Focus on Game Lifelong Bonds Generations Officials celebrate Another benefit together Sportsmanship of sports Summit features participation GWS Day 2020 panel p. 7 p. 9 p. 12 Building the Future the newsletter of MIAA Educational Athletics

Summer 2020 MIAA/MSAA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Summit held at Framingham State he Massachusetts Interscholastic and cultural competency and mental goals that we established at the Athletic Association (MIAA) health disparities. Mike Rubin, MIAA / start of this inclusion mission were Tand the Massachusetts School MSAA Assistant Director said, “Two to promote diversity and encourage Administrators’ participation, interaction Association (MSAA) held and understanding in its third annual Diversity, our increasingly diverse Equity and Inclusion (DEI) society.” Summit at Framingham Summit presenters State University on included members of Monday, January 13, the MIAA/MSAA DEI 2020. With over 240 Committee, which consists attendees representing of school administrators, 65 schools, the 2020 supporting agencies, Summit featured eight and representatives concurrent workshops from higher education covering subjects institutions, as well as including: impact of race individuals from the MIAA on daily life, para-sports, Partners in Prevention, inclusive strategies, a powerful collaborative Unified Champion schools, of public and private Leadership and content providers for this year’s Diversity, Equity and working to undo bias Inclusion Summit included, from left, Joseph Walsh, President, Adaptive prevention agencies. and end hate, creating Sports New England; Dr. Dwayne Thomas, Associate Professor of Sports The Committee and the safe and supportive Management, Lasell University; Mike Rubin, MIAA/MSAA Assistant Director; Collaborative provide Dr. F. Javier Cevallos, President, Framingham State University; Yvonne M. schools, making Spicer, Mayor of Framingham, Muji Karim, Paralympian; Dr. Carroll Blake, extensive support, authentic connections, Blake Associates, and Kathleen McSweeney, MIAA Assistant Director. resources and expertise in

Educational Athletics Briefs continued on page 2 Online Fundamentals of Coaching Clinic – class is now being offered through pilot programs over mandatory. Courses will be July 14/16 virtually. The Association staff the past month to develop offered on July 14 and 16, worked with coaches from this online format. The online and August 11 and 13 from and August 11/13 Braintree HS, Narragansett course will be offered in 9:00-11:00am each day. To The MIAA is happy to Reg. HS, Roxbury Preparatory a two-day format (2 hours register, please visit http:// announce that the NFHS Charter School and Salem each day) and attendance miaa.net/miaa/conferences. Fundamentals of Coaching Academy Charter School on both days of the course is continued on page 2 NFHS National MIAA/MSAA host Diversity, Equity Student Leadership and Inclusion Summit 2020 Summit – July 20-22, continued from page 1 Associations share DEI resources 2020 totality of Inclusion!” the delivery of insight and programmatic Summit attendees included Student This first ever online initiatives leading to cultural Leaders, Group Leaders, Coaches, A statement on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion student leadership competencies to the membership. At the Teachers, Team Captains, Counselors initiative offered by the completion of the workshops, attendees and Administrators. from MIAA/MSAA Executive Director NFHS will be conducted created school action plans, “To Know Attendees were prompted to answer in July. The program is a is to Understand -- Plan For Action” some questions as part of their William N. Gaine, Jr. unique opportunity for focusing on workshop take-aways such evaluations for the day. Questions students to hone their as, “become aware of our own privileges included what they were thinking and leadership skills and and understand the many ‘-isms’ that feeling, and what one step they would Dear MSAA and MIAA Colleagues, realize the privilege and take after leaving the summit. power of their influence in Here are few ideas they We write this letter to pledge to you, our membership, that MSAA and the MIAA stand together, and are united their school, community had for “next steps” back at in our condemnation of the recent killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor. We condemn the and state. The program school: unlawful violence and looting. We condemn any unlawful violence and unlawful police violence perpetrated on is open to high school • I will be compassionate. people of color. We condemn the unlawful violence towards peaceful protestors. students across the • I will say “hi” more. country who are involved • I will provide random acts We laud the families of the victims who are calling for calm coupled with action. We laud the peaceful protestors in athletics and activities. of kindness and compliments who are willing to put their lives on the line to have their voices heard. We laud the religious leaders who call for The program is being to strangers instead of just my us to confront 401 years of systemic racism and injustice and to examine our own beliefs. And finally, we laud the offered free of charge and friends. courage of the free press who risk their lives to bring us the truth as deeply painful as it is. the registration deadline is • I will bring more positivity July 3, 2020. For additional to my school, and show by To that end, we are committed to addressing these issues in an ongoing, enduring, purposeful, and determined information please visit example. manner. In order to do this, we will utilize structures already in place specifically the joint MSAA/MIAA Diversity www.nfhs.org. • I will think more carefully Equity Inclusion Committee (DEIC) whose mission is, “To foster diversity among member schools, athletic about being critical of myself administrators, coaches and student-athletes by promoting inclusiveness, awareness, and acceptance. The focus is NFHS Learning and others. to celebrate all differences by creating an association that is welcoming and engaging for all.” Center – Free courses • I will look more critically available DEI Summit 2020 attendees chat before a session. at where bias and racism are Our work in affirming the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion is foundational, intentional, and is ongoing. We present, so I can challenge it. will continue to develop meaningful and deep professional learning opportunities, while enhancing a long-term The NFHS Learning exist,” “accept yourself before accepting • I will be more aware of my own bias professional development plan for both organizations; we will partner together to accomplish this. We will dedicate Center at NFHSLearn. others,” and “have the discussions and look for resources to continue my ourselves to providing you with relevant, timely resources to use in your schools and districts and have created a com contains many that matter, even if they make you education around this. resource page on our websites to facilitate sharing them. free online courses for uncomfortable.” Rubin stated, “The For a video of highlights from the students, coaches, officials, recent DEI Summit was an exemplary 2020 DEI Summit visit https://vimeo. CLICK HERE to access the resources page. administrators, parents blueprint for what the Committee is com/402272918 and more. Topics for these trying to accomplish.” We understand that true change takes time and persistence. We will remain steadfast in the pursuit of justice courses include: The Summit provided two keynote and equity for all. We guarantee that we will diligently and tirelessly examine our actions and our programs to • Appearance and speakers, Muji Karim, a Paralympic promote equity and justice for all. We also recognize this will not be easy, but then again, no real accomplishment Performance Enhancing Track and Field Athlete, and Briana is ever achieved with ease. And finally, we welcome and value the input of our respective memberships and are Drugs and Substances Mastel, a member of Boston Pride of committed to traveling this long and challenging road together with you. We owe this to the students whom we • Bullying, Hazing and the National Women’s Hockey League. serve. Inappropriate Behaviors Mr. Karim’s message to “see the silver • Concussion in Sports lining” when dealing with obstacles Respectfully, • Positive Sport Parenting and Ms. Mastel’s encouragement to • Protecting Students be a “strong link” and “to help others” from Abuse are in alignment with the MIAA/MSAA • Social Media inclusion message. In addition, Javier • Sports Nutrition Cevallos, President of Framingham • Student Mental Health State University, and Yvonne Spicer, and Suicide Prevention Mayor of Framingham, addressed the • Understanding Vaping attendees with a warm welcome to William N, Gaine Jr. and E-Cigarettes the City of Framingham. Rubin stated, Briana Mastel, player for Boston Pride MSAA/MIAA Executive Director “The two keynote speakers and eight National Women’s Hockey League Team and a member of the nonprofit Positive amazing presenters shared information, Coaching Alliance, gave one of the two celebrated differences, and engaged keynote addresses at the MIAA/MSAA DEI attendees to think critically about the Summit 2020. 2 Building the Future Summer 2020 Building the Future Summer 2020 3 Remembering longtime women in sports advocate Leadership Training Institute and Massachusetts sports legend Mary Pratt 2020 graduates 24 any in the Massachusetts enthusiasm and passion to the work of athletic community and beyond Educational Athletics. She was always IAA’s Leadership Training Institute (LTI), a multi-day student-athletes/activity participants and school activity staff Mwere saddened to learn of the first and foremost concerned about ‘the annual initiative, was held January 27-29, 2020 at the members. death of Mary Pratt, former player in the kiddoes.’” MMIAA Offices and the Residence Inn, Franklin, with 24 • Identify resources for future efforts to reduce tobacco, All-American Girl Professional Baseball Her legacy to the Association and to participants. Kevin Ringhofer and Marty Harding once again alcohol, and other drug use problems and to promote positive League (1943-1947) and longtime the community may be summed up by facilitated the training session. sportsmanship. local advocate of sports in general and the dedication at the front of her book, MIAA offers this event yearly with the purpose of; • Implement the “Pillars” of Educational Athletics at the women’s participation in particular. offered by the MIAA Women in Athletics • training participants to take advantage of opportunities local level. Pratt died at the John Scott nursing Committee: within athletics and school activities to prevent tobacco, Graduates of LTI 2020 are: home in Braintree, Massachusetts on We could say many things about alcohol, and other drug use problems Ricky Andrade, Educational Athletics Staff, MIAA May 6, 2020, aged 101. She was the Mary Pratt and how she has served • promoting positive sportsmanship Thomas Angelo, Athletic Director, Franklin High School last surviving member of the original the female athletes of Massachusetts • implementing student leadership initiatives Eric Archambault, Young Athletes and Early Education Rockford Peaches. through her service as teacher, coach, • encouraging community service opportunities Program Manager, Special Olympics Massachusetts and official. We could list the ways Mary Pratt poses with a ball at MIAA GWS • assisting in the development of students’ social and Greg Bluestein, Football Coach, Everett High School she has served the Massachusetts Day 2004 at Faneuil Hall, Boston. Pratt emotional competencies Daniel Brooks, Director of Educational Services, South Interscholastic Athletic Association: delighted GWS Day audiences for many Workshop participants learn practical strategies for involving Carolina High School League committee member, panelist, keynote years with stories and songs from her days school activity staff members and health educators; student Keith Brouillard, Assistant Director, MIAA speaker, etc. We could listen for hours to with the AAGPBL. activity participants; and parents and caregivers in these Sue Cauley, Educational Athletics Staff, MIAA the stories (and songs) about her days the struggles of those who went before. efforts. Many of the skills and strategies can be applied in Dan Curran, Athletic Director, Cristo Rey Boston in the All-American Girls Professional It is not a level playing field today, but situations to help students learn important character values Joe Desjardins, Assistant Athletic Director, Austin Baseball League. But the real gift Mary it is much more level thanks to Title IX and life lessons through an Educational Athletics curriculum. Preparatory School brings is her enthusiastic, infectious love and the work of those who, like Mary, As a result of participating in Leadership Training, Liane Dixon, Athletic Director, Boston Collegiate Charter of competition. persevered in spite of obstacles. participants will be able to: School Mary loved competition before it was The MIAA offers this copy of Mary’s • Identify the role of school activities in reducing tobacco, Kelly Flynn, Assistant Principal, Weston Public Schools considered a virtue for women to be book in the hopes that student athletes alcohol, and other drug use problems and in promoting Melissa Gramuglia, PE/Health Teacher and Coach, Jabish on fire about competitive sports. She throughout the Commonwealth will read positive sportsmanship Brook Middle School and Belchertown High School forged ahead anyway. She helped pave it, absorb a bit of Mary’s spirit, and ask: • Promote training events for coaches and other school Ginnie Hakes, Vice Principal, South Lancaster Academy the path that younger women now tread “What can I do to preserve the legacy?” activity staff members. Bruce Hastings, Assistant Principal, Michael. E. Smith as they pursue athletics in high school, and “When’s the next game?” • Develop and support leadership initiatives for high school Middle School college and professional settings. Her student-athletes/activity participants and their adult leaders. Danielle Jacques, Athletic Director, Hampden Charter book, Preserving Our Legacy, not only MIAA has copies of the book available • Plan and conduct pre-season meetings for parents, continued on page 8 entertains with stories and photos for $10 each (including shipping). If you from her lively career--it also, we hope, are interested in purchasing, please challenges young women to think about contact Linda Taylor at [email protected]. In 2008, the MIAA Women in Athletics Committee offered copies of Mary’s self-published book, Preserving Our Legacy – A Peach of a Game, as part of the Massachusetts Celebration of Girls Upcoming Coaches’ Education Classes: and Women in Sports (GWS) Day. As a member of the co-sponsoring agency, The MIAA is happy to announce that the Coaches’ Education course, The New Agenda: Northeast, Mary was an Fundamentals of Coaching is now being offered virtually. This VIRTUAL clinic is integral part of the annual event for required for all coaches (stipend or volunteer) prior to coaching a second year or many years; the event usually concluded anyone interested or already coaching. The online clinic is offered as a two-part with Mary leading the assembled workshop set as two different dates for two hours each time. student-athletes in singing the Rockford Peaches bus song. There are two clinics planned for this summer: Mary Pratt served the MIAA with her longstanding assignment to the Game Tuesday, July 14 and Thursday, July 16 Officials Committee as well. both days from 9:00 am to 11:00am “The Association was so fortunate Tuesday, August 11 and Thursday, August 13 to have Mary as part of it for so many both days from 9:00 am to 11:00am years,” said Sherry Bryant, MIAA MIAA Leadership Training Institute 2020 Participants Associate Director and Coordinator of Please check the MIAA website for these dates and to register. GWS Day. “She brought endless energy, 4 Building the Future Summer 2020 Building the Future Summer 2020 5

Making Mental and Physical Health Discussions Coaches’ Education INTERsections The Massachusetts Interscho- Equally Important lastic Athletic Association Leadership encourages its member schools Sportsmanship to teach Educational Athletics from McLean Hospital time to the equally important message consequences are heavy or the cure is through the following five pillars: of mental health. unknown. By providing resources about Community Service McLean Hospital is a member of Many states have incorporated not only mental health disorders but also Wellness: Partners in Prevention and the Official curriculum and training to manage how to build resiliency and the evidence- constituents re ect Mental Health Care Partner of the school shootings and, while it is based ways in which disorders are on the many intersecting facets to empower students to MIAA, and provides speakers at various incredibly important to discuss and successfully treated, we can increase a Wellness make healthy life choices MIAA Wellness events throughout the educate kids to avoid mass tragedies, parent’s or school’s capacity to provide of MIAA educational athletics year. adolescents and young adults are support and guidance for mental health. Sportsmanship: more than 350 times more likely to 2. Stigma Sports form bonds ost parents have similar wishes die by suicide during their teenage or Mental health may be one of the to teach respect for self, for their kids long before the young adult years than through school that go beyond the game team, opponents, officials, first diaper is changed. While violence. This, of course, is not an rules, and the game itself M MIAA offers two reflections from students for Intersections this edition. Sofia parents often have preferences for exercise in comparing or prioritizing gender, shared values or occupation, education around tragedy, but rather Roumiantsev shares thoughts on human bonding over sports and Colleen Coaches’ Education: the overwhelming quality that parents a call to action to treat public health McNamara ponders the meaning of losing the Spring 2020 high school sports wish upon their kids is health. I just epidemics affecting adolescents and season. to provide resources for want my child to be healthy. And while young adults with equal response as teacher-coaches who the methods that parents leverage to we do not have a unified mental health by Sofia Roumiantsev serve as curriculum achieve that goal vary, we spend quite curriculum that discusses depression or most stigmatized disorders we have Algonquin High School Senior; Staff Writer the Harbinger, Algonquin’s Student instructors of educational a bit of time trying to help our children suicide in the United States. in modern medicine. Think about how Newspaper; Special Olympics Swimmer and Skier, Unified Basketball and Track & athletics There are certainly strong ties frequently we use a diagnosis, behaviors Field athlete (Captain) between physical and mental health. or a shortened form of a diagnosis When we are in poor physical health to fully describe a patient. Addict. ports may not be for everyone, but for some, they can be a source of great Leadership: due to lack of self care, exercise Depressed. Borderline. Cutter. When we enjoyment. Playing sports can help one’s physical development as well as to promote the power of or illness, our capacity to manage think of traditional medicine, we would Stheir education. Sports are an excellent opportunity to keep the body in good positive influence that the mental health side of our lives NEVER label patients as ‘an insuliner’ condition as well as building a close bond with one’s partner or teammates. student athletes and becomes instantly more challenging. or ‘melanoma-ey’. This is a place where For example, my parents go running every morning together, which helps them And in the same way that physical mental health providers have not helped to build a closer bond. Most people think that playing sports is just a game, but in teacher-coaches share as health necessitates effort, our mental the people they serve. The medical reality, it’s a way to bond with family. role models health involves prioritizing eliminating community describes their patients as I have been doing sports all my life stress, attending to relationships, just that. A person seeking treatment for because I am surrounded by an athletic Community Service: finding our capacity to generate joy and leukemia is not a “cancer client” nor is family. For example, both of my parents to recognize the privilege incorporating activities that provide a transplant patient a “client receiving a run, both of my siblings swim and my satisfaction and meaning. new heart.” They are patients because sister also plays rugby. I am on both the of athletic participation So how can parents and schools of their pathology and their willingness Special Olympics swim and ski teams, as and the responsibility prioritize mental health at home and in and strength to engage in treatment well as the unified track and basketball of giving back to the the classroom? Here are 5 integral ways which is celebrated by their status as a teams. I am also involved in local sports community identify strategies that will elicit health. that can help parents, communities and patient receiving care for their pathology, such as Southborough Recreation Eat well, exercise, take care of your body schools place emotional health on the just as we should celebrate with mental soccer in the Southborough community. Building the Future is the Edu- are often parent mantras to ensure same important platform with which we health. Playing and participating in sports cational Athletics newsletter of that our kids not only achieve health place physical health. 3. In case of emergency…… is a great way to make life-long friends the Massachusetts Interscho- When we think of caring and meet new people. One of my lastic Athletic Association. It is for our kids, the one thing friends that I have met playing sports published three times per year, we want is for them to is junior Kate McNeil. We both like the and is available online at know what to do in an same music. Kate and I both play in the www.miaa.net. while they are young, but learn similar 1. Education emergency. We teach our kids how to same lead position in basketball: point principles when parents are not the Plain and simple, education is one dial 9-1-1, what to do and who to trust guard. During the basketball games, we Editorial Staff: primary influences in high school and of the quickest, least expensive and if they get lost, that they can talk to us photo courtesy encourage each other with a loud cheer. Peter Smith Jonny Ratner beyond. As the important emphasis on most productive ways to help people no matter what is going on. But what I am also an avid sports watcher MIAA Associate Director physical health and education continues feel more comfortable with topics that do we do when our kids are struggling Sofia Roumiantsev dribbles the ball in a of professional sports like basketball, Unified Basketball game on Oct. 22. In her at school, where state curriculum and they may not understand. When we with a mental health related difficulty? opinion, Roumiantsev asserts sports have football and hockey. I like these sports Linda Taylor designated classes help teach and guide look at disorders, typically, the less How can we help our kids know where not only helped her physically, but they because all the players are united and MIAA Support Staff principles of caring for our bodies, it can we understand the scarier we find it. have also helped her develop bonds with seem more daunting to give similar play This is particularly evident when the continued on page 8 her peers. continued on page 20 6 Building the Future Summer 2020 Building the Future Summer 2020 7 Leadership Training Institute offers tools for implementing Educational Athletics in schools Female Senior Olympians shine continued from page 4 Mike McGrath, Athletic Director, the MIAA to make this change to a three- School of Science West Weston Public Schools day format to allow people to attend the at GWS Day 2020 Amy Kelly, Director of District Michael McKeon, Teacher/Coach, Leadership Training Institute. Even with Advancement, Weston Public Schools Millbury Public Schools the shorter amount of time, we were Sean McDonagh, Assistant Athletic Tara Noyes, Assistant Principal, able to maintain the interactive format, his year’s Massachusetts The program featured a keynote She cherished her college experience, Director, Archbishop Williams High Cohasset High School which many LTI participants over the Celebration of Girls and Women speech by Elaine “Laney” Clement- where her coaches encouraged School Michael O’Brien, Athletic Director, years highlight as one of the things they Tin Sports (GWS) honored several Holbrook, Head Girls Basketball Coach competitive play. “We played hard. We Diman Regional High School like most about the training. This year’s generations of women participating at Oliver Ames. Laney is the “winningest” fought and we battled and not once were Terri Pillsbury, Athletic Director, participants echoed such comments.” in competitive sports. Joining the coach in Massachusetts and was we told, ‘No--it’s because you are a girl.’” Saugus High School Graduate Terri Pillsbury said,”The LTI more than 300 student-athletes chosen to coach the 2017 McDonald’s As she moved into her own coaching Jeff Shanahan, Athletic Director, program was a fantastic experience that being honored were more than 20 All-American Team. Collegiate Charter School of Lowell gave each of us a chance to essentially Senior Olympians--women connected Coach Clement- Mathew Zajac, Coordinator of unplug from our districts for three days to Massachusetts who medaled in Holbrook was Special Education/Coach, Madison Park and completely immerse ourselves the 2019 Senior Olympic Games in introduced by her Technical Vocational High School in a hands-on learning environment. Albuquerque, NM. The gathering took friend, Bridgett “This year, for the first time in more The interactive, thought-provoking and place at the historic Great Hall at Faneuil Casey, Women’s than 30 years, we switched to a three- challenging exercises that we went Hall, Boston, on February 7, 2020. Basketball Head day format,” Facilitator Marty Harding through as a group each day left us a Coordinating and introducing the Coach, Bridgewater said. “Many of our participants said bit mentally drained, but enriched and Senior Olympians was Sheila McKenna, State University. that the three-day option gave them the eager to take on the tasks of the next a senior basketball player from Attleboro, She began her ability to finally attend this training; five session. The camaraderie and teamwork advocate of women in athletics, address by asking days was too difficult given their school that evolved out of our group was and member of the GWS Planning people to stand for responsibilities.” tremendous. It is a powerful experience Committee. The salute to the senior various questions, Longtime Leadership Training Institute Kevin Ringhofer supported her when a group of like minded individuals athletes was part of the day’s program, such as “If you are Facilitators Marty Harding and Kevin thoughts. “We appreciated working with come together in a leadership forum which was a joint venture of MIAA and or have a family Ringhofer. Massachusetts female Senior Olympics medalists from the 2019 such as this. It was truly a fulfilling the New Agenda: Northeast. The senior member who is a National Games gather on stage at GWS Day 2020 to be saluted by personal and professional learning athletes were warmly welcomed by the woman over 60 who high school female student-athletes and their guests. Equalizing mental and physical health opportunity for me. I would encourage student-athletes as they stepped to the played competitive continued from page 6 anyone to take advantage of it and see stage to receive recognition for their sports, please stand up.” When only career, Laney and her colleagues still to turn when they are in need to talk communication becoming more for themselves what it has to offer.” medals. a few stood up, she proceeded to go found inequities, but they pushed for-- to someone that may not be at home prevalent than ever (and potentially Graduate Thomas Angelo offered,“The down through the ages, demonstrating and got--improvements such as longer or at school? Suicide hotlines such as more problematic), finding ways to LTI Program was one of the most that Title IX has opened participation practice times and nighttime games. The Samaritans provide 24 hour free, connect, particularly to an actual living rewarding professional development in competitive sports to a wide swath In closing she laid out her principals confidential support that should be a human being is more integral for mental experiences I have had in my 36 years of girls and women. “We have what we for her audience, saying, “If you truly resource that can be made available health. as an educator. This program allows have because of someone who came embody these principals, you will reap in every school as part of a mental 5. Starting a conversation like-minded professionals an opportunity before us,” she said. the benefits in every aspect as you live health curriculum and as an additional This can be one of the most difficult to immerse themselves in a three-day Laney described an early life steeped out your dream to become the best you resource for teens and young adults to things to do and one of the primary program, that focuses on leadership in sports, with a father who was a can be, and they will empower you in the access. We know that the large majority reasons that schools and parents will and the administrator’s role in the ever- sportswriter and coach and an uncle best and worst of life’s moments.” Her of folks that attempt suicide reach out wait until tomorrow what should be changing and complex world of high who was the announcer for the Boston principals: Make your moments matter; to someone in the hours prior to an discussed today. Click here to access a school athletics.” Bruins. She routinely practiced sports be prepared; “for the good of the group,” attempt and having information about very gentle, factual infographic to help A few comments from LTI evaluations: and pay forward. She what to do when things feel particularly start the conversation about mental • Great facilitators, thanks so illustrated each with life threatening can be the difference. health. The best outcome that can come much for creating a safe, fun, and pointed, humorous or 4. Connectedness from an initial conversation is having extremely useful program, With not poignant anecdotes. When we think of mental health, a second conversation. Any parent much experience in the industry yet, this with her brothers and was puzzled The day also included: we often think of it in terms of who has seen their child struggle with program was perfect for me! when she was told she couldn’t actually • The singing of the national anthem disorders. However, one of the most mental health has certainly experienced • I thought the trainers were fabulous compete, “because you are a girl.” She by Lorelei Marcel, Lexington High School debilitating and high risk states that the scariest moments are times when and engaging. They created a fun, safe was successful in sports at Dedham Class of 2021. anyone can experience is loneliness. conversations don’t happen, not when atmosphere. High School and Bridgewater State, but • Greetings from Advocates of Feeling connected is part of our DNA they do. By finding ways to make it an • Thank you for a great week! Elaine “Laney” Clement-Holbrook, Head felt limited by the rules applied only to Women in Sports: Naomi Martin, Girls Basketball Coach at Oliver Ames as humans. It has particularly huge ongoing conversation, we can treat Everything was well organized and High School (North Easton), concludes female sports, such as uniforms of skirts Athletic Director at Lexington High consequences for preteens and mental health in the same way we flowed smoothly. I’m leaving here with a her keynote address at GWS Day 2020 at and bloomers, shorter practice sessions, School and Member of the MIAA Board adolescents in terms of social and treat physical health in our homes and lot of great and new information. Faneuil Hall, Boston, February 7th. Her and games played in the afternoons of Directors; Leda Levine, President, inspiring speech offered some basic life emotional health. With the advent of schools. principals illustrated by pointed, amusing when parents couldn’t attend. social media, texting and non-human and poignant anecdotes. continued on page 10 8 Building the Future Summer 2020 Building the Future Summer 2020 9 Captains, coaches hone leadership skills 2019-20 Student Advisory Committee members at seasonal workshops at MIAA reflect on their time of service to MIAA he seasonal MIAA High School representing their schools, communities, and Former Head Basketball Coach at IAA Student Advisory Committee members were asked multiple perspectives on race, gender, health, wellness, Captains and Coaches Workshops and sports and activities participated Eastern Connecticut State University and to reflect on their experiences during their year(s) and sexuality through the summits SAC attends and I Ttook place on December 6, 2019 in. Following the icebreaker activity, focused on “The Role of the High School Mof service on the committee. The SAC “Footprint” or am constantly making connections with other students and March 6, 2020. These workshops each program began with a welcome Captain.” Dr. Switchenko discussed major initiative to “take back to schools” for 2019-2020 was throughout the state. We have been given the opportunity are conducted near the beginning of and overview of the day by MIAA essential characteristics to have an to create Student Advisory Committees at the school level. to implement change, not only in our high schools, but each sports season and are hosted staff members Peter Smith and Phil impact as a team leader. SAC members were asked to describe their SAC experience throughout MIAA member schools, in ways that a younger at the MIAA Office in Franklin, MA. A Napolitano. Students were encouraged The second session of the day was and prompted to reflect on the SAC “Footprint,” new skills they version of myself would not be able to believe. I will never variety of sessions are offered during to make the most of the opportunities facilitated by members of the MIAA have acquired, and how SAC has influenced them and their forget the laughs and the memories that I share with my these workshops that cover the topics of provided at the workshops by fully Student Advisory Committee and connection to the MIAA and Educational Athletics fellow members. The experience, however, that I will always leadership, teamwork, sportsmanship, participating in each session, sharing focused on the topics of “Teamwork remember is how the MIAA has given me a voice as a female respect and goal setting. ideas with peers and collaborating with and Leadership.” Small groups were AJ Jaber, King Philip Regional student-athlete. The students and adult-advisors of the As students arrived for each student leaders from across the state. organized where students discussed High School committee believe in my leadership and my dreams, and for workshop, they participated in an The same schedule of presenters contemporary topics and scenarios The MIAA Student Advisory Committee that I am forever grateful. icebreaker activity to create posters and sessions was utilized for both that impact a young person serving in a has allowed me to seek more maturity The Student Advisory Committee has completed a the winter and spring workshops. The leadership role on a high school athletic and responsibility in my life. I have template for MIAA member schools to implement student Massachusetts first session was facilitated by Daniel team. learned to collaborate my feelings and advisory committees in their own schools. The reason I am celebrates Switchenko, Ph.D., Exercise Physiologist continued on page 23 ideas about sportsmanship with like- so excited about this is because I come from the Advanced minded people. My experience has been Math and Science Academy—a school where co-ed sports GWS Day 2020 astounding because I feel like I only have were the only option 10 years ago. In my school, I have continued from page 9 a select amount of friends with these qualities. However, started an athletic internship program as well as the renewal New Agenda: Northeast; Sara B. SAC has expanded my pool of friends with these qualities of the varsity letter. This, however, is not enough. I cannot Woodward, CSCS, Vice President of immensely. I am forever thankful for the experience I have wait to bring this committee to my school—in the form of a Athletics, Massachusetts Association for gained in this program. captain’s council - to further our athletic program. Health, Physical Education, Recreation I am very excited about our SAC Footprint and how we are The one skill I would not have if I wasn’t a part of the and Dance; Patti Doherty, Director striving to get more youth involvement in athletics through of Schools and Youth Engagement, clinics among schools. Special Olympics Massachusetts; I have developed numerous skills as a result of being part of Kathleen Duff, Director, Career and SAC. I have learned how to collaborate with other people and Technical Education, Newton Public take their ideas to expand upon my own. Also, I have learned committee is technically not a skill, but rather a development Schools, and President, Massachusetts to listen to other ideas with my ears open to all suggestions. I in personality. I have gained an overwhelming amount of School Administrators Association, and believe without SAC, I’d be missing these critical skills in the confidence from the facilitating of other students. While I Anna Litteer, Senior, Advanced Math workforce. might have had a slight amount before joining SAC, I have and Science Academy (Marlborough), Serving with SAC has given me a sense of pride. I know that become sure of myself and my leadership abilities. I was and Co-Chair, MIAA Student Advisory I am spending my time and effort with other student athletes recently given the opportunity to speak at the Girls and Committee. Captains of various Winter Sports gathered December 6, 2020 at the MIAA Office in for the betterment of athletics in my state. When I compete in Women in Sports Day Celebration as the co-chair of SAC. • The presentation of the Franklin to sharpen their leadership skills through activities and presentations. sports, I take in mind the important factors of leadership and Without having confidence in myself, I would not have been Gubernatorial Proclamation by Vicki apply them to my life at home, school, and the field. As a result able to go up to that podium without notecards and deliver a Caburian, Wellness Teacher, Lincoln- of SAC, I am closer to my Athletic Director and other student speech on my experience of empowering other females. For Sudbury High School. athlete leaders in my school. that I am forever grateful to SAC. • Conferring of the Massachusetts My school—the Advanced Math and Science Academy—is Women in Athletics Distinguished Anna Litteer, Advanced Math only in the early stages of developing its athletic program. Service Awards, which went to: Lynn and Science Academy Our Athletic Director Pete Jones has worked wonders in the Anderson, Varsity Field Hockey Head Over my time on the Student Advisory program over his four years, moving us from a school just Coach, Mohawk Trail Regional High Committee, not only have I developed coming off co-ed sports to a school fighting to be district School (Shelburne Falls); Eileen friendships that would have never been champions, and winning. While he has taken strides for Donahue, Head Field Hockey Coach, made had I stayed in the confines of our school to be recognized in the world of athletics, I have Watertown High School; Martha my high school, but I have evolved as been working to have our athletics recognized by the school Jamieson, Athletic Director, Silver Lake a student and a person. As a future itself. AMSA is an academically focused school—proud of Regional High School (Kingston), and sports management major, I sought its second place in academic rankings across the state Theresa Nyhan, Teacher and Coach, opportunities outside of my STEM-crazy high school that would for public schools. As a freshman, I brought the varsity Mansfield High School. relate to my athletic based career. Naturally, I applied for the letter back to our high school. This, however, was not The morning ended with the MIAA Student Advisory Committee the summer before my enough. When I joined the MIAA, I was taught the values conferring of certificates on all junior year—after the 2018 New England Student Leadership of leadership as well as commitment and sportsmanship. participating student-athletes, and a Spring sport captains confer during a breakout session at the Captains and Coaches Conference, and received a position. The past two years have raffle of sports equipment. workshop for Spring 2020 held March 6, 2020 at the MIAA Office. been nothing short of enlightening. I have been exposed to continued on page 14 10 Building the Future Summer 2020 Building the Future Summer 2020 11 Sportsmanship Summit draws over 1,000 student and athletic community leaders

IAA’s 26th Annual Sportsmanship Summit was held Friday, November 22, MIAA Wellness adjusts quickly 2019 at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. Over 1,00 student-athletes and to restrictions imposed by COVID-19 Madult leaders attended. The day began with the singing of the national anthem by Samuel Stearns, he March arrival of COVID-19 and the closing of all Massachusetts schools, Xaverian Brothers High School. The first general session consisted of the conferring brought a quick halt to the balance of in-person wellness programming for of the MIAA William N. Gaine, Jr. Sportsmanship Award, the Student Sportsmanship Tthe 2019-2020 school year. Essay/Multimedia Contest Awards, and the MIAA District Athletic Sportsmanship In its place, a series of 15 virtual webinars was created. In partnership Awards.(See box at lower right for recipients.) with the MIAA Partners in Prevention, webinars were presented from late April Student-athletes and adults then separated to attend breakout sessions with through early June. Webinars varied in length from one to two hours and topics appropriate content for each. included youth mental health, personal resilience, self-care, positive psychology Students could choose to attend “Teaming Up to Make a Difference,” presented and the growth mindset, teaching and learning from home, staying moving and by Eddie Slowikowski, Gold Medal winner for the USA Track & Field Team, and a motivated, youth vaping, Project Here training, creating safe and supportive three-time NCAA All-American, or one of two Game Officials panels, both entitled learning environments for all students, and healthy or disordered eating. “Officials, Coaches, Student Athletes & Fans: A Mutual Respect.” Adult attendees School personnel consistently expressed how appreciative they were that the MIAA was able to present these workshops on an ongoing basis throughout the spring, make them available at no cost, and provide professional hours as well. Webinars were well attended and received positive feedback. Participant could choose between attending “Finding the Balance,” presented by Peter Roby, evaluation data included the following statements: retired Athletic Director, Northeastern University, and a tour of the Hall at Patriot • Thank you to the MIAA for providing us this opportunity at this most Student-Athletes listen during one of the student breakout sessions at the MIAA 26th Annual Place. Roby’s presentation discussed creating and sustaining a culture of success Sportsmanship Summit at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough November 22. challenging of times. while focusing on the student-athlete. The Hall at Patriot Place Presented by • This was one of the very best professional development webinars I have Raytheon honors and promotes individuals that have made exceptional contributions by Slowikowski, “The 4-minute Formula.” Eddie used storytelling and high-energy showmanship, ever taken. to the New England Patriots organization, collects, preserves, interprets, researches to show participants how to follow through on a vision from inception to achievement and how to • Very pertinent to what we as educators and students are facing each day and exhibits Patriots and New England football historical information and artifacts create positive energy for themselves and others. - focus of education should be on connections and well-being of students and and shares their cultural impact with the public. staff. All attendees reconvened in a final general session for the conferring of the Ron • I think ALL of this information is perfect for me to use as a resource for my Burton Community Service Award, this year presented to Roby, and a keynote speech Sportsmanship Awards 2019 coaches, staff and student-athletes. • The presenter was excellent! She was engaging and made her ideas 19th Annual Student Sportsmanship Essay/Multimedia Contest Awards easily accessible. The best webinar/ workshop I’ve seen on the subject of Prompt: “Describe how sportsmanship inspires leadership in you, your team, and mindfulness. your school community.” • The whole thing was incredible. I did not want it to end. I loved how the Literary First Place: Clarissa Garzon, Fontbonne Academy presenter shared his stories. He was direct yet relational. I loved his program. Literary Runner-Up: Akarsh Aurora, Ashland High School • I don’t think that there is ever a LEAST part of a webinar. Maybe there are Multimedia First Place: Chris Cogan, Middleboro High School things that one has heard before from other sources, but there is always a take from anything that educates and makes you better, in life. District Athletic Sportsmanship Awards • I felt like I learned things today that I can do to help myself but also my District A: Salem High School students. I also think I can better help my students by using these strategies in District B: Burlington High School my life and practice. District C: Silver Lake Reg. High School • The information was concise and efficiently presented. In this way, the District D: Avon Middle/High School material was very easy to digest and presented in a way that allowed nearly District E: Westborough High School immediate implementation into practices of many roles at the secondary school District F: Frontier Reg. High School environment. District G: Monument Mountain Reg. High School • I honestly found the entire workshop helpful and engaging. Mental health District H: Lowell Catholic High School in student-athletes is not a subject that is touched on or discussed often enough, and I think as educators and administrators, we need to recognize and MIAA William N. Gaine, Jr. Sportsmanship Award address this subject, in the classroom and on the fields. Aaron Polansky, Superintendent/Director for Old Colony Regional Vocational • The topics you have been providing are fabulous and very timely for today’s Technical High School (Rochester) world. Thank you. Participating in one of two Game Officials’ panels at the 2019 Sportsmanship Summit Please click here to access a recently created online wellness resource were, from left, Mary Lou Thimas, (Field Hockey and Lacrosse Official); Cara Pember Ron Burton Community Service Award document for schools, accessible on both the MIAA homepage, as well as the (Basketball, Lacrosse and Soccer Official); Tim Hooton (Football and Ice Hockey Official), Peter Roby, Retired Athletic Director, Northeastern University wellness page on the MIAA website (www.miaa.net). In collaboration with MIAA and Jim Byrne (Baseball and Basketball Official). The panel, entitled “Officials, Coaches, Student Athletes & Fans: A Mutual Respect,” was offered as part of the student breakout sessions that day. continued on page 19

12 Building the Future Summer 2020 Building the Future Summer 2020 13 SAC 2019-2020 members reflect,continued SAC 2019-2020 members reflect,continued Anna Litteer, continued I wanted nothing more than to bring these values back to MIAA on a student level, and the values we promote. I hope responsibility, communication and mindset meant to me. wanted to achieve more. I learned from the conference that my high school. With these values in mind, I launched an to spread awareness about MIAA opportunities, like captain’s I am happy to continue to give my time, skills, and money for anything is possible if you set your mind to it, and that is what I athletic internship with my athletic director. There, I help workshops, NESLC, and SAC for other students and future betterment of my community far after my time serving on the did to become a part of SAC. him with administrative duties as well as work to start a leaders. MIAA SAC. Before this year, I might have believed that the MIAA After being accepted as a member of the Student Advisory captain’s council at my school. I want to create a mini SAC I have loved serving on SAC this year, and I am so grateful concerns strictly on-the-field sports issues (as most of the Committee, we attended an orientation at the end of summer. within my school to teach the values of the MIAA and promote for all the new friends I have made, and for the things I have 225,000 Massachusetts athletes assume), however, through From our very first meeting, I knew I belonged within the communication between the teams. The MIAA has taught me learned along the way! all these previously listed experiences, I now understand the group. Every person strived to make a difference in their so many things at a high level, but I truly believe it starts with MIAA tackles all mental health, diversity, drug abuse or any communities, as well as to the MIAA. It was a refreshing that one student in that small school. I hope that by starting Colleen McNamara, Shrewsbury issue concerning a Massachusetts athlete. They even go as feeling to know that I would be surrounded by these amazing this council in my school, it will not only be the beginning of a High School far as implementing change in all Massachusetts schools people for the rest of the year. In order to develop team- dominant athletic department, but a source of leadership at Serving on the Massachusetts each year. In other words, leaving a “Footprint.” The 2019- building skills (which would be necessary for the rest of the my high school. Interscholastic Athletic Association 2020 SAC is working towards providing every Massachusetts year), we participated in a Community Service project. As a My favorite experience from SAC was attending the Student Advisory Committee (MIAA school with a SAC of their own, as a way to provide leadership group, we filled hundreds of empty backpacks with school National Student Leadership Summit with the other returning SAC) offered me the chance to opportunities and deliver crucial information to every member supplies to be sent to many towns around Massachusetts. members. The MIAA presents the returning members with a positively influence the community of every school. This is such an exciting opportunity since We were able to accomplish our goal very quickly and it was great opportunity to represent the state of Massachusetts as while simultaneously building personal we are reaching—or attempting to reach-225,000 athletes fascinating to see how we were already meshing as a group. student-leaders. We were able to meet other students from character. about real topics to better not only their sports teams, but Additionally, some of the backpacks were even going to across the nation and develop a sense of community across Each month, members of the SAC facilitate workshops, hold the community as whole. Debating about topics, eventually students at Foxborough or the Foxborough Charter School, borders. The leadership skills we developed at the summit by discussion meetings, and attend MIAA educational summits. arriving at one joint idea, simulates what some adults do in which made the entire project feel even more rewarding. I was being outgoing individuals and active members exemplifies the All activities instilled responsibility, and communication skills business, marketing or politics, so it is fun to get a taste of directly impacting my community, and I was thrilled to give values that the MIAA continuously implements in its member but more importantly, transformed my mindset to be more that type of committee and board exposure. back to those who needed help. As a group, we still continue schools as we were open to learning new things. We, as open-minded and concerned with bettering those around people, are now open-minded and rich in experience thanks to me. Specifically, assisting the MIAA Educational Athletics Emma Dahl, Foxborough High School the MIAA. Committee in filling hundreds of backpacks with school At the end of my freshmen year, I was supplies to children in need. Knowing these young children will approached by my Athletic Director to Claudia Mazzocchi, Lincoln-Sudbury strut into kindergarten, elementary school or middle school serve as a MIAA Student Ambassador to encourage Community Service, which is an important value Regional High School with a smile ear to ear, having equal opportunity to learn with for the rest of high school, and this was of the MIAA. I think that being a part of this committee helps My experience on SAC has changed the right materials, was humbling. how I became exposed to the amazing to reinforce those ideas. my life for the better. Sports have been Volunteering at the MIAA Wellness Summit educated me opportunities provided by the Student By being a member of SAC, I also developed many such a big part of my life for as long as on mental issues including depression, anxiety and bipolar Advisory Committee. I attended all of the leadership skills. As a junior, I am not currently a captain this I can remember, and I’m glad I get to disorder. The MIAA Sportsmanship Summit at Gillette Stadium Ambassador huddles my sophomore year, year, but I will be a track captain for my senior year. Despite help make a difference in the lives of brought sports official concerns to light, and forced our small and I fell in love with the program. I am very involved with my not having experience as a captain, I still had to serve as a other students through sports. I love the group of the SAC to keep the on- and off-the-field issues high school and club sports, so it was a great experience to facilitator at the captains’ workshops and other conferences. feeling of promoting good sportsmanship, discussion running smoothly. Facilitating captains, coaches meet with like-minded people multiple times a year to discuss I had to be willing to lead a group of people (including both because it is something that I believe everyone should be and athletic directors across Massachusetts at the Captain’s community service and leadership. Despite being satisfied students and teachers) and problem-solve if we encountered conscious of. Through the workshops, we get to remind people Workshops encouraged understanding about the athlete-to- as a Student Ambassador, I knew that I wanted to become issues. For example, if a group was quiet, we had to be willing of the importance of it, and how they can make a difference coach relationship as well as drug and alcohol use on sports even more involved. At the Community Service Showcase, to share our own experiences to ensure that all participants at their individual school. I also feel honored to have been teams. Understanding that if facilitating these important the New England Student Leadership Conference (NESLC) felt comfortable with sharing their ideas. Because I am one selected as part of the student representation of the MIAA, conversations save even one athlete on one sports team, we was advertised. I watched the video and immediately knew I of 19 people on the SAC, I learned the importance of using and I am proud to be a part of something bigger than myself. did our job. wanted to go. my voice and making sure that I continually added ideas I am excited about this year’s Footprint because it will I was thrilled to give my time at the Diversity, Equity and After talking to my AD, I completed the application and to improve the committee and our goals. Furthermore, I be able to be adapted to lots of different schools. The Inclusion Summit, tackling racial, disabled, and LGBTQ+ was accepted as a student delegate. I eventually attended developed a sense of responsibility and became a leader individual SACs will be customized to each school, and since stereotypes. Again, saving at least a few from ridicule. the conference and I always say how it was the highlight within my own school. It was my goal to bring back the ideas I every school has different needs, that is something that’s Similarly, at the National Girls and Women in Sports of my summer. I loved meeting people from all over New learned from SAC to my own community, and I even managed important. Being a part of SAC has helped me develop my Conference, I was honored to sit amongst hundreds of young England, especially those who had the same passions of to learn time-management skills. Attending SAC events does public speaking skills. Even though I was pretty comfortable female athletes to congratulate the successful, brave women helping others and playing sports. At the beginning, I was a require me to miss school frequently, but this simply helped to with it before, it has allowed me to practice and get much before us. I know a handful of listeners were moved enough to little nervous about attending because I didn’t know anybody improve my communication skills, and I learned to plan ahead. better. Listening to the ideas of other SAC members and carry on the legacy of title nine advocates of 1972. there. I was the first person from Foxborough High to even In my opinion, the SAC events are extremely important to the students at captain’s workshops has reminded me that Finally, it is a privilege to be on the Team Harmony SAC as a consider attending. However, my roommate became a great development of my character, and I am able to learn valuable there is usually more than one efficient way to do things. result of work within the MIAA SAC, planning the Global Youth friend of mine (in only a short few days) and I completely lessons at them that I could not learn from school. Hearing lots of different perspectives has helped me develop Rally Against Hate (upcoming October 20th, 2020) since it opened up as person. Because there was such a great sense There were also conferences that we did not facilitate open mindedness. My communication skills have definitely is a step in the right direction for our world. The number of of community at the conference, I became more extroverted at, but we were able to attend and represent the MIAA. I improved too, through the workshops, summits, and working community service opportunities I have been granted provided and all fears vanished. I loved learning from all of the lessons have never attended one of these conferences before, so on our Footprint. Serving on SAC has allowed me to make a me with the chance to display caring and honorable behavior and I thoroughly enjoyed the Community Service day. I realized I enjoyed listening to all of the speakers and participating difference in the lives of others. When people at my school to positively influence our diverse community. Each event at NESLC that I truly wanted to make a difference within my ask about SAC, I am proud to tell them that we represent the certainly affected me differently; but, overall changed what high school and the rest of Foxborough. In order to do that, I continued on page 16 14 Building the Future Summer 2020 Building the Future Summer 2020 15 SAC 2019-2020 members reflect,continued SAC 2019-2020 members reflect,continued Emma Dahl, continued in the activities. For example, at the Sportsmanship Committee has been so much fun. It is so rewarding to be a really try to bring out the best leader in all of us. This has truly been one of the best things that has Summit at Gillette, I listened to the referees, who shared good citizen of my community, while also having a great time Our SAC “Footprint” wasn’t something that just popped into happened in my life and I’m thankful for all of the events that their experiences to a crowd of athletes. As an athlete, I with peers. I definitely want to continue to help expand my our head right away. It came from a lot of people sharing their did or didn’t happen that lead me here today. I am going to sometimes disagree with calls that refs make. However, their influence in more ways, because it is very important to me. different ideas throughout multiple meetings, until one of our miss the SAC we have now and the way we all work together. stories helped me to understand the hard work they put into I have loved being close to the MIAA and spending time with members brought up this idea in our December meeting. And This year has gone by so fast I can’t believe it’s already almost their jobs. It was a very eye-opening experience, and I was fellow leaders. it wasn’t just smooth sailing from that point on, either. Our over. I have grown so much this year and as sad as I am for it fascinated by many of their answers. The Diversity, Equity, and idea is to encourage each MIAA school to create smaller SAC’s to end, I am excited for how much I could grow next year. Inclusion Summit helped to reinforce the idea that anything Luis Aldarondo, Jr., Fitchburg High in their schools. They would come up with a new Footprint is possible. Despite adversity, any person can achieve their School every year to benefit their school and community. The main Karlie Guimond, Smith Academy goals if they believe in the power of determination and hard My time on SAC was amazing! To be goal is to get students to continuously want to better their The best way to describe my time on work. Often times athletes with disabilities, for example, are able to sit in a room with student athletes surroundings and to push themselves to bring their own ideas the MIAA SAC is life-changing. The MIAA overlooked, but this summit helped to teach that everybody from around the state and come together to the table, really giving students a voice in their school. We SAC was the best part of my high school has strengths and weaknesses. Throughout the year, SAC to be the voices of all of our peers in went back and forth for a couple of meetings trying to perfect career. I truly looked forward to every time has been connected to Special Olympics, which also is very Massachusetts was a great opportunity to what we wanted to share with the state. All in all, we were able we’d head to Franklin or other places to relevant to me. I am an avid member of Best Buddies at my be a part of. Especially while having the to create a plan having Student Advisory Committees in every meet, even when the Western Mass crew school and have attended Special Olympics throughout high support from great leaders like Phil and MIAA school, and we are excited about it, because we’ve been and I had to make the long drive. My school. It is a goal of mine to help develop our unified sports Pete who are great listeners and advocates for our ideas. able to come together and think of something that could help fellow members became more than just program at my school. At the Health Summit, I learned more My most proud accomplishment during SAC this year was others in their schools and we’re hoping they’ll be able to gain friends, they became like family. In addition, my facilitation about living a healthy lifestyle. It stressed the importance our social media campaign as more and more people are something from having an SAC. and leadership skills thoroughly improved during my time on of not smoking, drinking, and vaping, which I think is an using social media as their platform. I’m excited to see it Being a part of SAC, I have learned how to put myself out SAC, and I look forward to using them in my future. important lesson for all student-athletes. Overall, I was able expand as I think it will be a good way to get our message out. there and to not be timid or shy with others. This all started I am so excited about our “Footprint” this year. We are to listen to all of these lessons by being a member of SAC. I can’t wait to see what the up-and-coming SAC members have when I attended NESLC in July of 2019. I had leadership skills, hoping to develop SACs within each of the MIAA member The summits helped to make my experience even more in stock. and I was mainly an extrovert, but I didn’t know I was capable schools. Student-athletes will have an outlet to express ideas, meaningful, and I am so glad to have been empowered by A skill that SAC has taught me is to go into everything of putting myself out there the way I began to do during those objectives, and goals that will help strengthen their school’s them. Furthermore, I learned about the importance of hard positive and confident. Being thrown into uncomfortable four days. After that, I just continued to grow. Applying for the athletics and environment. Through this, each school will get work by helping to organize, set-up, and clean at all of these situations is never fun at the time, but staying positive and Student Advisory Committee and going to the interview were to experience what we get to do, just on a smaller scale. We summits. I never left early and always made sure to help as telling yourself that you can do something will always start you big leaps for me as well. Within those I became more confident hope that these SACs can meet regionally to discuss their much as I could, because I believe strongly that you must put off with the upper hand. in myself and learned how to have confidence. Every single ideas and cooperate on how to make their schools a better in the work to achieve the reward. This is the same dedication Being a part of SAC has influenced me to be open-minded to time we introduce ourselves to large groups I get butterflies place. and determination that I use when playing sports. everyone’s ideas. To hear all voices is one of the best ways to in my stomach, but pushing through that little moment to As I said previously, I have improved on my facilitation skills. As a team, it is our goal to accomplish something within stay connected as well as to help make the best plan possible. facilitate, I calm down. I have grown as a leader, a friend, Every Captain’s Workshop, the SAC facilitates a session about the MIAA. This is known as our Student Advisory Committee I would always recommend everyone to join SAC as it has and a person through SAC, and I don’t think I would have sportsmanship and leadership. I used to get so worked up Footprint, and our idea is to expand the SAC program to given so many people opportunities that will stick with us learned all of this about myself and others through any other about public speaking, and now, I don’t anymore. My last time schools within the MIAA. I clearly am very lucky to be a forever. experience. facilitating, I was all by myself, and I was a little nervous, but member of SAC, and I think that the program is beneficial On SAC I have learned from so many others’ experiences; I ended up doing great, as my group only got to question four for all students. However, people in my high school do not Julia Trager, Wahconah Regional it really has opened me up to life outside of my small town out of 10. I would’ve never been able to do that before SAC. even understand what I do. I try my best to explain what we High School of Dalton. And yes, I have explored and I have had several Also, another skill I have improved is my ability to cooperate accomplish as a committee, but it is hard to comprehend On the MIAA Student Advisory other experiences that have exposed me to the lives of with others in a team setting. SAC works together to develop unless you are a member of it. In fact, even my own AD does Committee, I have been exposed to so others, but it’s usually only a one-time thing, showing me just new ideas to improve the MIAA. My ability to work with others not completely understand the purpose of it. Throughout the many experiences that I never could has greatly improved while being on SAC. entire year, he thought it was the same as being a Student have imagined being a part of. Every Before NESLC in 2018, I just thought the MIAA was this Ambassador. Therefore, the SAC needs to gain more exposure meeting we all get back together and it organization that ran the playoffs. In reality, they do so much in high schools across the state, and this was our main doesn’t feel like we hadn’t seen each more than that. They keep our athletics programs thriving, motive behind our idea. We plan to develop mini SACs (led by other in a month or as if we’ve only a glimpse of alternate lifestyles. SAC meets multiple times even from far away. They make sure that we students are administration and the ADs), in which students have the same talked seven times in person. These people were strangers a year at different events where we are exposed multiple competing in safe and positive environments, where we can opportunity to develop as leaders. They should also create a nearly six months ago but I feel like I’ve known them for so times to different people. Especially during the Community do our absolute best in whatever sport we are competing in. I Footprint within the school or community each year to ensure much longer. I was nervous to walk through the doors of the Service events—we’re able to give to others, and it’s extremely am so honored to be a part of this organization, I don’t know that the club has a plan that they are working to accomplish. MIAA headquarters the first day we all met in September and rewarding because you learn about the things you take for what my life would’ve been like without it. Looking back on This could include improving school resources (equipment, I am so glad I never hesitated to do so because I was walking granted. It really changes your mindset and makes you more my experience with SAC, I wouldn’t change a single thing. I fields, etc.), expanding the unified sports program, or into one of the greatest experiences of my life. As much grateful for what you have while wanting to give back to others still can’t believe that a small-town girl from Western Mass got encouraging community service projects. Creating an idea as a as the students and adults who come to every conference more. Also, on SAC as a junior, I was able to see the drive chosen for this prestigious committee. It has been both an group requires communication and teamwork skills, which are or workshop learn, we facilitators are able to take back an and excitement the seniors have about college. They’re a honor and a blessing to represent my school at this level, and important in school or in a job. We are very excited to share equal amount of new ideas for ourselves. Different mindsets, powerful influence to have on our lives because as a firsthand bring back all the things I’ve learned to my community. this idea with the rest of the MIAA and implement gradually in lifestyles, leadership skills, and more are all taught to us from experience it makes me want to work as hard as they have in This has truly been my favorite part of high school. Some schools across the state. keynote speakers and our peers. I have been able to learn sports and in school to really set myself up for a bright future Overall, being a member of the MIAA Student Advisory from my actual peers on SAC and from MIAA staff as well who as they’re doing now. continued on page 18 16 Building the Future Summer 2020 Building the Future Summer 2020 17 SAC 2019-2020 members reflect,continued SAC 2019-2020 members reflect,continued Karlie Guimond, continued of the friendships I’ve made through SAC will last forever, my connection with the MIAA and their Educational Athletics Stephanie Cantone, Salem High School prepared me for college; meeting new people and having to these people are like my new family. I’ll always remember my programs. Working with the MIAA SAC is truly a work with them is a taste of what it will be like. Working with interview, orientation, Western Mass carpool, Richard’s vlogs, The people at the MIAA and the student leaders they one-of-a-kind experience. There will never this group shows me the way to work with people who have Indy, Gillette, developing youth clinics (mine is still running choose are always an inspiring group of people who strive for be another group like yours and although similar interests, not just a group my teachers assign during to this day, and we were featured by USA Field Hockey!!), the more than excellence, aiming to better themselves and the each year offers the same events, each English class. It shows you a taste of the real world when you Captains Workshops, and so much more. I’m getting a little people around them whenever they get the chance. I could not group brings a new experience. Making a are working with people who have similar interests. Before emotional thinking about how my time on SAC has come to have had a better experience and am glad I had the chance to “Footprint” and working at these inspiring working with the SAC, I had attended NESLC, gone to many a close, because this experience truly changed my life. I will work with them all. events is something that has really captains workshops and summits. I had always attended never forget this experience, opened my eyes as to what I can do as and learned. I have always found an interest in all of this and I will always be a member of the MIAA SAC, and I cannot Rachel Romero, Fitchburg High School an individual. We learn such important lessons that are up realize that it is not for everyone, it takes someone who wants thank the MIAA enough for changing my life. Family isn’t My experience on the MIAA Student to us to take back to our schools. I think a lot of people think to make a difference and actually care about these things. “important,” it’s everything. And the MIAA SAC will always be Advisory Committee is one that I will that they can only make a difference when they have a group These events always made me curious, I remember leaving my family. never take for granted. I met many new of people to support them, but the MIAA has shown me that NESLC so inspired that I wanted to show people all that we and amazing people that challenged it just takes one person. I have learned about programs like can change. The SAC has shown me how to actually make the Nicholas Oliveira, Uxbridge High School me to step outside of my comfort zone unified sports, and ideas like Community Service initiatives, changes I have seen in other places. Ever since I have joined, I The Student Advisory Council, or and be a leader. The friends I made on things that I probably wouldn’t have thought of on my own. felt like I had this responsibility to actually start these changes. SAC, is a great opportunity for student this committee are not only my friends Not only have I learned so many new ideas to bring back to When you are an ambassador, you have so much knowledge leaders throughout Massachusetts to because we get along well, but because my school, I also have made 18 new friends. All of us bring coming in, and it is up to you to plan and start these things, work together to improve school and each one of them is a role model to me something special to the group, and we get to work together but the SAC showed me that more heads are better than one. athletic programs. My experience on the in their own way. Not only were the members essential in to make something special. At any event, you can just see We work together and make this possible to do in our own MIAA SAC has been amazing because creating lasting memories, but also the tasks and activities that we all just talk, it doesn’t matter with who, there is always community. it gave me an opportunity to bond with that we completed as a team. The monthly meetings or something to talk about. The conversations keep going and we This group has shown me the power you really do have as people all over the state and to work on workshops, where we assist others into becoming enthusiastic all just try to get to know each other for the short amounts of an individual. When you care about something, you can make problems within our schools and athletic programs. It gave all players on and off the field/court, helped me become the time we have. Even as simple as driving to the events, I met change. Educational Athletics has made such an impact on us an opportunity to discuss what we thought were problems person I am today. two strangers, who have become my friends on our long drives my life, that I want it to be able to do the same. I’m glad that I in our schools and how we were going to solve them, which One thing that SAC has accomplished this year that I’m early in the morning. After working with this group, I have had the opportunity to learn everything and to let other people led us to our “Footprint” for this year’s SAC. We decided that most excited about is our “Footprint.” We decided to bring made so many new friends, learned new lessons, and had the experience what I have. the only way to cover each school’s individual problems would a smaller version of what we are into every one of the MIAA privilege to go to events. be to bring a mini-Student Advisory Committee back to all the schools, for students who want to lead in their school and be a I am very excited about our Footprint, implementing SACs in schools involved with the MIAA so that they can focus on their difference. our schools and eventually the MIAA schools. This is one of the MIAA Wellness programming personal issues in their own communities with the assistance The skills I’ve developed as a result of being part of SAC are ideas that my state group had at NESLC, and it is something adapts to COVID-19 reality of the MIAA. This way more students have the opportunity to being able to share my ideas without hesitation and converse that the SAC can implement. For me, this is exciting because continued from page 13 learn and be involved in the MIAA’s great leadership programs. with others to come to an agreement. Before SAC I was always it is something that my school needs. A lot of students want Being a part of SAC has really pushed me to become a hesitant before raising my hand or speaking on a certain change, and we have a bunch of groups like Student Council, Partners in Prevention (PIP) organizations, this document better leader by teaching me new leadership skills, such as subject, but SAC taught me that my opinion is valued and that student government, NHS, all of them serve their purpose was created as a result of COVID-19. Organizations communication, public speaking, and problem solving. This every contribution I make matters. SAC also taught me how year in and year out, but something is still missing. We have continue to offer professional development webinars, to communicate and work with decided that these SACs can be made according to your post resources, grant free access to programs, and others efficiently. school’s needs which shows the power these groups can have. update their websites with new information regularly. Serving on SAC has influenced My community doesn’t have unified sports, and doesn’t have This document will continue to be updated as more me and my connection to the much focus on community service, so I want this group to be information and resources are made available. program has allowed me to constantly practice leading by MIAA and Educational Athletics because I was able to be the ones that start this change. I have started, but I hope that What MIAA wellness programming for Fall 2020 looks teaching new groups of people and guiding them through closely updated on all the events happening in the state. I I can help pass on what the MIAA has taught me to my peers like, remains to be seen. That being said, whether in discussions on different topics which affect the students all was able to understand certain aspects of my sport that I was so that this group continues for many years. It has so much person, virtual or a hybrid of both, we will continue over the state, such as drugs in schools and student mental previously confused about, and was exposed to workshops potential to make change in my school and community. to provide a wide variety of wellness professional health. Without this program I would have not have been and summits that I also didn’t know about before SAC. The SAC has helped me to develop leadership skills, development opportunities, as well as resources and able to become as successful as a leader in my school or SAC is such a great way to be invested in your community communication skills, and teamwork skills. This is a group strategies for responding specifically to mental health community. and the sports that you play. On top of that, having a of some of the best leaders in the state, so to be a leader issues in schools, following this time of shutdown and Before I was a part of this program I knew little to nothing committee made of leaders is not only beneficial for the among such strong leaders helps improve your leadership isolation. of the MIAA. I had no idea that it was this program that communities in which the leaders belong, but also for the skills. Having to work with completely new people that have scheduled my athletic competitions for my soccer team and leader individually. Seeing how others interact and tackle similar goals can be hard. We all have strong opinions, yet for my track and field team. It was not until I attended the challenges is important for all of us in the committee to we still have to work together and talk about our ideas. New England Student Leadership Conference that I truly experience and learn from. Communication is crucial within this group—among each understood what the MIAA was and stood for, Wellness, other as well as when we facilitate group discussions. I never For another Wellness article in this issue, see page 6. Sportsmanship, Leadership, and Community Service. After would have thought that I would be the one who facilitates For information about MIAA Wellness Initiatives, please contact my time at NESLC, I interviewed for a position on the Student discussions with such strong leaders and adults at captains Carolyn Bohmiller at [email protected] Advisory Committee. This program has definitely broadened workshops and summits. In a way, I feel like the SAC has 18 Building the Future Summer 2020 Building the Future Summer 2020 19 Intersections: Sports Bonds transcend game Regional Student Leadership Workshops Hosted During the Winter continued from page 7 MIAA they work together to accomplish their game, I enjoyed the constant support by Student-Athletes uring late February and early winning goals. They yell and shout to the yelling and screaming of the Arizona of the Month March a series of regional student support each other which brings the Cardinals. Dleadership workshops were crowd together. Whether it is watching a football honored conducted across the state. These Being a sports fan of local game on TV or playing outside, sports workshops were organized through the professional teams, you can easily make can bring a lot of benefits to a person’s IAA has named the following “Developing Local Leaders” program life-long memories. For instance, I went life. People should get more active and students as Students of the and were supported by grant funding to my first NFL game in Arizona where go out into the community to see what MMonth for the 2019-2020 from the Massachusetts Department I watched Arizona Cardinals vs Detroit they can do for a job that can make a school year: of Public Health Bureau of Substance Lions. Because it was my first NFL difference in someone’s life. September 2019—Cierra Yim, Addiction Services. Workshops were Dartmouth High School; Thomas facilitated by Dana and Deb Hult from Intersections II: The high school Estella, Bishop Fenwick High School Core Trainings and Omari Pearson from October 2019—Jennifer Walker, Passion 2 Purpose, LLC. spring sports season that wasn’t Douglas High School; Davone Workshops were conducted at the Keovongmanysar, Shepherd Hill following locations. Due to the COVID-19 by Colleen McNamara Regional High School disruption, additional regional programs Shrewsbury High School Senior and MIAA Student Advisory Committee Member November 2019—Juleimy Ambert scheduled through the end of March Deb Hult of Core Trainings facilitates the interactive Developing Local Leaders workshop Ortiz, Putnam Vocational Technical were cancelled. “Impose Your WIL...Women in Leadership” at Georgetown High School on March 5. imilar to many student-athletes, I prior to quarantine. With the added time, Academy; Ryan McCallum, February 27 – Monomoy Regional faced tremendous devastation this I began exercising at home, walking with Bridgewater-Raynham Regional High School a forum where academic and athletic The “Impose Your WIL” workshop is a spring, with the announcement of friends, and spending valued time with High School March 2 – Narragansett Regional student leaders receive a customized, powerful, interactive training designed S December 2019 my final high school lacrosse season and my sister, brother and parents. —Kerrigan Hemp, High School intensive training that introduces and to unlock teenage girls’ potential and to the well-anticipated senior celebrations Over the last two unexpected months, Central Catholic High School; Ryan March 4 – New Bedford Whaling reinforces basic leadership and life enhance their leadership effectiveness. being canceled. the hole missing from the roaring cheers Descheneaux, Lowell High School Museum skills to assist in maximizing their This training is based on leadership In that aspect, every student-athlete— at SHS lacrosse games was filled with January 2020—Tori Schille, March 5 – Georgetown High School contributions to teams, school and principles that help build self-esteem, freshmen in high school through seniors laughter at dinners and card games with Tewksbury Memorial High School; March 10 – Charlestown High School community. The experiential-based enhance self-worth and focus on in college—is missing out. Whether it be my family. As were the in-person senior Thomas Potenza, Bishop Feehan March 11 – East Boston High School curriculum relies on shared learning to becoming women of sound character proving yourself as an underclassman, ceremonies at Shrewsbury High School High School March 12 – Burke High School/ impact and empower the participants through the “power of nice.” The forum narrowing down college choices replaced with a “drive-by” to see all our February 2020—Anna Israelian, English High School and stresses personal growth through reinforces the value of relational during the pressing recruiting time- faculty, virtual commencement, and Bay Path Regional Vocational leadership; getting along with and line, or leaving your final mark as an individualized graduation. Technical High School; Damian adapting to others. upperclassman, every single athlete was Although this situation is Comeau, Narragansett Regional The “Passion 2 Purpose” workshop hit hard. heartbreaking for so many—in countless High School is designed to help students find clarity After properly reminiscing, I felt different ways—hopefully we all March 2020— Bridget Twombly, Workshop topics included “The Inner individual and team challenges focusing and direction through setting goals and grateful to carry out each day with many experienced something positive we Manchester Essex Regional High Edge”, “Impose Your WIL: Women in on communication, the value of building “brain mapping”. The training includes activities I hadn’t engaged in as much otherwise wouldn’t have. School; Andrew Cabral, Seekonk Leadership” and “Passion to Purpose”. relationships, making healthy life a process of providing necessary life High School The “Inner Edge” workshop provides choices and fun. skills to equip students in pursuing April 2020— Alexandra their dreams; clarifying student’s Prevention resources available for Member Hoogendijk, Duxbury High School; strengths while showing them how their Schools Dana Maloney, Ayer Shirley strengths align with their dreams; and he Massachusetts Health • How to Talk With Your Kids About Regional High School helping students develop their own Promotions Clearinghouse provides Vaping Fact Sheet Monthly award recipients receive personal game plan as it relates to their Ta variety of helpful resources on • Prescription Opioid Misuse a certificate of recognition, are educational and career goals. topics such as Vaping and Prevention Brochure (English featured on www.miaa.net and If your school or league is interested Opioid Misuse Prevention. These and Spanish) are honored at the MIAA Awards in hosting a regional student leadership resources can be downloaded • Opioid Misuse Recognition Banquet in the spring. program next year, please contact the directly or ordered in larger Prevention: Student Athletes Nominations for the award may be MIAA staff at 508-541-7997. quantities for distribution Fact Sheet Packet submitted by principals, athletic to parents, student athletes • The New Look directors, teachers, coaches, and community members at of Nicotine Addiction – guidance counselors or other school Follow MIAA on Social Media preseason meetings or other Frequently Asked Questions administrators. Award recipients school functions. Please visit About Vaping will be selected from September https://massclearinghouse.ehs. • The New Look of through April each school year. state.ma.us for materials such Nicotine Addiction – Vaping For more information, please visit Omari Pearson of Passion 2 Purpose, LLC, conducts an interactive leadership workshop @MIAA033 MIAA as: Fact Sheet (English and the Leadership Page at www.miaa. for students in the Boston Public Schools as part of the Developing Local Leaders program. Seven of the planned workshops were completed by mid-March before the miaa033 • 7 Ways to Protect Your Teen from Spanish) net. COVID-19 virus disrupted the schedule. The program is supported by grant funding from MIAA Alcohol and Other Drugs • Youth Vaping Handout the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Bureau of Substance Addiction Services. 20 Building the Future Summer 2020 Building the Future Summer 2020 21 Inaugural MIAA Harry Agganis NFHSLearn offers PD for high school coaches he National Federation of State ongoing learning for participating course combinations. High School Associations (NFHS) students, and the NFHS School Honor Participating institutions Scholarships conferred Thas created the NFHS School Roll program provides a pathway for that earn Level 1, 2 or Honor Roll, a national recognition coaches within schools to be honored 3 distinctions receive he Massachusetts Interscholastic our outstanding student-athletes the Ryan McCallum, a senior and a program designed to promote for their involvement in professional a large display banner Athletic Association (MIAA) in scholarship opportunity as well as football and track-and-field athlete, is a professional development for high development,” said Dan Schuster, NFHS commemorating their Tpartnership with the Agganis spotlight the legacy of Harry Agganis as leader on and off the field. He excels in school coaches through the completion Director of Educational Services. accomplishments Family is honored to announce the a model for educational athletics.” his academics and volunteers his time at and their dedication to professional inaugural recipients of the Harry Agganis Tori Schille, a senior at Tewksbury the Hannah B.G. development and education-based Student-Athlete of the Year Scholarship: Memorial HS is a member of the field Shaw Nursing athletics. Tori Schille, from Tewksbury Memorial hockey and ice hockey teams, Class Home, learning of specific courses through the NFHS After filling out an online application, For more information on the NFHS High School and Ryan McCallum, from of 2020 president, DECA treasurer, how to care for Learning Center at www.NFHSLearn. schools can achieve three levels of merit School Honor Roll and to apply for Bridgewater-Raynham Regional High and coordinator of the annual Megan senior citizens. com. within the NFHS School Honor Roll, participation in the program during the School. McCarthy Fashion Show, which raises He spends “Education-based programs provide which are obtained once 90 percent 2020-21 school year, please visit www. In September 2019, the MIAA and funds for Dana Farber Cancer Institute most of his free of a school’s coaches – excluding nfhslearn.com. the Agganis Family announced this and the Meghan McCarthy Research time assisting MIAA conducts captains volunteer coaches – complete various partnership with great pride. The Fund in memory of a former student. with family workshops recipients, who will each receive a Ron Drouin, Tewksbury HS Athletic Ryan McCallum responsibilities continued from page 10 Bridgewater-Raynham $1,500.00 scholarship, were selected Director commented, “I am so happy Regional High School since the recent The third and final session of the day from the 2019-2020 winners of the for Tori Schille loss of his father. focused on “Goal Setting and Action monthly MIAA Student-Athlete of the being named the Tom Bresnahan, Assistant Principal Planning.” Dana and Deb Hult from Core Month awarded to both a male and inaugural female at Bridgewater-Raynham RHS said, Trainings coordinated an interactive female student-athlete who best recipient of the “When thinking of Ryan McCallum, what session that provided strategies for exemplify the highest achievement Harry Agganis immediately comes to mind are the identifying goals, formulating a plan in the areas of academics, athletics Scholarship. She words resiliency, motivation, character, of action and measuring success. The and community service. The legacy of is a tremendous modesty, and perseverance. Ryan is a workshops concluded with action plans Harry Agganis as a scholar, an athlete role model model on how to deal with close and that were created by students from each and a servant to his community is now at Tewksbury personal tragedy while still fighting of the schools in attendance. enshrined in this annual scholarship Tori Schilling Memorial High each day to be strong for himself, his If your league or district is interested recognition of two outstanding MIAA Tewksbury Memorial School, she has family, and all those close to him. I am in hosting a High School Captains High School The MIAA Student Ambassador Winter Huddle provided an opportunity for over 140 student-athletes. Bill Gaine, MIAA done a fantastic so impressed with how he has excelled Workshop during the 2020-21 school student leaders from 56 MIAA Member Schools to collaborate, idea share and action plan Executive Director affirms that the job balancing her academic success both academically and athletically while year, please contact the MIAA Staff at with respect to community service initiatives. Additionally, the students participated in a “MIAA is extremely pleased to partner with athletics and extra-curricular facing so much adversity. He is a true 508-541-9834. “service challenge” in which they collected and donated winter hats and gloves to those in need across the state. with the Agganis family to provide to activities.” inspiration to all of our students and faculty.” MIAA/MSAA Antiracist Educator Book Group Greg Agganis, great-nephew to Harry Agganis, stated on behalf of the Agganis MIAA/MSSADA joint Sportsmanship Initiative set to begin Initiative will run through summer family, “Ryan and Tori both excelled on n January, the MIAA and the officials to plan next steps. Sportsmanship Promotes the SAA and MIAA is announcing group will meet weekly on Zoom for an and off the playing field. Ryan, a two- Massachusetts Secondary Schools “The Sportsmanship Committee Opportunity for Diversity, Equity and an added resource to our hour-long discussion. The goal is to start sport athlete in football and track and IAthletic Directors Association has been in discussion planning Inclusion On Your Teams, in Your MAssociations respective diversity the week of June 29th and run for eight field, and Tori in field hockey and ice (MSSADA) announced a partnership for the November Sportsmanship School and In Your Community”. initiatives and is inviting administrators weeks finishing the week of August 17th. hockey. Both were top honor students Summit,” Pearl said. “New Breakout sessions will also include to an education book study this summer. The reading schedule will be determined and made significant contributions to committee members will be topics involving DEI. We look forward to this opportunity once a book is chosen. their respective communities.” Gaine joining on July 1, and I will be The Sportsmanship Committee will to engage our memberships in a If you are interested in joining us, affirms the “character displayed by the in a movement to revitalize the value excited to welcome them and their also be looking to revise MIAA public conversation about how we can support click here to access a form to sign up selected student-athletes is in direct of Sportsmanship as an integral input.” service announcements, brochures, one another to be antiracist educators to and to help us choose the book. One of alignment with Harry Agganis’ qualities component of Educational Athletics. For the essay and multi-media and tournament guidelines for fan provide school communities across the the moderators will email you soon with of character, leadership and community You are invited to read the memo contest the Committee is planning expectations,” Pearl said. “There Commonwealth that are welcoming and more information. service.” from MSSADA Executive Director Fran to pose this question as the was an increase in sportsmanship engaging for all. Our Association members are Both winners received notification of Whitten, former Athletic Director at theme for entries: “Describe How violations for both student athletes The book group will be moderated reminded to visit their respective their selection via a virtual meeting with Algonquin Regional High School. and coaches in the 2019-20 by three Principals passionate about websites to avail the statement on the presence of school administrators MIAA Assistant Director Rob Pearl, seasons. The committee would like this work: Peter Gillen, Principal, West diversity and suggested resources. This and personnel, family members, and who is the liaison for Sportsmanship to offer mentorship opportunities Springfield Middle School; Ted McCarthy, learning effort will be consistent with MIAA representative Tara Bennett. A initiatives, said the committee will and improved communication with Principal Sutton High School; and Julie the joint mission of the MSAA/MIAA joint formal presentation of the Agganis be expanding in size as it adds athletic directors for those schools Vincentsen, Principal, Hanscom Primary committee. Scholarship will be scheduled for a later members from MSSADA and sports involved.” School (Lincoln Public Schools). The date. 22 Building the Future Summer 2020 Building the Future Summer 2020 23 Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association 33 Forge Parkway Franklin, MA 02038

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

July 15, 2020 MIAA Student Advisory Committee Application Deadline

July 20-22, 2020 NFHS National Student Leadership Summit (Virtual)

July 20-August 7, 2020 MIAA Student Advisory Committee Interviews

August 17, 2020 MIAA Student Advisory Committee Orientation

Please visit www.miaa.net for additional information about Educational Athletics initiatives including:

Coaches’ Education Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Unified Sports Community Service Leadership Wellness Sportsmanship

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

24 Building the Future Summer 2020