Honorees, their loved ones,

Franklin HS wins Battle of Fans Teen Mental Health Can you hear Rattle City? p.4 What can two Associations do? p.5 GWS Day 2015 Lois Dwira rang it...
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Franklin HS wins Battle of Fans

Teen Mental Health

Can you hear Rattle City? p.4

What can two Associations do? p.5

GWS Day 2015 Lois Dwira rang it in with the National Anthem, 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

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onorees, their loved ones, and guests gathered in the early evening of May 28th for the 2015 MIAA Coach of the Year and Student-Athlete of the Month Banquet at the MIAA Office in Franklin. Photos were taken during the reception hour, and then the group moved to the conference rooms for dinner, speeches and awards. After-dinner speeches covered the meaning and impact of the two awards. Guest Speaker Mia Natale, a 2014 graduate of Westborough High School who had served as chair of the MIAA Student Advisory Committee during her senior year, talked about her transition from high school to college and how athletics impacted it. Claude Valle of Weston High School, MIAA Swimming and Diving Coach of the Year 2014

Sarah Lambert of Hopedale Junior/Senior High School, center, poses with MIAA Associate Director Peter Smith, left, and Assistant Director Dick Baker, right. Sarah was one of 16 Massachusetts student-athletes to receive the Student-Athlete of the Month designation during the 2014—15 school year.

and NFHS National Coach of the Year 2014—15, spoke on mentoring. He highlighted his relationship with his own mentor, Peter Foley, having previous-

ly served under him as Assistant

LEADERSHIP Coach at Weston. Coincidentally, Foley was in the audience with

The 22nd Annual MIAA Sportsmanship Summit won’t happen until Friday, November 20, 2015 at Gillette Stadium (mark your calendars!), but the

Sportsmanship Essay/ Multimedia Contest is open now. The theme for this year’s contest is: “Paying forward…How an act of Sportsmanship made a difference in your life.”

The 2014—15 Student-Athlete of the Month awardees are: September: Cassandra Carreiro, Attleboro High School, Field Hockey Jamison Koeman, Whitinsville Christian School, Cross Country and Track continued on page 2

Educational Athletics Briefs Essay Contest Open

another mentee, David Chaplin of Milford High School. The MIAA Student-Athlete of the Month Award is presented on a monthly basis, September through April, to recognize one male and one female student-athlete at MIAA member schools who excel in the classroom, during competition, and as good citizens in the community. Nominations are accepted from school principals, athletic directors, teachers, coaches, guidance counselors, or other school administrators.

First Place ($400) and RunnerUp ($200) prizes will be awarded in each category (Literary and Multimedia). Contest award recipients will be honored during the summit. For details, check out

the Sportsmanship page at www.miaa.net; follow the Educational Athletics tab to Sportsmanship in the drop-down menu. continued on page 2

In our member schools The Blue Hills boys’ and girls’ basketball teams and head coaches Brian Gearty and Thomas McGrath participated in the American Cancer Society’s Coaches vs. Cancer program this season. The teams began their fundraising in December, after the coaches received a letter from Boston Celtics coach Brad Stevens, encouraging teams throughout the state to support this worthy cause. The teams began selling Wall of Hope cards in school and a bulletin board was set up in the lobby outside the gymnasium to display messages of hope to friends and loved ones affected by cancer. Soon the board was covered with cards; by the end of their fundraising efforts, the teams combined to raise over $2,100 to support the American Cancer Society and its life-saving research, programs and services for cancer patients and their families.“Blue Hills is a very proud community,” said Ed Catabia, “and as the Athletic Director, I am very proud of our coaches, their accomplishment, and our student athletes.” Coaches vs. Cancer empowers coaches of all sports, their teams, and local communities to make a difference in the fight against cancer. For more information, contact Greg McKeever, Community Manager at the American Cancer Society for Coaches vs. Cancer at greg.mckeever@cancer. org or 508-270-4823.

Coaches and Students Honored continued from page 1 October Sarah Lambert, Hopedale Junior/Senior High School, Soccer Benjamin Bichet, Manchester Essex Regional High School, Golf November Lauren D’Entremont, North Andover High School, Swimming & Diving, Softball Ryan Dahlgren, Milford High School, Golf and Lacrosse December Francesca Pinard, Matignon High School, Cross Country and Basketball Yannis Halkiadakis, North Middlesex Regional High School, Football and Indoor Track January Makenzie Cyr, Douglas High School, Cross Country, Indoor and Outdoor Track Owen Hunter, Monument Mountain Regional High School, Golf February Margot Rice, Barnstable High School, Soccer, Basketball, Lacrosse Josiah Douglass, Chicopee Comprehensive High School, Indoor Track Frank Ferreer, Girls Basketball Coach March at Assabet Valley Regional Technical Megan Cook, Lee High School receives his Coach of Middle and High School, the Year plaque from MIAA Assistant Soccer, Track & Field Director Dick Baker as Associate Frank Roche, ArDirector Peter Smith looks on. lington High School, Football, Basketball and Baseball April Jennifer Lee, Woburn Memorial High School, Basketball, Softball, Indoor Track, and Soccer, Jeffrey Pullano, Wahconah Regional High School, Soccer, Basketball and Outdoor Track The MIAA Coach of the Year Award seeks to recognize and honor “teacher-coaches” who have had an impact on the lives of student-athletes by encouraging them to succeed and by helping them develop self-confidence, ambition, a sound work ethic, and other skills or values necessary or helpful for success in their later lives.

2  Building the Future Summer 2015

The 2014—15 Coach of the Year awardees are: Alpine Ski (Boys & Girls) Samantha Martyn, Needham High School Baseball David Wilbur, Beverly High School Basketball (Girls) Frank Ferreer, Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School Field Hockey Jaime Mariani, Nashoba Regional High School Football Peter Afanasiw, Cohasset Middle-High School Ice Hockey (Boys) Chris Spillane, Franklin High School Lacrosse Nathan Skermont, Shrewsbury High School Soccer (Boys) Fran Bositis, Franklin High School Soccer (Girls) Tom Geysen, Franklin High School Softball Brian McGan, Hampshire Regional High School Swimming and Diving (Boys) David Chaplin, Milford High School Swimming and Diving (Girls) Marilyn Fitzgerald, Andover High School Tennis (Boys) Michael Wartman, Andover High School Volleyball (Girls) Margie Grabmeier, Hopkinton High School Volleyball (Boys) Linda Zacchilli, Milford High School Wrestling Manny Costa, Saint John’s Preparatory School

MIAA Citizenship Days promote Community Service

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IAA Citizenship Days at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield (Districts F & G; April 10) and Northeastern University in Boston (Districts A, B, C, D, E & H; April 14) applauded individuals, teams and school clubs/organizations for outstanding Community Service efforts during the previous year. MIAA member school administrators are

COMMUNITY SERVICE encouraged to nominate individuals, teams and clubs/organizations from their schools for these annual honors. Look for nomination forms this winter. For a complete list of the award winners, please visit www.miaa.net under Educational Athletics.

Representatives from the Skills USA Program from Lynn Vocational Technical Institute accept the MIAA Community Service Award in the Club/Organization Category on behalf of their organization at Citizenship Day 2015 ceremonies at Northeastern University on April 14. Skills USA is active in the Lynn Community; they have worked with the Fire Department to renovate areas in town, supported various projects to benefit homeless people, ease hunger and support the elderly.

Celebrity Golf Tournament

endowment

The MIAA Endowment Fund helps to preserve and create educational opportunities for Student-Athletes Where: Plymouth Country Club, 221 Warren Avenue, Plymouth MA When: August 10, 2015

Registration begins at 11:00 am; Shotgun Scramble at noon Cost: $175 per golfer w/cart; $700 per foursome; $1,000 per threesome + celebrity All of the above includes Lunch, Dinner, Gifts and Prizes Celebrities may include Andy Brickley, Bob Lobel, Steve Burton, Jackie MacMullan and Doug Flutie Registration form available at www.miaa.net; please register early as space is limited; payment in full is due by July 17

The MIAA Office hallway was transformed for the May 28th evening reception. Before the banquet began Grynn and Barrett Studios photographed honorees and families.

Building the Future

Summer 2015

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Bruins partner with MIAA to honor student-athletes

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or the 13th consecutive year, the MIAA and Boston Bruins have partnered to honor a student-athlete from boys and girls high school ice hockey leagues across the state for best exemplifying a commitment to the ideals of sportsmanship throughout the season. These student-athletes were selected by representatives of their league according

SEMGHL/Coastal, Madison Scavotto, Falmouth High School SEMGHL/Northeast, Kathryn Jacobson, King Philip Regional High School SEMGHL/Southeast, Emilie Peavey, Marshfield High School SEMGHL/West, Lauren Tschirch, Medfield High School

to the following award criteria: An exemplary record of complying, both in spirit and letter, with all league and MIAA rules and regulations during the season. A demonstrated record of respectfully accepting the rulings of game officials. A record of conduct, on and off the ice

BOYS LEAGUES Bay State Conference, Ron Pucci, Dedham High School Big Three, Stephen Ulich, Brockton High School Boston City League, Thomas Guarino, East Boston High School Catholic Central League/Large, Paul Frisoli, Arlington Catholic High School Catholic Central League/Small, Alexi Afanasiev, Saint Joseph Preparatory High School Commonwealth Athletic Conference, Jake Towski, Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School

SPORTSMANSHIP that brings honor to self, team, school, and community. A commitment to teamwork by providing all members with recognition of their talents, an opportunity to contribute them to the team, and a spirit of camaraderie. A demonstrated respect for opponents before, during, and after games. The recipients of the 2015 Boston Bruins-MIAA Sportsmanship Awards are listed below. These student-athletes were honored on Tuesday, March 31, 2015 at the TD Garden during the first intermission of the Boston Bruins game against the Florida Panthers. GIRLS LEAGUES Bay State Conference, Sarah Goss, Wellesley High School Catholic Conference, Emily Brooks, Notre Dame Academy (Hingham) Catholic Central League, Lexi McNeil, St. Mary’s High School (Lynn) MVC/DCL/Large, Kerry Pouliot, Littleton High School MVC/DCL/Small, Ali Longmoore, Waltham High School Middlesex League, Ali O’Leary, Reading Memorial High School Northeastern Conference, Adrienne Porrazzo, Medford High School

Coughlin Conference, Dan Baldino, Ayer-Shirley High School Fay-Wright Division, Brian Turnbull, Chicopee High School Greater Boston League, Andrew Cronin, Medford High School Hennessey League, Jenny Dunn, Lee Middle and High School

Conference faces issues around Teen Mental Health MIAA and its sister organization, MSSAA (Massachusetts Secondary School Administrators’ Association), pooled resources to

WELLNESS confront the complex problems around adolescent mental health at a joint conference April 8 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Milford,

4  Building the Future Summer 2015

Hockomock League, Griffin Lynch, Milford High School Mayflower League, Jay Silva, Diman Regional Vocational/Technical High School MVC/DCL/Division 1, Patrick Couillard, Chelmsford High School MVC/DCL/Division 2, Myles Cohen, Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School MVC/DCL/Division 3, Aidan Conlon, Lowell High School Middlesex League, Sean Verrier, Reading Memorial High School Tri-Valley League, Michael Messier, Hopkinton High School

member schools to attend in an email, saying: “This program will allow you to engage in learning, dialogue, and reflection on these important issues related to student wellness.” MSSAA President Dana F. Brown, Principal of Malden High School, likewise addressed his Association, reminding them that they had set

One of the workshop sessions featured teens from Massachusetts high schools who are working with the Interact Club, sponsored by Rotary International, to provide peer training and peer mentoring focused on stress/depression/ suicide prevention.

MA. The event drew more than 300 participants. MIAA President Keith Crowley, Principal of St. John’s Preparatory School in Danvers, urged

Adolescent Wellness as a priority at their Annual Convocation in September of 2014. Both Associations were well represented at the event.

The Following dates for the “Fundamentals of Coaching” class have been scheduled:

BATTLE

The Franklin High School spirit squad “Rattle City” accepts its firstplace award in the MIAA inaugural “Battle of the Fans” contest. Teams produced videos to capture their schools’ spirit, and winners were chosen by the MIAA Sportsmanship Committee. Second place went to South Hadley High School and third place to Hopedale Junior/Senior High School.

June 13, 2015: Malden High School , 8am—noon June 15, 2015: Sandwich High School, 4pm—8pm June 18, 2015: Andover High School, 4pm—8pm June 20, 2015: Lowell High School, 8am—noon June 20, 2015: Bishop Stang High School, 9am—1pm Anyone interested in attending these classes should sign up at http://www.miaa.net/miaa/conferences. Classes are listed individually for registration.

Karen Nardone, MIAA Wellnesss Coordinator, who planned the event with her assistant Carolyn Bohmiller and Cora Armenio of the MSSAA Staff was pleased. “I was amazed at the turnout. The caliber of speakers and their presentations were top notch. The student groups that presented were particularly impressive,” she said. The day’s program featured a general session with keynote, two concurrent workshop sessions, a luncheon and a panel presentation. Keynote Speaker Dr. Larry Berkowitz, Director and Co-Founder of the Riverside Trauma Center in Needham and Clinical Instructor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School addressed depression and suicide and presented some disturbing facts, including that suicide is the leading cause of death among adolescents, with thousands of incidents occurring nationally each year. Dr. Berkowitz’ slides showed the possible causal factors for depression and suicide that demonstrated the complexity of the task

munity (a panel of experts and students); “postvention” (Dr. Berkowitz); suicide prevention programming (Meghan Diamon, MSW, LCSW), and life-coaching for adults who work with all types of students (Jeff Levin). The second session offered sessions on suicide from a father’s perspective (Steve Boczenowski); working with transgender youth (PFLAG); suicide prevention (Lauren Gablinske); depression, (Molly Jordan and Vanessa Prosper, Ph.D.); trauma (Joanna Bridger, LICSW), and meditation (Helen Rainoff). The after-lunch panel included John D’Auria, Ed.D. President of TEACHERS 21; Bill Chaplin, Assistant Principal at King Philip Regional High School;Steve Boczenowski of Teenage Anxiety and Depression Solutions (TADS); Kyrah Altman of Let’s Empower and Do (LEAD), and Nathan Chiu, a student at Wellesley High School. “At the end of the day, many attendees spoke with me about the need for a ‘next-step’ conference, to learn more about implementing

Conference participants shared their thoughts and reflections on the issues surrounding teen mental health and suicide prevention. The poster was displayed in the venue hallway near the conference exhibitors’ tables.

of suicide prevention. The stark and disturbing nature of his presentation was underscored by the audience’s stillness and rapt attention. The first set of concurrent workshops featured sessions on students with anxiety-related and oppositional behavior (Jessica Minahan, M.Ed., BCBA); mental health and wellness in the com-

programming in their schools.,” Nardone said. “The MIAA, MSSAA, and DESE will be meeting to clarify requirements under the new legislation and to plan workshops and training programs for 2015–16. “Please keep checking our websites, and we will send out information, with dates, in the fall,” she added.

Building the Future

Summer 2015

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Massachusetts Female Athletes celebrate Girls and Women in Sport Day

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taging this year’s Massachusetts Celebration of National Girls and Women in Sports Day was a challenge; the date was moved twice “due to inclement weather,” the catchphrase of the Winter of 2015. When the female athletes and their mentors and advocates finally gathered on April 3 at the Great Hall at Faneuil Hall in Boston spring fever was in the air, and the enthusiasm was palpable. Lois Dwira of Worcester Technical High School opened the ceremonies with the National Anthem. MIAA Associate Director Sherry Bryant joined Marcia Crooks of the New Agenda: Northeast and Ali Rheahume of the Massachusetts Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance in welcoming the athletes and their families and supporters, and Vicky Caburian of Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School read the Gubernatorial Proclamation. After the awards were conferred (see green inset box for awardees), Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey gave the keynote

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Molly Brogie, Sutton High School; Chair, Student Advisory Committee

First Place: Sarah Dunne, Peabody Veterans Memorial High School Second Place: Lily Stewart, Ipswich High School Third Place: Emily Rodricks, Sturgis Charter Public School East

Massachusetts Women in Athletics Distinguished Service Award 2015 Presenter: Honorees:

Mary Ryan, Rockport Middle/High School Tanya Sullivan, Middleborough High School Mary Lou Thimas, Coach, Administrator, Official and Women’s Athletics Advocate

“Looking out at your faces gives me such hope...it gives me such inspiration for all that is ahead, not just for Massachusetts, but for our country...so stay at it, be BOLD, be BRAVE, be yourselves and never let anyone or anything get in the way of your goals or your dreams or your belief in you, because at the end of the day you can do, you can be, anything you want to be.” After Healey’s address, the two honored ath-

he enthusiastic chorus of “Good Morning!” from over 150 excited middle school student and adult leaders from five Springfield-area middle schools began an amazing day-long YOU LEAD Conference at Springfield Technical Community College on Friday, May 29. Sponsored by Attorney General Maura Healey, the conference featured discussions and activities focused on opioid and substance abuse prevention, as well as leadership, being a positive influence and making healthy life choices. Hampden County District Attorney Anthony Gulluni spoke to the group, encouraging them to make good choices, do well in school and be appropriate role models for their peers. The Attorney General talked about her agency’s role in promoting safety, and protecting our rights. She then turned to the students, asking them for their advice about issues that concern them and what her office could do to help. Their responses were honest and heartfelt. One student expressed concern over the amount of drugs and alcohol in her neighborhood. Another mentioned the filth and litter in his, while another spoke about the bullying he sees in his school. Yet another, stated that he wished that when he walked down the street, that people didn’t lock their doors when they see him. Ms. Healey told them that she would be working on these issues and would come back to them in a year to see how they thought she was doing to address their concerns. YOU LEAD Program Trainers Tom Hermanowski and Jill Leach led the students in a number of thought-provoking and fun ice-breakers, energizers and team-building activities. During the conference, students and their adult advisors networked with their peers, learned about what other schools are doing to address leadership and substance abuse prevention, and examined their own values and choices. During the afternoon

WELLNESS

Naomi Martin, Athletic Director, Lexington High School

LEADERSHIP address. Healey, who was captain of the Harvard Women’s Basketball Team before graduating in 1992, said:

Attorney General sponsors YOU LEAD program on May 29 to serve Springfield Area

Girls and Women in Sport Essay Contest Winners 2015 Presenter:

Wellness news, highlights and previews

letes from participating schools marched across the historical stage, received their certificates and were photographed, and Quincy native and All-American Girls Professional Baseball Alumna Mary Pratt, sang and presided over the raffle.

Lois Dwira of Worcester Technical High School started the ceremony with her amazing rendition of the Star Spangled Banner .

For a video with the day’s highlights, visit: https://vimeo.com/125499482.

Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey, works with a breakout group at the Springfield area YOU LEAD program May 29.

MIAA March Captains Workshop draws record numbers

T Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey, center, was the keynote speaker at the Massachusetts Celebration of National Girls and Women in Sport Day held April 3, 2015 at Faneuil Hall, Boston. She is shown here with MIAA Student Advisory Committee members Catherine McNamara of Wellesley High School, left, and Molly Brogie of Sutton High School, right. Healey’s speech focused on the role sports participation played in her own development and the gifts and talent the young women gathered will bring to Massachusetts and the nation.

6  Building the Future Summer 2015

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. Featured 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 Trainings™, on “Goal Setting and Action Planning.” Members of the Student Advisory Committee led breakout groups discussing “Teamwork and Leadership.” “The numbers of captains that attended would indicate that more and more coaches and administrators realize the difference that good leadership can make,” said Switchenko. Captains workshops are held three times a year, one at the beginning of each sports season. Schools frequently send teams of captains and their adult leaders. Tentative dates for the 2015—16 school year are August 20, December 11 and March 15. Principals and Athletic Directors will receive emails as those dates approach, and the MIAA website, www.miaa.net, will post registration opportunities. Please watch for these announcements and register early, since these popular programs fill quickly.

session, each school created an action plan for a drug-free program or activity that they would like to implement in their schools. “It was a great day!” was the resounding refrain echoed at the end of the day. The MIAA is grateful to DA Gulluni and AG Healey for their commitment to opioid and substance abuse prevention. The MIAA would like to thank AG Healey and her staff for sponsoring the conference and for their support and assistance. The MIAA would also like to thank Springfield Technical Community College, Sodexo, and Dominos Pizza, for their generosity and kindness. To learn more about the YOU LEAD program and conference schedule, or to host a conference in your area, please contact Karen Nardone, YOU LEAD Program Coordinator at 508-541-7997 or by email at [email protected]. Please visit our website regularly for updates www.miaa.net and click on the YOU LEAD logo.

Building the Future

Summer 2015

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Intersections

INTERsections

Academics

Leadership Life

Wellness

constituents reflect on the many intersecting facets of MIAA educational athletics

by Peter Smith MIAA Associate Director and members of the Student Advisory Committee

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he “Intersections” portion of this newsletter provides the reflections of individuals regarding various aspects of MIAA Educational Athletics programming. As the 2014-15 school year comes to an end, the members of the MIAA Student Advisory Committee were asked to reflect on their experiences. This outstanding group of student leaders attended the New England Student Leadership Conference (NESLC) in July 2014 and were selected for participation on the committee through an application and interview process in August. Over the past year they have met on a regular basis to facilitate student leadership workshops, speak at special events, plan educational athletic initiatives and provide feedback from a student perspective. Below are their thoughts regarding the opportunity to serve on this committee. Markus Bohmiller, Franklin High School Before attending NESLC 2014, I had no knowledge of the Student Advisory Committee, and therefore no intention of applying. That all changed after going to NESLC. I was informed of the committee and what they do and it sounded like something that would be right up my alley, so I applied, and I’m happy I did because it has been a great experience. I knew I was going to enjoy being on the committee after the first team-building day where everyone came together for the first time and within a single afternoon, we had all become friends. We have all grown very close, even though we only see each other approximately once a month. It’s truly been a privilege to be a member of a such a select group and I will undoubtedly continue to use the skills that I’ve learned as a member of the 2014-2015 Student Advisory Committee.

Molly Brogie, Sutton High School High School students tend to think of the MIAA as a rule-making entity, as nothing but the organization that designs tournaments and delivers discipline. I have spent two years as a member of the Student Advisory Committee, and over this time I have experienced all of the other facets to the MIAA. I was never aware of how many resources were available to me and my school through the MIAA, and I consider myself lucky to have been exposed to them. Being a member of the committee has been extraordinarily fun; I’ve made really good friends, and I’ve enjoyed the phenomenal pizza at our events. It has also been an eye-opening experience. My participation in facilitating captains workshops and in presenting to other committees within the organization has shown me that I am capable of much more than I ever realized. My experience on the committee has been a defining part of my high school career—I even wrote my college essay on how this opportunity has changed me. I would not trade all that I have learned and the friends I have made on this committee for the world. Savannah Bynum, Central Catholic High School I am a non-athlete… there I said it!! And, while this is not something you would expect to find on this page, just being ON this page should prove that anything is possible!! I didn’t know much about the MIAA, let alone the NESLC, until a friend recommended I apply. I did, I got in, and went to one of the most life-changing events of my high school career. Since I am not an athlete, I had quite a bit of fear that I would be judged as an outcast, or worse, weird for even wanting to attend. I could not have been more wrong. The NESLC was truly one of the best experiences of my life, and, as such, I wanted to take a more significant role and applied for one of the 16 coveted spots on the Student Advisory Committee (SAC). continued on page 9

8  Building the Future Summer 2015

The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association encourages its member schools to teach Educational Athletics through the following five pillars:

Wellness: to empower students to make healthy life choices Sportsmanship: to teach respect for self, team, opponents, officials, rules, and the game itself Coaches’ Education: to provide resources for teacher-coaches who serve as curriculum instructors of educational athletics Leadership: to promote the power of positive influence that student athletes and teacher-coaches share as role models Community Service: to recognize the privilege of athletic participation and the responsibility of giving back to the community

Building the Future is the Educational Athletics newsletter of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association. It is published four times per year. Editorial Staff: Peter Smith MIAA Associate Director Linda Taylor MIAA Support Staff

continued from page 8 I was interested in becoming a member of the MIAA Student Advisory Committee because I feel I bring unique experiences and perspectives to the Committee, yet share a common passion for helping our schools and communities. As a non-athlete with significant leadership experience, I feel I have made the same impact on those around me as student-athletes who serve as a role model to other students. I choose to be a positive role model to those around me. I choose to step up and be part of something larger than myself, and strive to make a difference. I am happy and proud to say that my leadership experience and qualifications allowed me entrance into this prestigious and talented group of young leaders, and it is my sincere hope that I have blazed a trail for others to come after me. I look back at the doubts and fears I had about fitting in, and now I laugh…the other 15 members are my best friends and, though they joke about my lack of athletic ability, I know they support and respect me, and acknowledge my point-of-view. Xavier Dillingham, Silver Lake Regional High School This past year as a member of the MIAA Student Advisory Committee has been an incredible experience. Looking back, I have grown so much as a leader and a great deal is due to the time I have spent on the Advisory Committee. Here, I have learned even more what it means to be a leader and the importance of it. This experience means so much to me because I know that I will be able to take the knowledge and experience that I have learned here and take it with me throughout life and apply it to all aspects. I cannot thank the MIAA enough for giving me this incredible opportunity to better myself as a leader, and I know that I will take what I have learned here and continue to become a better leader and a better person. Nick Fantasia, Billerica Memorial High School Over the past few months, I have had the opportunity to be apart of the life-changing MIAA Student Advisory Committee. Being a part of the SAC was one of the best experiences of my life. I have really had the chance to see myself grow as a captain, leader, and, most of all, a person. It has been such an honor to say that I represent the athletes from all across the state of Massachusetts. Not only do I set myself up as a role model for students across

Massachusetts, but more importantly for my school. I’m not held to a higher standard in the buildings of Billerica Memorial High School, but I hold myself to a higher standard because of how much I have matured with my experiences on the SAC. Being able to go to all the different leadership conferences with these kids in the Blue Polos—to have said I was a part of the MIAA SAC for the 2014-2015 school year—is really such a tremendous honor. Over this past year, the members on the committee have grown very close together. The thing I like the best about being on the committee is how I represent my school and more importantly my family and athletic director. Being able to say I am/was one out of over 200,000 student athletes who was chosen for this committee is a feeling I will never forOur ideas as individuals and as a group held weight among groups much older, qualified, and experienced than us. My experiences with the MIAA have shown me that this organization works diligently to do the greatest good, and values the students.

—PJ Kendall Groton-Dunstable Regional High School get. It sets the tone for me to be the influence behind leadership, encouraging other to be a good teammate/person, to just have fun, and to try something new that is uncomfortable. It’s something I like to call “stepping out of the box and capitalizing on the opportunities that lie right in front of your eyes.” This is only a brief summary of what it was like and what it meant to me to serve on this years MIAA SAC. Brook Hansel, Lunenburg High School As a Student Advisory Committee (SAC) member, my most rewarding role has been helping to facilitate captains workshops. Originally, I thought I’d be sharing different leadership skills with the students attending the workshops, which I have certainly had many opportunities throughout the year to do. However, as I look back on the year, I am amazed at how much further I, myself, have developed as a leader by having the opportunity to help lead these workshops. Whether it has been learning how to engage more participants in sharing their opinion or learning how to speak with confidence in front of both small and large groups, I grew with each workshop I led. I feel

honored and privileged to have worked with and shared ideas with the amazing student leaders on the SAC and also student leaders from across Massachusetts. My experiences as a SAC member have helped me understand more fully how important student leadership is in our schools and communities. Conrad Joyal, Longmeadow High School The MIAA Student Advisory Committee has been one of the most positive experiences I’ve had in my high school career. It has allowed me to grow as a person and develop my leadership skills, like public speaking and facilitating groups of people. I have made life-long friends and meet many new and great people. It has given me the opportunity to attend different workshops and meetings, such as the Sportsmanship Summit at Gillette Stadium, the MIAA’s Annual Meeting, and captains workshops. Overall, the MIAA Student Advisory Committee has been a wonderful period of my life and I am truly thankful for it. I will remember this past year forever. PJ Kendall, Groton-Dunstable Regional High School I learned of the committee at the New England Student Leadership Conference. When I applied, I had only a faint idea of my role, and a hope that I would be selected. One morning after my interview I woke up to an email I received on my phone congratulating me on becoming a member of the Student Advisory Committee. I somehow deleted this email in my drowsy stupor so that when I attempted to show my parents, there was no sign I had been selected. I panicked fearing I had dreamt of being chosen until my father checked the trash bin on my cellphone, and found the email I had deleted earlier that morning. I was elated to be chosen, and curious about what I would be doing. In my time on SAC I was most surprised by the influence I had as a member of the committee, and the respect I received from administrators, coaches, and adults that I interacted with at summits, meetings, and my own school. Our ideas as individuals and as a group held weight among groups much older, qualified, and experienced than us. My experiences with the MIAA have shown me that this organization works diligently to do the greatest good, and values the students. Tyler Keohan, Acton-Boxborough Regional High School If you ask me for my biggest regret in High continued on page 10

Building the Future

Summer 2015

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Intersections

continued from page 9 School thus far, I’m proud to say that it was taking a macro-economics class (I have decided that I am not going to go near any career that requires me to take another economics course). I almost did not apply for the Student Advisory Committee at the end of my sophomore year. I was turned onto NESLC from my dear friend and basketball captain Becca Shamah on the bus ride home from the worst game (so far) of my high school career. She could not have chosen a better time to clue me in: NESLC changed my outlook and attitude on sports entering my junior year, and the optimism and nuance she brought to that conversation convinced me that whatever she had learned at this NESLC was worth a shot. At the end of that year however, a broken heel and bad attitude left me doubtful that this athlete-based conference, and the Advisory Committee was something I could handle. (It turned out alright). Student Advisory Committee has opened so many doors for me both as a student athlete, a leader, and a well-rounded person. I’ve met friends that I plan on keeping around for a long time. My roommate and I from NESLC are even working out a charity volleyball game for this fall! SAC is definitely a program that forced me to push my boundaries as an individual, but with those new limits came new opportunities, such as the Sportsmanship Summit, or the Boston Children’s Hospital Female Athlete Conference, that have and will continue to push me to grow. Econ is definitely not something I enjoy in the least—but I would take it 100 times over before missing out on my opportunities and friends on the SAC! Matt LaBranche, Minnechaug Regional High School The 2014-2015 SAC has been an incredible experience. I went from not being that interested in applying to being set on being selected for it very quickly during my time at NESLC, and it has been extremely rewarding. Not only have I been able to improve my leadership skills, but I’ve seen how I and other committee members have improved the skills of other kids within the MIAA. Being the student voice to the association has been a great honor, and I have done it with a great group of kids. Everyone on the committee has the same goals and feels the same about the leadership role, which is refreshing for kids coming from a high school environment where that may not always be the case. I will

always be grateful for the opportunity to lead and to do so with peers who feel the same way. Brett Mazur, King Philip Regional High School As a first-year and the youngest member of the MIAA Student Advisory Committee, I have to say that the experience was intimidating at first but has become life-changing. When I came to the committee, I was quiet at first and slowly began to work my way into the group and express all my leadership qualities. However, I learned very quickly that with many students on the committee being student athletes I could relate very well and we all shared common beliefs and goals. This experience has helped me be more outgoing, come out of my shell and make many new friends from across the state. As a part of the SAC, we have been able to interact with and learn from so many great leaders that influenced and motivated us to be proactive and get other student athletes at our schools involved locally. This enabled us a committee to impact our community and spread leadership throughout the state by doing captains workshops, leadership seminars, and summer conferences. You cannot find a better leadership opportunity than the SAC Committee or better instructors than Peter Smith and Naomi Martin. The MIAA Student Advisory Committee has been one of the best experiences in my My time on the Committee has made me more confident, outgoing, thoughtful, and appreciative of the MIAA and all that it does for the student-athletes of Massachusetts.

—Catherine McNamara Wellesley High School life as it changed the way I interact with my peers, community and express my leadership qualities. Thank you again for the opportunity. Catherine McNamara, Wellesley High School In my time as a member of the SAC, I have grown incredibly as both a leader and person. Particularly this year, in serving as the Vice Chair, I was able to take on a leadership position among a group of leaders, a challenge I looked forward to. I enjoyed participating in many of the same activities as last year, but this time with a new perspective as someone who had experienced it before. I believe that

10  Building the Future Summer 2015

serving two years on the Committee helped me to develop fully as a leader, facilitator, and captain. In my time with the Committee, the most impactful thing I have done was speak at the Stand Up to Bullying Rally at the DCU Center in front of 3,000 people. Speaking in front of so many of my peers, especially on such an important topic, helped me to develop confidence in my abilities as a leader; I now welcome the opportunity to speak in pubic, whereas before I may have been hesitant to speak in front of others. Ultimately, I believe the Committee is an incredible opportunity for driven student-athletes to develop their leadership skills at a high level. The students on the Committee come in as leaders, but, by June, they are exceptional at facilitating conversations among their peers. My time on the Committee has made me more confident, outgoing, thoughtful, and appreciative of the MIAA and all that it does for the student-athletes of Massachusetts. Kyle Morris, Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical High School Before I joined the SAC (Student Advisory Committee) I had no clue what the SAC was or that it even existed. About one hour into the first day I was at NESLC 2014 one of the current members of the committee told me that I should think about joining. After asking a couple of other current members and faculty about what it was like I decided to submit my application, even though I was still a little skeptical about it. That was one of the best decisions I ever made. If you join this committee you can actually make a difference and you’re voice can be heard. I personally never thought that my opinion or ideas could ever really become anything but they have. If you are on the fence about applying or have never even heard of the SAC, trust me you will want to learn more and apply! The people you meet, the opportunities you are given, and the things you can create will amaze you, I know they have amazed me. Plus the other members on the committee are nothing less than fantastic! You meet people from all around Massachusetts and you make friendships will last. I know I have more than enjoyed and learned from the Student Advisory Committee and I cannot wait until next year starts to do more of what I did this year. Make a difference. Bridget Towle, Bedford High School Being selected to be part of the 2014-2015 Student Advisory Committee was an honor. Knowing that I, alongside my other committee

Preparations wrap up for New England Student Leadership Conference

E

ach summer, student-athletes and school activities participants from MIAA member schools have the unique opportunity to network with students from Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont and New York at the annual New England Student Leadership Conference. The fifth annual event will be conducted July 14-17, 2015 at Stonehill College. The Conference Planning Team, which includes staff from MIAA, advisors from schools, Student Advisory Committee members and many others, are wrapping up their preparations for the conference. The curriculum for the conference will focus on Respect, Positive Values, Perspective, Sportsmanship, Teamwork, Healthy Lifestyles, Community Service and Self-Evaluation. These components will be presented in large and small-group sessions, led by outstanding adult and college facilitators specifically chosen for their involvement in athletics at the high school and collegiate level, and will address contemporary issues that impact a young person being a leader and role model.

members, stood out among the rest of the applicants is a huge compliment. Being part of SAC has given me the chance to meet other student athletes like me from all over Massachusetts and to become good friends with a lot of them. This experience has given me the opportunity to take a role in my own school to be a mentor and leader to others. Being part of SAC this year has been awesome, but it does come with lots of responsibility. The other members rely on one another so you always have to pull your weight. Also balancing school, sports, homework, alongside this isn’t easy. You have to be on top of your work inside and outside of school. But being able to say I’m a member of the MIAA Student Advisory Committee is well worth it. Rachael Utegg, Austin Preparatory School When my athletic director approached me about attending NESLC, I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into. At that point, I was not sure what the Student Advisory Committee was. It was not until I met people at the conference and realized our potential as a whole that I was eager to apply to be part of the committee. Being a member of the committee has made my senior year so much more enjoyable. It is truly humbling being part of such a dynamic group of students and knowing that my input is heard and considered by my peers and the MIAA. From our very first orientation day to now, the group has come so far. We are not just students from across the state that meet monthly; we are a close-knit group of leaders who want the best for the MIAA and the students of Massachusetts.

In addition to group discussion, special guest speakers will share inspirational messages, stories of overcoming adversity and utilizing the power of positive influence. The conference will also incorporate a community service project as part of the leadership training curriculum that will take place in local communities.

LEADERSHIP

Personally, the Student Advisory Committee has taught me about voicing my opinion while still listening to the ideas of others. Instead of just agreeing to all of the thoughts that are tossed around, I have learned to listen more carefully, evaluate, and try to transform an idea into a concept that the entire state could use. Many of the items that the committee puts into action are collaborative efforts that require discussion, which is one of my favorite parts of being on the committee. Each member adds something to meetings, and when we all come together and contribute to a larger concept, we all feel like we are making a difference. Although roundtable discussions are exciting, the best part of being on the committee has We are not just students from across the state that meet monthly; we are a close-knit group of leaders who want the best for the MIAA and the students of Massachusetts.

—Rachael Utegg Austin Preparatory School been meeting with students at various events throughout the year. Speaking with students who care about the future of athletic programs and leadership is exciting because last July I was participating and now I am leading. There could have been someone in my small group that, like me, did not know about the Student Advisory Committee until they attended an MIAA event, and they could find themselves on the committee for next year. If I were not part of the committee, I would

not have established the friendships that I have, voiced my opinion on pressing matters, and I definitely would not have gotten a picture with Bob Kraft. The Student Advisory Committee is something that has added so much to me, and for that I am extremely grateful. Haily Yelle, Minnechaug Regional High School For the past two years the MIAA Student Advisory Committee has been a huge part of my life. I had no idea what I was getting into when I applied for this committee, and now, as I think about the orientation next month that I walked so blindly into two years ago, I can really see what the SAC has done for me. My confidence has greatly increased. I feel surer of myself, and feel at ease talking amongst a group; likewise I feel more comfortable talking to adults. The friends and connections I’ve made are sure to last a lifetime. The most incredible part of this experience has been seeing kids my age grow as leaders. There is always so much energy and excitement at meetings and events. The enthusiasm is contagious. One of my most memorable experiences was at NESLC last summer when I was an SAC volunteer for a workshop. A girl in my workshop came up to me and said she remembered me from the year before as a delegate, and that it was amazing that I was back and helping to run the conference. It was a surreal experience, and really made me appreciate how much I’ve grown. Overall the Student Advisory Committee has been an amazing opportunity. I feel confident that the leadership skills I’ve learned will be beneficial to me in my future.

Building the Future

Summer 2015

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Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association 33 Forge Parkway Franklin, MA 02038

Upcoming Events

All events are at the MIAA Office unless otherwise indicated. Looking ahead...save the date... details soon!

June 15, 2015 CPR Workshop 8:30am—4:00pm

August 20, 2015 Captains Workshop

June 22, 2015 NESLC Orientation Time 5:00pm—7:00pm

September 25, 2015 So You’re a Leader...Now What?! Leadership 101 Wellness Workshop

June 24, 2015 NESLC Orientation Time 5:00pm—7:00pm July 28, 2015 MIAA Rules Clinic Orientation/Induction Workshop for Principals and Athletic Directors @the Resort and Conference Center @Hyannis noon—5:00pm August 18, 2015 MIAA Rules Clinic Orientation/Induction Workshop for Principals and Athletic Directors 9:00 am—2:00pm

October 7, 2015 Wellness Workshop October 23, 2015 Wellness Summit @DoubleTree Hotel, Milford

November 20, 2015 Sportsmanship Summit @Gillette Stadium February 5, 2016 correction Girls and Women in Sport Day @Faneuil Hall, Boston

October 30, 2015 YOU LEAD Wellness Workshop

Visit www.miaa.net/miaa/conferences for a complete listing of events. 12  Building the Future Summer 2015

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