GLENSIDE, Pa. - The Arcadia University Department of Athletics and Recreation has established a program called the leadership circle over the fall semester, which consists of select student-athletes from each of the Knights' 26 varsity programs.
The purpose of this program is to provide touch points that highlight leadership strategies and practices for those on teams who have a formal leadership role. Student-athletes had the opportunity to explore ideas and concepts, and individually assess how they can make them better leaders, mentors, and role models on their own teams.
"This is Arcadia's first structured leadership development program that brings student-athletes from all sport programs together to better equip them for success as leaders on and off the playing field," Coordinator of Student-Athlete Success and Leadership Oliver Moe said. "Participants have been actively engaged throughout the program, and we're excited to continue the Leadership Circle throughout the second semester."
Over the course of the fall semester, 55 student-athletes have been nominated by their coaches to participate in large group sessions every month. In these sessions, they have explored topics such as strengths-based leadership, the importance of building trust, and leading diverse teams. These were then supplemented by opportunities for participants to meet in smaller groups throughout the semester, both to leverage each other as support resources, and to explore their leadership roles on their specific teams more in-depth.
This is a yearlong program that will continue through the spring semester.
Carlos Pinga - Men's Swimming
"With everyone's schedules being so busy, taking some time to reflect on our team has been very beneficial. Despite being in the leadership circle, it has been great to see the whole team take part in this reflection process, talking about our team culture at the beginning of the season, how we have grown together since then, and where we want to be by the time championship season comes around and beyond."
Jake Varrato - Men's Soccer
"I think one of the most impactful realizations that I have had during these leadership group meetings whether they are large group or small group gatherings, is no matter how different our sports are, the way we lead and create a culture that is inclusive and successful follows the same formula. The formula for a successful leader does not really differentiate from the formula of just being a genuine, honest, hardworking person. Gaining that simple perspective for me has helped me on the field with my team's success this past season and also off the field as President of Arcadia's Student Athletic Advisory Committee. On top of that, being able to connect with other leaders of the Arcadia Student-Athlete community has been one of the best parts of this whole program too because it has brought a sense of community and friendship among us all. Together we have not only been able to make friendships, but we have been able to personally define ourselves what type of leader we want to be for our teams and in the future as well."
Madi Costigan - Softball
"The Leadership Circle is very engaging and has a lot of beneficial activities that fosters understanding and inclusion. It gives us valuable lessons that we can take to our teams to help us create a better athletics community."
Diana Perry - Women's Lacrosse
"The leadership circle has been a great way to be able to talk with other student athletes in leadership positions. We have learned about different ways to lead and support our teammates with fun activities and discussions. There has never been an opportunity like this before and I think it will benefit each team as we continue with the leadership circle."
