2024 SPAL Summit Recap
Choosing Your Path to Excellence, the inaugural event hosted by the Sports Performance & Leadership Summit, was a success! There were student athletes present from seven area high schools and a range of sports were represented, including cross country, swimming, soccer, basketball and gymnastics. Despite a snafu with lighting, attendees were wowed with front row seats in the McCarthy Athletic Center during our keynote presentations and treated to a behind-the-scenes tour around the hallowed halls of the basketball stadium.
We got to hear from legendary local high school coaches, Mike McKenna and Jeanne Helfer. Stacy Klinesmith and Mike Nilson spoke on behalf of college coaching staffs on how to be a good teammate and the 3 Levels of Leadership, respectively. And our slam bang finish was with Derek Waldeck, defender for USL Spokane Velocity, who shared his journey and experiences from being team captain at Stanford to having a professional soccer career.
The smaller breakout sessions were the fan favorites of the event with more hands on activities in smaller groups. Student athletes were lead through meditation exercises to help with the pressures of sport, educated on proper nutrition and dietary needs, and instructed on how to avoid overuse injuries. Our team of experts were able to have intimate conversations and answer candid questions during this time.
We are busy planning the event for 2025 with the hope of increasing attendance and expanding our offering to high school coaches. Making change is easier with support and what better group to hold each other accountable than a sports team and coaching staff? Let’s continue to promote excellence in sport, not just winning, but performance, leadership, sound mind and healthy body. We are looking forward to seeing you all next year!
Your hosts of Choosing Your Path to Excellence with former Stanford Men’s Soccer Captain and current USL Spokane Velocity Defender. From right to left, Dr. Laura Fralich, Derek Waldeck and Erin LaHonta.
Max Manix leading a breakout session on mental health.
High school students lining up to talk to Mike Nilson after his presentation on the 3 Levels of Leadership.
Mike McKenna and Jeanne Helfer discussing their experiences as high school coaches and what they’ve seen in some of their best and most successful athletes.
Stacy Klinesmith giving the inside scoop on what collegiate level coaches are looking for in an athlete and a teammate.
Nutrition knowledge being dropped by Amy Yeoman focusing on hydration and proper fueling for athletes.
Jessica Jewell educating our student athletes on how to stay injury free.