Leadership Training Elevates Maryland High School Sports

A Spark That Changed the Game

Coach Joe Rydzewski, head coach of the varsity football team, saw an immediate impact when they started using Lead ‘Em Up in 2022. “It was exactly what we needed to continue building our program’s foundation,” he shared. The results? A 2023 region championship and a trip to the state semifinals for the first time in over 30 years!

More Than Just Performance

For the varsity cheerleading team, Lead ‘Em Up brought more than just better results, it strengthened the team’s confidence and relationships. “The impact went beyond performance,” said Coach Sheila Saunders. “We loved every aspect of the program and would absolutely do it again. Highly recommend!”

Transforming Teams Across the Board

Athletic Director Jesse Smith has seen firsthand how Lead ‘Em Up has helped multiple teams grow stronger together. “Teams that had been a constant issue in terms of division or lack of leadership are now leading the way for our athletics program.”

The Power of Leadership

Leadership isn’t just about skill, it’s about attitude, teamwork, and accountability. Varsity field hockey coach Catherine Miller summed it up perfectly: “Having strong teamwork is just as important as having the skills or knowledge of the game itself.”

Through Lead ‘Em Up, Winston Churchill High School has built a culture of leadership, unity, and success. As they continue to grow, their athletes are learning lessons that will stay with them far beyond the game.

Quince Orchard’s Commitment to Leadership and Culture

Quince Orchard High School thrives with leadership training, building a culture of teamwork, accountability, and success through Lead ‘Em Up.

Big News: 8 New Updates for Coaches

8 exciting updates for Coaches, including the new Leadership Tracks, exclusive exercises, teaching resources, and a change in pricing all designed to elevate your team’s leadership growth.

Podcasts

The Game of Leadership: What Coaches Really Mean by “Step Up and Lead” | The Green Room Episode 1

Coaches often say, “I need leaders to step up,” but what does that really mean? In this episode, we break down the deeper message behind this call to action. Leadership in sports isn’t just about being the loudest voice or the best player, it’s about accountability, resilience, and making those around you better. We’ll unleash a 3-step process for players to be green and build green teammates by practical insights for athletes to rise to the challenge. Whether you’re a captain, a bench player, or someone striving to lead by example, this episode will inspire you to embrace the role of a leader inside and outside the lines of the game.

Watch the video here

Good Kids are a Trap

In this episode of the Lead ‘Em Up Podcast, we explore the other side of “good.” All kids, good or bad, should receive an opportunity to raise their appetite for leadership. In fact, great leaders don’t just accept good players, they empower their good players to grow, lead, and thrive within the program. We’ll share 3 powerful reasons why coaches should go all-in on leadership development, especially when they have “good kids.” Also, we will examine a formula for good players to transition to great players. Whether you’re a head coach looking for your kids to be great or phenomenal, this episode will inspire and protect coaches from the trap of settling for “good.