Franklin HS wins Teen Mental GWS Day 2015 Battle of Fans Health Lois Dwira rang Can you hear What can two it in with the Rattle City? Associations do? National Anthem, p.4 p.5 pp.6—7

Building the Future the newsletter of MIAA Educational Athletics Summer 2015

Fifth annual Coach of the Year and Student-Athlete of the Month awards night Coaches and Athletes honored at May Banquet

onorees, their loved ones, another mentee, David Chaplin and guests gathered in of Milford High School. the early evening of May The MIAA Student-Athlete of H28th for the 2015 MIAA Coach the Month Award is presented of the Year and Student-Athlete of on a monthly basis, September the Month Banquet at the MIAA through April, to recognize one Office in Franklin. Photos were male and one female student-ath- taken during the reception hour, lete at MIAA member schools and then the group moved to who excel in the classroom, during the conference rooms for dinner, competition, and as good citizens speeches and awards. in the community. Nominations After-dinner speeches covered are accepted from school princi- the meaning and impact of the pals, athletic directors, teachers, two awards. Guest Speaker Mia Sarah Lambert of Hopedale Junior/Senior High School, center, poses with coaches, guidance counselors, or Natale, a 2014 graduate of West- MIAA Associate Director Peter Smith, left, and Assistant Director Dick Baker, other school administrators. borough High School who had right. Sarah was one of 16 student-athletes to receive the served as chair of the MIAA Stu- Student-Athlete of the Month designation during the 2014—15 school year. The 2014—15 Student-Athlete dent Advisory Committee during of the Month awardees are: her senior year, talked about her and NFHS National Coach of ly served under him as Assistant September: transition from high school to col- the Year 2014—15, Cassandra Carreiro, Attleboro lege and how athletics impacted spoke on mentor- LEADERSHIP High School, Field Hockey it. Claude Valle of Weston High ing. He highlighted Jamison Koeman, Whitinsville School, MIAA Swimming and his relationship with his own men- Coach at Weston. Coincidentally, Christian School, Cross Country Diving Coach of the Year 2014 tor, Peter Foley, having previous- Foley was in the audience with and Track

Educational Athletics Briefs continued on page 2

Essay Contest Open Sportsmanship Essay/ First Place ($400) and Runner- the Sportsmanship page The 22nd Annual MIAA Multimedia Contest is Up ($200) prizes will be at www.miaa.net; follow Sportsmanship Summit open now. The theme for awarded in each category the Educational Athletics won’t happen until Friday, this year’s contest is: (Literary and Multimedia). tab to Sportsmanship in November 20, 2015 at “Paying forward…How an Contest award recipients the drop-down menu. Gillette Stadium (mark act of Sportsmanship made will be honored during the your calendars!), but the a difference in your life.” summit. For details, check out continued on page 2 In our member Coaches and Students Honored continued from page 1 MIAA Citizenship Days promote Community Service schools October The 2014—15 Coach of the Year awardees IAA Citizenship Days at the Na- The Blue Hills boys’ and Sarah Lambert, Hopedale Junior/Senior are: ismith Memorial Basketball Hall girls’ basketball teams High School, Soccer Alpine Ski (Boys & Girls) of Fame in Springfield (Districts F and head coaches Brian Benjamin Bichet, Manchester Essex Regional Samantha Martyn, Needham High School M& G; April 10) and Northeastern University Gearty and Thomas High School, Golf Baseball in Boston (Districts A, B, C, D, E & H; April McGrath participated in the November David Wilbur, Beverly High School 14) applauded individuals, teams and school American Cancer Society’s Lauren D’Entremont, North Andover High Basketball (Girls) clubs/organizations for outstanding Commu- Coaches vs. Cancer School, Swimming & Diving, Softball Frank Ferreer, Assabet Valley Regional Tech- nity Service efforts during the previous year. program this season. Ryan Dahlgren, Milford High School, Golf nical High School MIAA member school administrators are The teams began their and Lacrosse Field Hockey fundraising in December, December Jaime Mariani, Nashoba Regional High COMMUNITY SERVICE after the coaches received Francesca Pinard, , School a letter from Boston Cross Country and Basketball Football encouraged to nominate individuals, teams Celtics coach Brad Stevens, Yannis Halkiadakis, Peter Afanasiw, Cohasset Middle-High and clubs/organizations from their schools encouraging teams North Middlesex Region- School for these annual honors. Representatives from the Skills USA Program from Lynn Vocational Technical Institute accept the throughout the state to al High School, Football Ice Hockey (Boys) MIAA Community Service Award in the Club/Organization Category on behalf of their organization at support this worthy cause. and Indoor Track Chris Spillane, Franklin High School Look for nomination forms this winter. For a Citizenship Day 2015 ceremonies at Northeastern University on April 14. Skills USA is active in the Lynn The teams began selling January Lacrosse complete list of the award winners, please visit Community; they have worked with the Fire Department to renovate areas in town, supported various Wall of Hope cards in Makenzie Cyr, Nathan Skermont, Shrewsbury High www.miaa.net under Educational Athletics. projects to benefit homeless people, ease hunger and support the elderly. school and a bulletin board Douglas High School, School was set up in the lobby Cross Country, Indoor Soccer (Boys) outside the gymnasium to and Outdoor Track Fran Bositis, Franklin High School display messages of hope Owen Hunter, Mon- Soccer (Girls) to friends and loved ones ument Mountain Re- Tom Geysen, Franklin High School Celebrity Golf affected by cancer. Soon gional High School, Golf Softball the board was covered with February Brian McGan, Hampshire Regional High cards; by the end of their Margot Rice, Barn- School endowment fundraising efforts, the stable High School, Soc- Swimming and Diving (Boys) Tournament teams combined to raise cer, Basketball, Lacrosse David Chaplin, Milford High School over $2,100 to support the Josiah Douglass, Swimming and Diving (Girls) American Cancer Society Chicopee Comprehen- Marilyn Fitzgerald, Andover High School The MIAA Endowment Fund helps to preserve and create and its life-saving research, sive High School, Indoor Tennis (Boys) programs and services Track Michael Wartman, Andover High School educational opportunities for Student-Athletes for cancer patients and Frank Ferreer, Girls Basketball Coach March Volleyball (Girls) their families.“Blue Hills is at Assabet Valley Regional Technical Megan Cook, Lee Margie Grabmeier, Hopkinton High School Where: Plymouth Country Club, 221 Warren Avenue, Plymouth MA a very proud community,” High School receives his Coach of Middle and High School, Volleyball (Boys) When: August 10, 2015 said Ed Catabia, “and as the Year plaque from MIAA Assistant Soccer, Track & Field Linda Zacchilli, Milford High School Registration begins at 11:00 am; Shotgun Scramble at noon the Athletic Director, I am Director Dick Baker as Associate Frank Roche, Ar- Wrestling very proud of our coaches, Director Peter Smith looks on. lington High School, Manny Costa, Saint John’s Preparatory Cost: $175 per golfer w/cart; $700 per foursome; $1,000 per threesome + celebrity their accomplishment, Football, Basketball and School All of the above includes Lunch, Dinner, Gifts and Prizes and our student athletes.” Baseball Coaches vs. Cancer April Celebrities may include Andy Brickley, Bob Lobel, Steve Burton, Jackie MacMullan empowers coaches of all Jennifer Lee, Woburn Memorial High and Doug Flutie sports, their teams, and School, Basketball, Softball, Indoor Track, and local communities to Soccer, Registration form available at www.miaa.net; please register make a difference in the Jeffrey Pullano, Wahconah Regional High fight against cancer. School, Soccer, Basketball and Outdoor Track early as space is limited; payment in full is due by July 17

For more information, The MIAA Coach of the Year Award seeks contact Greg McKeever, to recognize and honor “teacher-coaches” who Community Manager at the have had an impact on the lives of student-ath- American Cancer Society letes by encouraging them to succeed and by for Coaches vs. Cancer at helping them develop self-confidence, ambi- The MIAA Office hallway was transformed for the greg.mckeever@cancer. tion, a sound work ethic, and other skills or May 28th evening reception. Before the banquet org or 508-270-4823. values necessary or helpful for success in their began Grynn and Barrett Studios photographed later lives. honorees and families.

2 Building the Future Summer 2015 Building the Future Summer 2015 3 Bruins partner with MIAA to honor student-athletes Conference faces issues around Teen Mental Health or the 13th consecutive year, the MIAA SEMGHL/Coastal, Madison Scavotto, Coughlin Conference, Dan Baldino, and Boston Bruins have partnered to Falmouth High School Ayer-Shirley High School MIAA and its sister organi- member schools to attend in an Karen Nardone, MIAA Well- munity (a panel of experts and honor a student-athlete from boys and SEMGHL/Northeast, Kathryn Jacobson, Fay-Wright Division, Brian Turnbull, Chi- zation, MSSAA (Massachusetts email, saying: “This program will nesss Coordinator, who planned students); “postvention” (Dr. Fgirls high school ice hockey leagues across the King Philip Regional High School copee High School Secondary School Administrators’ allow you to engage in learning, the event with her assistant Caro- Berkowitz); suicide prevention state for best exemplifying a commitment to SEMGHL/Southeast, Emilie Peavey, , Andrew Cronin, Association), pooled resources to dialogue, and reflection on these lyn Bohmiller and Cora Armenio programming (Meghan Diamon, the ideals of sportsmanship throughout the Marshfield High School Medford High School important issues related of the MSSAA Staff was pleased. MSW, LCSW), and life-coaching season. These student-athletes were selected SEMGHL/West, Lauren Tschirch, Medfield Hennessey League, Jenny Dunn, Lee Mid- WELLNESS to student wellness.” “I was amazed at the turnout. for adults who work with all types by representatives of their league according High School dle and High School MSSAA President The caliber of speakers and their of students (Jeff Levin). confront the complex problems Dana F. Brown, Principal of presentations were top notch. The second session offered ses- around adolescent mental health Malden High School, likewise The student groups that present- sions on suicide from a father’s at a joint conference April 8 at addressed his Association, re- ed were particularly impressive,” perspective (Steve Boczenowski); the DoubleTree Hotel in Milford, minding them that they had set she said. working with transgender youth The day’s program featured a (PFLAG); suicide prevention general session with keynote, two (Lauren Gablinske); depression, concurrent workshop sessions, a (Molly Jordan and Vanessa Pros- luncheon and a panel presenta- per, Ph.D.); trauma (Joanna tion. Bridger, LICSW), and meditation to the following award criteria: BOYS LEAGUES , Griffin Lynch, Milford Keynote Speaker Dr. Larry Ber- (Helen Rainoff). An exemplary record of complying, both in Bay State Conference, Ron Pucci, Dedham High School kowitz, Director and Co-Founder The after-lunch panel included spirit and letter, with all league and MIAA High School Mayflower League, Jay Silva, Diman Re- of the Riverside Trauma Center in John D’Auria, Ed.D. President rules and regulations during the season. Big Three, Stephen Ulich, Brockton High gional Vocational/Technical High School Needham and Clinical Instructor of TEACHERS 21; Bill Chaplin, A demonstrated record of respectfully ac- School MVC/DCL/Division 1, Patrick Couillard, of Psychology at Harvard Medi- Assistant Principal at King Phil- cepting the rulings of game officials. , Thomas Guarino, East Chelmsford High School cal School addressed depression ip Regional High School;Steve A record of conduct, on and off the ice Boston High School MVC/DCL/Division 2, Myles Cohen, and suicide and presented some Boczenowski of Teenage Anx- Catholic Central League/Large, Paul Friso- Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School disturbing facts, including that iety and Depression Solutions SPORTSMANSHIP li, Arlington Catholic High School MVC/DCL/Division 3, Aidan Conlon, suicide is the leading cause of (TADS); Kyrah Altman of Let’s Catholic Central League/Small, Alexi Afa- Lowell High School death among adolescents, with Empower and Do (LEAD), and that brings honor to self, team, school, and nasiev, Saint Joseph Preparatory High School Middlesex League, Sean Verrier, Reading thousands of incidents occurring Nathan Chiu, a student at Welles- community. Commonwealth Athletic Conference, Jake Memorial High School One of the workshop sessions featured teens from Massachusetts high schools nationally each year. ley High School. A commitment to teamwork by providing Towski, Northeast Metropolitan Regional Tri-Valley League, Michael Messier, Hop- who are working with the Interact Club, sponsored by Rotary International, Dr. Berkowitz’ slides showed “At the end of the day, many all members with recognition of their tal- Vocational School kinton High School to provide peer training and peer mentoring focused on stress/depression/ the possible causal factors for de- attendees spoke with me about the ents, an opportunity to contribute them to suicide prevention. pression and suicide that demon- need for a ‘next-step’ conference, the team, and a spirit of camaraderie. strated the complexity of the task to learn more about implementing A demonstrated respect for opponents MA. The event drew more than Adolescent Wellness as a priority before, during, and after games. 300 participants. at their Annual Convocation in The recipients of the 2015 Boston Bru- MIAA President Keith Crow- September of 2014. ins-MIAA Sportsmanship Awards are listed ley, Principal of St. John’s Prepa- Both Associations were well below. These student-athletes were honored ratory School in Danvers, urged represented at the event. on Tuesday, March 31, 2015 at the TD Garden during the first intermission of the Boston Bruins game against the Florida Panthers. GIRLS LEAGUES Conference participants shared their thoughts and reflections on the issues Bay State Conference, Sarah Goss, Wellesley surrounding teen mental health and suicide prevention. The poster was High School The Following dates for the “Fundamentals of Coaching” class displayed in the venue hallway near the conference exhibitors’ tables. Catholic Conference, Emily Brooks, Notre have been scheduled: Dame Academy (Hingham) of suicide prevention. The stark programming in their schools.,” Catholic Central League, Lexi McNeil, St. June 13, 2015: Malden High School , 8am—noon and disturbing nature of his pre- Nardone said. Mary’s High School (Lynn) June 15, 2015: Sandwich High School, 4pm—8pm sentation was underscored by “The MIAA, MSSAA, and MVC/DCL/Large, Kerry Pouliot, Littleton June 18, 2015: Andover High School, 4pm—8pm the audience’s stillness and rapt DESE will be meeting to clarify High School The Franklin High School spirit squad “Rattle City” accepts its first- June 20, 2015: Lowell High School, 8am—noon attention. requirements under the new legis- MVC/DCL/Small, Ali Longmoore, BATTLE place award in the MIAA inaugural “Battle of the Fans” contest. Teams June 20, 2015: Bishop Stang High School, 9am—1pm The first set of concurrent lation and to plan workshops and Waltham High School produced videos to capture their schools’ spirit, and winners were workshops featured sessions on training programs for 2015–16. Middlesex League, Ali O’Leary, Reading chosen by the MIAA Sportsmanship Committee. Second place went to Anyone interested in attending these classes should sign up at students with anxiety-related and “Please keep checking our web- Memorial High School South Hadley High School and third place to Hopedale Junior/Senior http://www.miaa.net/miaa/conferences. Classes are listed indi- oppositional behavior (Jessica Mi- sites, and we will send out infor- , Adrienne Por- High School. vidually for registration. nahan, M.Ed., BCBA); mental mation, with dates, in the fall,” razzo, Medford High School health and wellness in the com- she added. 4 Building the Future Summer 2015 Building the Future Summer 2015 5 Massachusetts Female Athletes celebrate Girls and Women in Sport Day Wellness news, highlights and previews

taging this year’s Massachusetts Cele- Attorney General sponsors YOU LEAD program bration of National Girls and Women on May 29 to serve Springfield Area in Sports Day was a challenge; the date Girls and Women in Sport Essay Contest Winners 2015 Swas moved twice “due to inclement weather,” he enthusiastic chorus of “Good Morning!” from over 150 excited middle school Presenter: Molly Brogie, Sutton High School; Chair, Student Advisory Committee the catchphrase of the Winter of 2015. student and adult leaders from five Springfield-area middle schools began an When the female athletes and their mentors amazing day-long YOU LEAD Conference at Springfield Technical Community First Place: Sarah Dunne, Peabody Veterans Memorial High School and advocates finally gathered on April 3 at the TCollege on Friday, May 29. Sponsored by Attorney General Maura Healey, the conference Second Place: Lily Stewart, Ipswich High School Great Hall at Faneuil Hall in Boston spring featured discussions and activities focused on opioid and substance abuse prevention, as Third Place: Emily Rodricks, Sturgis Charter Public School East fever was in the air, and the enthusiasm was well as leadership, being a positive influence and making healthy life choices. palpable. Hampden County District Attorney Anthony Gulluni spoke to the group, encouraging Lois Dwira of Worcester Technical High Massachusetts Women in Athletics Distinguished Service Award 2015 them to make good choices, do well in school and be appropriate role models for their School opened the ceremonies with the Na- peers. The Attorney General talked about tional Anthem. MIAA Associate Director Presenter: Naomi Martin, Athletic Director, Lexington High School her agency’s role in promoting safety, and Sherry Bryant joined Marcia Crooks of the WELLNESS protecting our rights. She then turned to New Agenda: Northeast and Ali Rheahume Honorees: the students, asking them for their advice about issues that concern them and what of the Massachusetts Association for Health, Mary Ryan, Rockport Middle/High School her office could do to help. Their responses were honest and heartfelt. One student Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Tanya Sullivan, Middleborough High School expressed concern over the amount of drugs and alcohol in her neighborhood. Another in welcoming the athletes and their families Mary Lou Thimas, Coach, Administrator, Official and Women’s Athletics Advocate mentioned the filth and litter in his, while another spoke about the bullying he sees and supporters, and Vicky Caburian of Lin- in his school. Yet another, stated that he wished that when he walked down the street, coln-Sudbury Regional High School read the that people didn’t lock their doors when they see him. Ms. Healey told them that she Gubernatorial Proclamation. “Looking out at your faces gives me such letes from participating schools marched across would be working on these issues and would come back to them in a year to see how After the awards were conferred (see green hope...it gives me such inspiration for all that is the historical stage, received their certificates they thought she was doing to address their concerns. inset box for awardees), Massachusetts Attor- ahead, not just for Massachusetts, but for our and were photographed, and Quincy native YOU LEAD Program Trainers Tom Hermanowski and Jill Leach led the students ney General Maura Healey gave the keynote country...so stay at it, be BOLD, be BRAVE, and All-American Girls Professional Baseball in a number of thought-provoking and fun ice-breakers, energizers and team-building be yourselves and never let any- Alumna Mary Pratt, sang and presided over activities. During the conference, students and their adult advisors networked with their one or anything get in the way the raffle. Lois Dwira of Worcester Technical High School started the peers, learned about what other schools are doing to address leadership and substance LEADERSHIP of your goals or your dreams ceremony with her amazing rendition of the Star Spangled abuse prevention, and examined their own values and choices. During the afternoon or your belief in you, because Banner . address. Healey, who was captain of the Har- at the end of the day you can do, you can be, For a video with the day’s highlights, visit: vard Women’s Basketball Team before gradu- anything you want to be.” https://vimeo.com/125499482. Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey, ating in 1992, said: After Healey’s address, the two honored ath- works with a breakout group at the Springfield area YOU LEAD program May 29. MIAA March Captains Workshop draws record numbers

he MIAA Captains Workshop held March 16 attracted so many registrants it was moved off-site and held at the DoubleTree Hotel in Milford, MA. One hundred twelve students and 29 adults attended. TFeatured presenters were Daniel B. Switchenko, Ph.D., Eastern Connecticut State University, on “The Role of the High School Captain,” and Deb and Dana Hult of Core session, each school created an action plan for a drug-free program or activity that they Trainings™, on “Goal Setting and Action Planning.” would like to implement in their schools. Members of the Student Advisory Committee led breakout groups discussing “Teamwork “It was a great day!” was the resounding refrain echoed at the end of the day. and Leadership.” The MIAA is grateful to DA Gulluni and AG Healey for their commitment to opioid “The numbers of captains that attended would indicate that more and more coaches and substance abuse prevention. The MIAA would like to thank AG Healey and her staff and administrators realize the difference that good leadership can make,” said Switchenko. for sponsoring the conference and for their support and assistance. The MIAA would Captains workshops are held three times a year, one at the beginning of each sports season. also like to thank Springfield Technical Community College, Sodexo, and Dominos Schools frequently send teams of captains and their adult leaders. Pizza, for their generosity and kindness. Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey, center, was the keynote speaker at the Massachusetts Tentative dates for the 2015—16 school year are August 20, December 11 and March Celebration of National Girls and Women in Sport Day held April 3, 2015 at Faneuil Hall, Boston. She is 15. Principals and Athletic Directors will receive emails as those dates approach, and the To learn more about the YOU LEAD program and conference schedule, or to host shown here with MIAA Student Advisory Committee members Catherine McNamara of Wellesley High MIAA website, www.miaa.net, will post registration opportunities. Please watch for these a conference in your area, please contact Karen Nardone, YOU LEAD Program School, left, and Molly Brogie of Sutton High School, right. Healey’s speech focused on the role sports announcements and register early, since these popular programs fill quickly. Coordinator at 508-541-7997 or by email at [email protected]. Please visit our participation played in her own development and the gifts and talent the young women gathered will website regularly for updates www.miaa.net and click on the YOU LEAD logo. bring to Massachusetts and the nation. 6 Building the Future Summer 2015 Building the Future Summer 2015 7 Intersections Massachusetts, but more importantly for my honored and privileged to have worked with INTERsections Academics continued from page 8 school. I’m not held to a higher standard in the and shared ideas with the amazing student TheMassachusetts Interscholastic I was interested in becoming a member buildings of Billerica Memorial High School, leaders on the SAC and also student leaders Athletic Association Leadership encourages its of the MIAA Student Advisory Committee but I hold myself to a higher standard because from across Massachusetts. My experiences as member schools to teach Education- because I feel I bring unique experiences and of how much I have matured with my experi- a SAC member have helped me understand al Athletics through the following perspectives to the Committee, yet share a ences on the SAC. Being able to go to all the more fully how important student leadership Life five pillars: common passion for helping our schools and different leadership conferences with these kids is in our schools and communities. communities. As a non-athlete with signifi- in the Blue Polos—to have said I was a part constituents re ect Wellness: cant leadership experience, I feel I have made of the MIAA SAC for the 2014-2015 school Conrad Joyal, Longmeadow High School on the many intersecting facets to empower students to the same impact on those around me as stu- year—is really such a tremendous honor. Over The MIAA Student Advisory Committee Wellness make healthy life choices dent-athletes who serve as a role model to other this past year, the members on the committee has been one of the most positive experiences of MIAA educational athletics students. I choose to be a positive role model have grown very close together. I’ve had in my high school career. It has al- to those around me. I choose to step up and The thing I like the best about being on lowed me to grow as a person and develop my by Peter Smith Molly Brogie, Sutton High School Sportsmanship: be part of something larger than myself, and the committee is how I represent my school leadership skills, like public speaking and facil- MIAA Associate Director High School students tend to think of the to teach respect for self, strive to make a difference. I am happy and and more importantly my family and athletic itating groups of people. I have made life-long and members of the Student Advisory Committee MIAA as a rule-making entity, as nothing but team, opponents, officials, proud to say that my leadership experience director. Being able to say I am/was one out of friends and meet many new and great people. the organization that designs tournaments and rules, and the game itself and qualifications allowed me entrance into over 200,000 student athletes who was chosen It has given me the opportunity to attend he “Intersections” portion of this delivers discipline. I have spent two years as a this prestigious and talented group of young for this committee is a feeling I will never for- different workshops and meetings, such as the newsletter provides the reflections of member of the Student Advisory Committee, leaders, and it is my sincere hope that I have Sportsmanship Summit at Gillette Stadium, individuals regarding various aspects and over this time I have experienced all of the Coaches’ Education: blazed a trail for others to come after me. I Our ideas as individuals and as a the MIAA’s Annual Meeting, and captains Tof MIAA Educational Athletics programming. other facets to the MIAA. I was never aware of look back at the doubts and fears I had about group held weight among groups workshops. Overall, the MIAA Student Advi- to provide resources for As the 2014-15 school year comes to an end, how many resources were available to me and teacher-coaches who serve fitting in, and now I laugh…the other 15 much older, qualified, and experi- sory Committee has been a wonderful period the members of the MIAA Student Advisory my school through the MIAA, and I consider as curriculum instructors of members are my best friends and, though they enced than us. My experiences with of my life and I am truly thankful for it. I will Committee were asked to reflect on their ex- myself lucky to have been exposed to them. joke about my lack of athletic ability, I know the MIAA have shown me that this remember this past year forever. periences. Being a member of the committee has been educational athletics they support and respect me, and acknowledge organization works diligently to do This outstanding group of student leaders extraordinarily fun; I’ve made really good my point-of-view. the greatest good, and values the PJ Kendall, Groton-Dunstable Regional attended the New England Student Leadership friends, and I’ve enjoyed the phenomenal pizza Leadership: students. High School Conference (NESLC) in July 2014 and were at our events. It has also been an eye-opening to promote the power of Xavier Dillingham, Silver Lake Regional I learned of the committee at the New En- selected for participation on the committee experience. My participation in facilitating positive influence that High School —PJ Kendall gland Student Leadership Conference. When I through an application and interview process captains workshops and in presenting to other This past year as a member of the MIAA Groton-Dunstable Regional High School applied, I had only a faint idea of my role, and in August. Over the past year they have met committees within the organization has shown student athletes and Student Advisory Committee has been an a hope that I would be selected. One morning on a regular basis to facilitate student leader- me that I am capable of much more than I teacher-coaches share as incredible experience. Looking back, I have after my interview I woke up to an email I ship workshops, speak at special events, plan ever realized. My experience on the committee role models grown so much as a leader and a great deal is get. It sets the tone for me to be the influence received on my phone congratulating me on educational athletic initiatives and provide has been a defining part of my high school due to the time I have spent on the Advisory behind leadership, encouraging other to be a becoming a member of the Student Advisory feedback from a student perspective. Below career—I even wrote my college essay on how Community Service: Committee. Here, I have learned even more good teammate/person, to just have fun, and Committee. I somehow deleted this email in are their thoughts regarding the opportunity this opportunity has changed me. I would not what it means to be a leader and the impor- to try something new that is uncomfortable. my drowsy stupor so that when I attempted to serve on this committee. trade all that I have learned and the friends I to recognize the privilege of tance of it. This experience means so much It’s something I like to call “stepping out of to show my parents, there was no sign I had have made on this committee for the world. athletic participation and to me because I know that I will be able to the box and capitalizing on the opportunities been selected. I panicked fearing I had dreamt Markus Bohmiller, Franklin High School the responsibility of giving take the knowledge and experience that I have that lie right in front of your eyes.” of being chosen until my father checked the Before attending NESLC 2014, I had no Savannah Bynum, Central Catholic High back to the community learned here and take it with me throughout This is only a brief summary of what it was trash bin on my cellphone, and found the knowledge of the Student Advisory Commit- School life and apply it to all aspects. I cannot thank like and what it meant to me to serve on this email I had deleted earlier that morning. I was tee, and therefore no intention of applying. I am a non-athlete… there I said it!! And, the MIAA enough for giving me this incredible years MIAA SAC. elated to be chosen, and curious about what I That all changed after going to NESLC. I was while this is not something you would expect opportunity to better myself as a leader, and I would be doing. informed of the committee and what they do to find on this page, just being ON this page know that I will take what I have learned here Brook Hansel, Lunenburg High School In my time on SAC I was most surprised and it sounded like something that would be should prove that anything is possible!! I didn’t Building the Future is the Educa- and continue to become a better leader and As a Student Advisory Committee (SAC) by the influence I had as a member of the right up my alley, so I applied, and I’m happy know much about the MIAA, let alone the tional Athletics newsletter of the a better person. member, my most rewarding role has been committee, and the respect I received from I did because it has been a great experience. I NESLC, until a friend recommended I apply. Massachusetts Interscholastic Ath- helping to facilitate captains workshops. Orig- administrators, coaches, and adults that I knew I was going to enjoy being on the com- I did, I got in, and went to one of the most letic Association. It is published four Nick Fantasia, Billerica Memorial High inally, I thought I’d be sharing different lead- interacted with at summits, meetings, and mittee after the first team-building day where life-changing events of my high school career. times per year. School ership skills with the students attending the my own school. Our ideas as individuals and everyone came together for the first time and Since I am not an athlete, I had quite a bit Over the past few months, I have had the workshops, which I have certainly had many as a group held weight among groups much within a single afternoon, we had all become of fear that I would be judged as an outcast, opportunity to be apart of the life-changing opportunities throughout the year to do. How- older, qualified, and experienced than us. My friends. We have all grown very close, even or worse, weird for even wanting to attend. I Editorial Staff: MIAA Student Advisory Committee. Being a ever, as I look back on the year, I am amazed at experiences with the MIAA have shown me though we only see each other approximately could not have been more wrong. The NESLC Peter Smith part of the SAC was one of the best experiences how much further I, myself, have developed as that this organization works diligently to do once a month. It’s truly been a privilege to be was truly one of the best experiences of my MIAA Associate Director of my life. I have really had the chance to see a leader by having the opportunity to help lead the greatest good, and values the students. a member of a such a select group and I will life, and, as such, I wanted to take a more myself grow as a captain, leader, and, most of these workshops. Whether it has been learning undoubtedly continue to use the skills that significant role and applied for one of the 16 Linda Taylor all, a person. It has been such an honor to say how to engage more participants in sharing Tyler Keohan, Acton-Boxborough Regional I’ve learned as a member of the 2014-2015 coveted spots on the Student Advisory Com- MIAA Support Staff that I represent the athletes from all across their opinion or learning how to speak with High School Student Advisory Committee. mittee (SAC). the state of Massachusetts. Not only do I set confidence in front of both small and large If you ask me for my biggest regret in High continued on page 9 myself up as a role model for students across groups, I grew with each workshop I led. I feel continued on page 10 8 Building the Future Summer 2015 Building the Future Summer 2015 9 Intersections always be grateful for the opportunity to lead serving two years on the Committee helped continued from page 9 and to do so with peers who feel the same way. me to develop fully as a leader, facilitator, and Preparations wrap up for New England Student Leadership Conference School thus far, I’m proud to say that it was captain. In my time with the Committee, the taking a macro-economics class (I have decided Brett Mazur, King Philip Regional High most impactful thing I have done was speak at ach summer, student-athletes and school activities participants In addition to group discussion, special guest speakers will share that I am not going to go near any career that School the Stand Up to Bullying Rally at the DCU from MIAA member schools have the unique opportunity inspirational messages, stories of overcoming adversity and uti- requires me to take another economics course). As a first-year and the youngest member Center in front of 3,000 people. Speaking in to network with students from Connecticut, Maine, New lizing the pow- I almost did not apply for the Student Advi- of the MIAA Student Advisory Committee, front of so many of my peers, especially on EHampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont and New York at the annual er of positive LEADERSHIP sory Committee at the end of my sophomore I have to say that the experience was intimi- such an important topic, helped me to develop New England Student Leadership Conference. The fifth annual influence. The year. I was turned onto NESLC from my dear dating at first but has become life-changing. confidence in my abilities as a leader; I now event will be conducted July 14-17, 2015 at Stonehill College. conference will also incorporate a community service project as friend and basketball captain Becca Shamah When I came to the committee, I was quiet welcome the opportunity to speak in pubic, The Conference Planning Team, which includes staff from MIAA, part of the leadership training curriculum that will take place in on the bus ride home from the worst game at first and slowly began to work my way into whereas before I may have been hesitant to advisors from schools, Student Advisory Committee members and local communities. (so far) of my high school career. She could the group and express all my leadership qual- speak in front of others. Ultimately, I believe many others, are wrapping up their preparations for the conference. not have chosen a better time to clue me in: ities. However, I learned very quickly that the Committee is an incredible opportunity The curriculum for the conference will focus on Respect, Positive NESLC changed my outlook and attitude with many students on the committee being for driven student-athletes to develop their Values, Perspective, Sportsmanship, Teamwork, Healthy Lifestyles, on sports entering my junior year, and the student athletes I could relate very well and leadership skills at a high level. The students Community Service and Self-Evaluation. These components will optimism and nuance she brought to that we all shared common beliefs and goals. This on the Committee come in as leaders, but, be presented in large and small-group sessions, led by outstanding conversation convinced me that whatever she experience has helped me be more outgoing, by June, they are exceptional at facilitating adult and college facilitators specifically chosen for their involve- had learned at this NESLC was worth a shot. come out of my shell and make many new conversations among their peers. My time on ment in athletics at the high school and collegiate level, and will At the end of that year however, a broken heel friends from across the state. the Committee has made me more confident, address contemporary issues that impact a young person being a and bad attitude left me doubtful that this As a part of the SAC, we have been able to outgoing, thoughtful, and appreciative of the leader and role model. athlete-based conference, and the Advisory interact with and learn from so many great MIAA and all that it does for the student-ath- Committee was something I could handle. leaders that influenced and motivated us to letes of Massachusetts. (It turned out alright). be proactive and get other student athletes at members, stood out among the rest of the Personally, the Student Advisory Commit- not have established the friendships that I have, Student Advisory Committee has opened our schools involved locally. This enabled us Kyle Morris, Montachusett Regional Voca- applicants is a huge compliment. Being part tee has taught me about voicing my opinion voiced my opinion on pressing matters, and I so many doors for me both as a student ath- a committee to impact our community and tional Technical High School of SAC has given me the chance to meet other while still listening to the ideas of others. In- definitely would not have gotten a picture with lete, a leader, and a well-rounded person. I’ve spread leadership throughout the state by do- Before I joined the SAC (Student Advisory student athletes like me from all over Massa- stead of just agreeing to all of the thoughts that Bob Kraft. The Student Advisory Committee met friends that I plan on keeping around ing captains workshops, leadership seminars, Committee) I had no clue what the SAC was chusetts and to become good friends with a are tossed around, I have learned to listen more is something that has added so much to me, for a long time. My roommate and I from and summer conferences. or that it even existed. About one hour into lot of them. This experience has given me the carefully, evaluate, and try to transform an idea and for that I am extremely grateful. NESLC are even working out a charity vol- You cannot find a better leadership oppor- the first day I was at NESLC 2014 one of the opportunity to take a role in my own school into a concept that the entire state could use. leyball game for this fall! SAC is definitely a tunity than the SAC Committee or better current members of the committee told me to be a mentor and leader to others. Being Many of the items that the committee puts Haily Yelle, Minnechaug Regional High program that forced me to push my boundaries instructors than Peter Smith and Naomi Mar- that I should think about joining. After asking part of SAC this year has been awesome, but into action are collaborative efforts that require School as an individual, but with those new limits tin. The MIAA Student Advisory Committee a couple of other current members and faculty it does come with lots of responsibility. The discussion, which is one of my favorite parts of For the past two years the MIAA Student came new opportunities, such as the Sports- has been one of the best experiences in my about what it was like I decided to submit my other members rely on one another so you being on the committee. Each member adds Advisory Committee has been a huge part of manship Summit, or the Boston Children’s application, even though I was still a little always have to pull your weight. Also balancing something to meetings, and when we all come my life. I had no idea what I was getting into Hospital Female Athlete Conference, that My time on the Committee has skeptical about it. school, sports, homework, alongside this isn’t together and contribute to a larger concept, when I applied for this committee, and now, as have and will continue to push me to grow. made me more confident, outgoing, That was one of the best decisions I ever easy. You have to be on top of your work inside we all feel like we are making a difference. I think about the orientation next month that Econ is definitely not something I enjoy in thoughtful, and appreciative of the made. If you join this committee you can and outside of school. But being able to say Although roundtable discussions are exciting, I walked so blindly into two years ago, I can the least—but I would take it 100 times over MIAA and all that it does for the stu- actually make a difference and you’re voice I’m a member of the MIAA Student Advisory the best part of being on the committee has really see what the SAC has done for me. My before missing out on my opportunities and dent-athletes of Massachusetts. can be heard. I personally never thought that Committee is well worth it. confidence has greatly increased. I feel surer friends on the SAC! my opinion or ideas could ever really become We are not just students from across of myself, and feel at ease talking amongst a —Catherine McNamara anything but they have. If you are on the fence Rachael Utegg, Austin Preparatory School the state that meet monthly; we are a group; likewise I feel more comfortable talking close-knit group of leaders who want Matt LaBranche, Minnechaug Regional Wellesley High School about applying or have never even heard of the When my athletic director approached me to adults. The friends and connections I’ve High School SAC, trust me you will want to learn more and about attending NESLC, I wasn’t sure what I the best for the MIAA and the students made are sure to last a lifetime. The most in- The 2014-2015 SAC has been an incred- apply! The people you meet, the opportunities was getting myself into. At that point, I was of Massachusetts. credible part of this experience has been seeing ible experience. I went from not being that life as it changed the way I interact with my you are given, and the things you can create not sure what the Student Advisory Com- kids my age grow as leaders. There is always interested in applying to being set on being peers, community and express my leadership will amaze you, I know they have amazed me. mittee was. It was not until I met people at —Rachael Utegg so much energy and excitement at meetings selected for it very quickly during my time at qualities. Thank you again for the opportunity. Plus the other members on the committee are the conference and realized our potential as a Austin Preparatory School and events. The enthusiasm is contagious. One NESLC, and it has been extremely reward- nothing less than fantastic! You meet people whole that I was eager to apply to be part of the of my most memorable experiences was at ing. Not only have I been able to improve Catherine McNamara, Wellesley High from all around Massachusetts and you make committee. Being a member of the committee been meeting with students at various events NESLC last summer when I was an SAC vol- my leadership skills, but I’ve seen how I and School friendships will last. I know I have more than has made my senior year so much more enjoy- throughout the year. Speaking with students unteer for a workshop. A girl in my workshop other committee members have improved the In my time as a member of the SAC, I have enjoyed and learned from the Student Advi- able. It is truly humbling being part of such a who care about the future of athletic programs came up to me and said she remembered me skills of other kids within the MIAA. Being grown incredibly as both a leader and person. sory Committee and I cannot wait until next dynamic group of students and knowing that and leadership is exciting because last July I from the year before as a delegate, and that it the student voice to the association has been Particularly this year, in serving as the Vice year starts to do more of what I did this year. my input is heard and considered by my peers was participating and now I am leading. There was amazing that I was back and helping to a great honor, and I have done it with a great Chair, I was able to take on a leadership po- Make a difference. and the MIAA. From our very first orientation could have been someone in my small group run the conference. It was a surreal experience, group of kids. Everyone on the committee sition among a group of leaders, a challenge day to now, the group has come so far. We are that, like me, did not know about the Student and really made me appreciate how much I’ve has the same goals and feels the same about I looked forward to. I enjoyed participating Bridget Towle, Bedford High School not just students from across the state that Advisory Committee until they attended an grown. Overall the Student Advisory Com- the leadership role, which is refreshing for in many of the same activities as last year, but Being selected to be part of the 2014-2015 meet monthly; we are a close-knit group of MIAA event, and they could find themselves mittee has been an amazing opportunity. I kids coming from a high school environment this time with a new perspective as someone Student Advisory Committee was an honor. leaders who want the best for the MIAA and on the committee for next year. feel confident that the leadership skills I’ve where that may not always be the case. I will who had experienced it before. I believe that Knowing that I, alongside my other committee the students of Massachusetts. If I were not part of the committee, I would learned will be beneficial to me in my future. 10 Building the Future Summer 2015 Building the Future Summer 2015 11 Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association 33 Forge Parkway Franklin, MA 02038

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

June 15, 2015 Looking ahead...save the date... CPR Workshop details soon! 8:30am—4:00pm August 20, 2015 June 22, 2015 Captains Workshop NESLC Orientation Time 5:00pm—7:00pm September 25, 2015 So You’re a Leader...Now What?! June 24, 2015 Leadership 101 NESLC Orientation Wellness Workshop Time 5:00pm—7:00pm October 7, 2015 November 20, 2015 Sportsmanship Summit July 28, 2015 Wellness Workshop MIAA Rules Clinic @Gillette Stadium Orientation/Induction Workshop for October 23, 2015 Wellness Summit February 5, 2016 correction Principals and Athletic Directors Girls and Women in Sport Day @the Resort and Conference Center @Hyannis @DoubleTree Hotel, Milford noon—5:00pm @Faneuil Hall, Boston October 30, 2015 August 18, 2015 YOU LEAD MIAA Rules Clinic Wellness Workshop Orientation/Induction Workshop for Principals and Athletic Directors 9:00 am—2:00pm

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12 Building the Future Summer 2015