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At South River High School, excellence in athletics has always been a priority. But over the past year, something extraordinary has been happening behind the scenes, something beyond drills, strategy, and talent. Thanks to the implementation of the Lead ‘Em Up Leadership Program, South River’s student-athletes and coaches have experienced a culture shift that is translating to real results on and off the field.
From soccer to basketball, football to lacrosse, Lead ‘Em Up has played a key role in building stronger leaders, tighter teams, and a more unified athletic program across the board.
A Culture Transformed
“I am amazed by the growth of my team through Lead ‘Em Up, it has truly transformed our culture, strengthening our foundation for years to come. Watching my players push each other, work together, and build meaningful connections has been incredible to witness.”
– Christine Flanagan| Head Varsity Girls Soccer Coach
Coach Flanagan has seen firsthand how powerful team culture can be when intentional leadership training is part of the process. With Lead ‘Em Up, her players began holding each other accountable, pushing each other to grow, and creating stronger bonds, laying the foundation for long-term success.
Historic Success on the Court
“This season our team reached historic heights on the basketball court as we had the best season in school history! I truly believe the togetherness, collective accountability, and leadership within our program played a massive role in our success. Lead ‘Em Up took training our guys to a whole new level of growth mindset, individually and as a team, and I look forward to the continued partnership.”
– Darren Hall | Head Boys Basketball Coach
Coach Hall’s team didn’t just improve, they made history. And according to him, the leadership lessons and mindset work from Lead ‘Em Up were essential to that success. By focusing on building leaders and promoting ownership across the roster, the team reached new heights in both performance and culture.
Players Feeling the Impact
“The Lead ‘Em Up program’s impact was very important for our record-setting season! Seeing the levels that our team could get to just by boosting energy in our practices really impacted our team’s performance all season long!”
– Jaden McDuffie | Varsity Football and Basketball Player
“Lead ‘Em Up has been such an amazing experience, and the everlasting impact it has on me and our teams is incredible. The positive atmosphere it has created has led us to become stronger, more confident, and more resilient players and individuals. The energy and excitement of this program truly builds us into successful leaders that will continue to thrive on and off the field/court.”
– Adella Norton | Captain, Varsity Girls Soccer, Basketball, and Lacrosse
“Lead ‘Em Up has shown us the importance of what it is to truly be a team. Being leaders on and off the court had a huge impact on the success we had as a program. Lead ‘Em Up helped us grow together into the State Champs we are today! #BEGREEN💚”
– Samie Clarke | Varsity Girls Soccer and Basketball
When student-athletes start talking about energy, confidence, and accountability, you know something special is happening. Across multiple sports, South River athletes are crediting Lead ‘Em Up with helping them grow as leaders and teammates, and the results speak for themselves.
A New Edge for the Whole Athletic Program
“As an athletic program, you are always looking for an edge over your competitors. We have a talented group of athletes at our school with great coaches. Lead ‘Em Up has provided our programs a new sense of team. Adam and the Lead ‘Em Up team have given our players and coaches the opportunity to venture off the playing field to dive into the value of the team. Our in-person trainings have created a new trust in our teams that has translated to more on-field success.”
– Dave Klingel | Athletic Director
South River’s Athletic Director, Dave Klingel, sees the big picture: Lead ‘Em Up isn’t just helping individual teams, it’s elevating the entire athletic department. By fostering leadership, communication, and trust across all programs, the school is developing stronger athletes and stronger people.
Why Leadership Matters
In today’s competitive sports landscape, talent is only part of the equation. Championship-level teams need leadership, chemistry, and resilience. South River High School is proving that when you invest in leadership development, you’re not just building better athletes, you’re building better people and better teams.
Want to See the Same Results in Your School?
If you’re a coach, athletic director, or educator looking to level up your program, Lead ‘Em Up might be the spark you’re missing. Our curriculum is built to be engaging, impactful, and immediately usable with your athletes.
Have fun and #LeadEmUp
