15 from 8:30-1:30 at the MAIA Thealthy life choices. This event sells out each year. The Wellness Summit is an excellent opportunity to pro- RConference Center, the conference features leadership development, team building, mote Wellness in your school by sending a team of adult and student leaders to attend. Topics will include: problem solving best practices, and action planning. This conference is sold out each Substance Abuse Prevention, Healthy Relationships and Teen year. Register your group early! The fee is $30 per participant. Sexuality, Team Building and Leadership, Healthy Life Choices, Teen Mental Health, Stress Relief, and Eating Disorders and YOU LEAD Nutrition. Watch www.miaa.net for more information and the registration opportunity as the date approaches. June 5, 2017 is the day for middle school club and class officers and their advisors to The Wellness Summit Planning Committee is currently seeking nominations for: join us at the MIAA Conference Center from 8:30 am –1:30 pm for the annual spring Wellness Coordinator of the Year: Is your school’s Wellness Coordinator a positive role model that goes You Lead Conference. Register your group early! The conference features leadership “above and beyond” in his or her efforts to promote wellness and keep students safe and substance-free? Con- skills, substance abuse prevention, role playing, problem solving and action planning. sider nominating that individual for this award. The fee is $30 per participant. Champions of Wellness Student Award: Are their any individuals or groups at your school who exemplify healthy life choices, and demonstrate leadership by promoting wellness in their school community? Consider nominating them for this award. To learn more about the YOU LEAD program or any of the MIAA Wellness offerings, Links to the nomination forms can be found on the Wellness Page at www.miaa.net please contact Karen Nardone, MIAA Wellness Coordinator at 508-541-7997 or by email Please return your nomination letters before May 5, to Karen Nardone, MIAA Wellness Coordinator, 33 at [email protected]. Please visit the Wellness section of the website regularly for updates Forge Parkway, Franklin, MA 02038. at www.miaa.net. The 2017 Award recipients will be honored at the Wellness Summit. Building the Future Spring 2017 7 Winter Ambassadors Huddle TheMassachusetts Interscholastic celebrates Community Service, Athletic Association encourages its member schools to teach Education- ugly holiday sweaters al Athletics through the following ore than 100 MIAA Student Am- at MIAA member schools who are active par- five pillars: bassadors gathered for the Winter ticipants in interscholastic athletics and/or “Huddle” on January 6th. Students school activities, understand the importance Wellness: Mwere asked to bring winter hats/gloves/mittens of academics and educational athletics and are to empower students to make healthy life choices

Sportsmanship: to teach respect for self, team, opponents, officials, rules, and the game itself

Coaches’ Education: to provide resources for teacher-coaches who serve as curriculum instructors of educational athletics

Leadership: to promote the power of The MIAA Student Ambassadors tied in their Winter service project--collecting warm winter accessories for donation. Items were gathered at the Winter Huddle January 6th. At the next positive influence that Huddle, set for May 5th, Ambassadors will bring gently used sports equipment for donation. student athletes and teacher-coaches share as for donation and to wear their favorite “ugly committed to the areas of athletics, wellness, role models sweater.” The event tied in with the Martin Lu- sportsmanship, community service, and stu- dent leadership Community Service: COMMUNITY SERVICE For more information on the program, or to reg- to recognize the privilege of ther King “Day of Service” that month. More ister students, please visit the Leadership page athletic participation and than 250 items were collected and donated at www.miaa.net. the responsibility of giving to St. John’s Parish in Worcester. Ambassador back to the community Morgan McCarty of Uxbridge High School was one of the volunteers helping on distri- bution day at the parish. The Student Ambassadors’ next Huddle is set for May 5th at the MIAA Office, with the Building the Future is the Educa- theme “Let’s Play it Forward.” The “Ambas- tional Athletics newsletter of the sador Challenge” for the Spring Huddle is to Massachusetts Interscholastic Ath- collect new or gently used sports equipment letic Association. It is published four to be distributed to youth sports programs in times per year. need of equipment. Ambassadors are asked to wear their own school-branded apparel that day to show school spirit. Editorial Staff: The MIAA Student Ambassador program Peter Smith offers student-athletes the opportunity to be- MIAA Associate Director come involved and educated in the Association Morgan McCarty volunteered at St. John’s structure, and to gain experience and leader- Parish, Worcester, to distribute the winter Linda Taylor ship under the Leadership and Community accessories collected and donated by MIAA MIAA Support Staff Service pillars of the Educational Athletics Student Ambassadors. Curriculum. It is open to juniors and seniors 8 Building the Future Spring 2017 Sportsmanship Summit draws more than 1,000 student and adult leaders he MIAA Sportsmanship Summit, tant Director, and several awards presenta- held annually in November, cele- tions (see box below for awardees), student brates Sportsmanship in general and groups were offered various breakout sessions. Trecognizes individual acts of Sportsmanship Presentations included “Beyond the Game,” at member schools. The 23rd Annual Sports- by Aaron Polansky of Authentricity; “Mental manship Summit, held November 23, 2016, Toughness,” by Charlie Sullivan, Professor of Physical Education and Men’s Volleyball Coach at Springfield College, and “Creat- SPORTSMANSHIP ing a Positive School Climate,” by Deb and Dana Hult of Core TrainingsTM. Members at Gillette Stadium, drew more than 1,000 of the MIAA Student Advisory Committee student and adult leaders. (SAC) assisted at all three breakout sessions. Joanne Njihia of Lowell High School sang The adult leaders attended a presentation by the national anthem to open the event. After Jon Gordon, best-selling author and keynote greetings from Phil Vaccaro, MIAA Assis- speaker, on “The Power of Positive Leadership.”

Aaron Polansky, superintendent at Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School and founder and speaker with Authentricity, brought his message “Beyond the Game,” to the student breakout sessions at the MIAA Sportsmanship Summit 2016.

When the summit reconvened in a general session, two additional service awards were conferred, and Gordon addressed the whole group with “Training Camp: The Keys to Be- Representatives from Saint Joseph Preparatory School accept their District H Sportsmanship ing Your Best,” which drew principals and Award at the 23rd Annual Sportsmanship Summit November 23, 2016, at Gillette Stadium. strategies from his book, Training Camp: What the Best Do Better than Everyone Else. The day concluded with a buffet lunch.

Sportsmanship Awards 2016

Essay Contest William N. Gaine, Jr. Sportsmanship Award First Place: Erin Claflin, Brian Cogswell, Assistant Principal, Lenox Memorial High School Runner-Up: Elizabeth Wilson, Ron Burton Community Service Award Multimedia Contest Pete Frates, ALS Ice Bucket Challenge Founder First Place: Katerina Hassapis, North Reading High School Runner-Up: Girls Volleyball Team, Lynnfield High School Sportsmanship Moment of the Year Award Abbey D’Agostino, 2016 Olympian/Masconomet Regional High School Battle of the Fans 2015-16 Softball Team, Monomoy Regional High School MIAA District Athletic Sportsmanship Awards District A: Boston Latin School District E: Narragansett Regional High School District B: District F: District C: Taunton High School District G: Mt. Greylock Regional High School District D: District H: Saint Joseph Preparatory School

Building the Future Spring 2017 9 Student Advisory Committee reflections, continued from page 5 Over 300 female student athletes had on me is that I feel it has truly opened my honored at GWS Day 2017 eyes as to the difference that even one person could make towards positive change anywhere. ore than 300 female student-ath- heard greetings from Ann Trytko, MIAA Before joining the committee, some of the letes were honored at the Mas- Assistant Director; MIAA Student Adviso- things that I have seen done by high school- sachusetts Celebration of Girls ry Committee members Mikayla Porcaro, ers in Massachusetts I would have thought Mand Women in Sports Day at Faneuil Hall, , Lindsey Giorgi, to never have been possible on such a small Boston, on February 3, 2017. The day’s key- Quabbin Regional High School, and Katelyn starting point. I now know that anyone can note speaker was Genevra (Gevvie) Stone, the Pickunka, Hampshire Regional High School; accomplish their goals no matter what the 2016 U.S. Silver Medalist in the Women’s Marcia Crooks of the New Agenda: North- scenario as long as they are committed. That’s Single Sculls at the Rio Olympics. east, and Patty Doherty of Special Olympics why I said #MyReasonWhy was passion for Maddie Lane of Lexington High School Massachusetts. achieving my goals because the SAC allowed sang the national anthem, and the assembly In addition to the keynote address, and me to see how rewarding it is to set goals for the conferring of certificates on the honored yourself and see yourself meet them through athletes, GWS Day 2017 recognized the fol- hard work and commitment. lowing individuals: The Massachusetts Women in Athletics Lindsey Giorgi Distinguished Service Award was conferred Quabbin Regional upon: Pamela Alvares, Teacher of Physical High School Education, Health, Biology and Business, Bristol County Agricultural High School here is such a (Dighton); Bobbie Finn, Athletics Admin- great impact istrative Assistant, Notre Dame Academy on others when (Hingham); Eleanor E. Petrovick, Wellness Tsomeone has strong Teacher, Foxborough High School, and Lin- leadership qualities. da Zacchilli, Head Girls Volleyball Coach This great impact is an influence. Leadership and Assistant Boys Volleyball Coach, Milford and influence, in my opinion, really do go High School. hand in hand. If a certain person is a very good The winners of the 2017 GWS Essay leader then, more than likely, they are creating Contest were: First Place, Emily O’Neill, a positive influence on others. It also works Cardinal Spellman High School (Brockton); the other way such that if a person has poor Second Place, Katherine Arsenault, Oak- leadership qualities, they will ultimately end mont Regional High School (Ashburnham), up being a bad influence on another person. Genevra Stone, 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist and Third Place, Mia McDonald, Westfield I believe that my role on the SAC is to im- (Single Sculls) and Boston resident, was the High School. Emily read her first-place essay prove my own positive leadership qualities keynote speaker at GWS Day 2017. as part of the ceremony. as well as help others become better leaders. I hope that this role can influence other stu- workshop for middle school students in my done or encouraged others to take part in. The dents across Massachusetts to want to first of school in hopes to better the school commu- captains workshops were my favorite because all, improve their own skills of leadership. I nity in the future. Being a member of the it is immediate proof that I helped someone also hope that many of them can find new SAC made this possible and I believe that the expand their skill set in leadership areas. By ways to be better leaders. And finally, I want workshops will continue year to year so this the end of the workshops, it was easy to see them to encourage others to work on their is the footprint I have left on my community how many were participating more than the leadership skills as well. I want my leadership as a member of the SAC. beginning, being innovative, getting others and my role on the SAC to overall end up Being a member of the SAC has truly im- involved, and thinking of new ideas to help influencing others in the state to be the best pacted me in so many ways. The first thing their communities. All of these things I con- leaders they can be. I think of are all the amazing experiences I sider to be qualities of great leaders so it was Being a member of the SAC, I was given went through as a result of being a part of so rewarding to see so many people develop many opportunities that I was not given before this committee. These experiences, including these skills. being a member. I was offered new ideas to attending various community service projects, Students who attend the New England Student create positive things in my community and large summit events, and captain leadership Leadership Conference during the summer are eligible offered the support for whenever I had an idea. workshops, have all left me with so many pos- to serve on the MIAA Student Advisory Committee for I heard of the idea to create the same opportu- itive memories that I never would have got the 2017-18 school year. Following the conference, nities I was given to learn about leadership for the chance to be involved with if it were not an application and interview process will take place younger student athletes. With this, I worked for being a member of the Student Advisory in August to select next year’s representatives. For with my athletic director to create a leadership Committee. I got so much personal satisfac- additional information, please contact the MIAA Ed- tion from all of the community service we have ucational Athletics Staff. 10 Building the Future Spring 2017 Building the Future Spring 2017 11 Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association 33 Forge Parkway Franklin, MA 02038

Upcoming Events All events are at the MIAA Office unless otherwise indicated.

April 28, 2017 May 15, 2017 Teen Mental Health Conference So You’re a Leader @ the DoubleTree Hotel, Westborough, MA 8:30am–1:30pm 8:00am–2:00pm May 1, 2017 May 19, 2017 Leadership for Young Men Inclusion Symposium 8:30am–1:00pm 8:30am–12:30pm May 11, 2017 Reading Between the Lines: Implicit Bias May 25, 2017 in Our Schools MIAA Awards Recognition Banquet July 25, 2017 8:30am–2:00pm @ the DoubleTree Hotel, Milford, MA MIAA Rules Clinic - Orientation/ Induction Workshop for Principals & ADs May 12, 2017 June 5, 2017 @ the Resort and Conference Center, Hyannis Mindfulness and Positivity You Lead Conference 8:30am–1:30pm 8:30am–1:30pm 12:00pm–5:00pm May 12, 2017 June 7, 2017 13th Annual New and Aspiring Athletic MIAA Athletic Department Directors’ Workshop Administrative Assistants’ Conference 8:00am–3:00pm 8:30am–3:00pm

Visit www.miaa.net/miaa/conferences for a complete listing of events.

12 Building the Future Spring 2017