Growing up, my calendar was packed with practices, games, and tournaments. I wasn’t just a runner or a basketball enthusiast; I was an athlete who embraced every sport I could. From swinging bats to kicking balls, to mastering footwork on homemade obstacle courses, my childhood was a whirlwind of diverse athletic experiences. Looking back, it’s clear that playing multiple sports did more than just keep me active—it laid the foundation for my roles as a teacher, coach, and now a camp director at Winaukee.

Each sport came with a unique team dynamic. Basketball taught me the importance of working closely with others toward a common goal, while Track and Field highlighted the need for mutual respect in one-on-one competition. Playing a variety of sports introduced me to new people, many who came from different backgrounds and personalities. I learned to adapt to new team cultures, build rapport quickly, and navigate the highs and lows of collaboration. These skills have, and continue to allow me to connect with students, athletes, and campers on a personal level, fostering environments where everyone feels included and valued.

Trying different sports meant constantly stepping out of my comfort zone. Whether it was learning to pitch in baseball or trying hurdles for the first time, I faced challenges that tested my resilience. Failing—and trying again—became a natural part of my growth. These experiences built my self-assurance and showed me that perseverance leads to improvement. This confidence helped me to lead classrooms, teams, and now Winaukee, encouraging others to embrace challenges and view mistakes as stepping stones to success.

In every sport, leadership looks a little different. Sometimes it’s about motivating teammates during a grueling practice, and other times it’s about leading by example through consistent effort and sportsmanship. Playing multiple sports gave me a broader perspective on leadership styles of both teammates and coaches, which taught me how to adapt based on the needs of the group. I’ve carried those lessons forward into everyday life, striving to lead with empathy, adaptability, and a focus on empowering others to reach their potential.

Research increasingly supports the benefits of playing multiple sports, especially for young athletes. It reduces the risk of burnout, helps prevent overuse injuries, and promotes the development of a wide range of physical and mental skills. For me, these benefits extended far beyond athletic performance. They equipped me with the tools to navigate complex social situations, overcome obstacles, and inspire others—qualities we now “coach” that embody the Winaukee Way.

Camp Winaukee encourages kids to try different activities, reminding them that it’s not all about excelling in every sport but about growing through the experience. Watching them develop the same social, emotional, and leadership skills I gained is what makes Winaukee special.

In the end, playing multiple sports as a child was more than just fun; it was a transformative journey that shaped who I am today. The social connections, confidence, and leadership skills I developed continue to influence every aspect of my life. I’m grateful for the variety of sports that filled my childhood and for the lasting impact they’ve had on my ability to engage and inspire our community.