SALT is designed to give SPASH student-athletes an opportunity to develop as leaders while helping create a stronger culture throughout the school and community.

The mission of the SPASH Student Athletic Leadership Team is to empower students to become servant leaders who positively influence their teammates, school, and community through character, leadership, service, and Panther Pride.

The kickoff night will introduce the 2026-27 SALT Leadership Team, who will help lead the program throughout the upcoming school year. The student leaders will play an important role in developing leadership opportunities, promoting school spirit, organizing service activities, and helping connect student-athletes across SPASH athletic programs.

The evening will also provide an overview of the SALT program, including its purpose and vision, leadership expectations, opportunities for involvement, monthly leadership themes, service projects, and ways teams throughout SPASH athletics can participate.

Featured Keynote Speaker: Jeff Olson
A highlight of the evening will be a keynote presentation from Jeff Olson, a former high school football coach and nationally recognized inspirational speaker.

Olson and his family created the Do It For Daniel initiative following the tragic loss of their 19-year-old son, Daniel, to suicide in 2012. Through their story and educational documentary, the family has worked to bring hope, education, and awareness about mental health to schools and communities across the country.

Olson's message encourages students to look out for one another, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and understand that asking for help is a sign of strength.

His presentation will emphasize the importance of connection, recognizing when someone may be struggling, and understanding that every individual has the ability to make a positive difference in someone else's life.

Building a Culture of Leadership
SALT will focus on leadership that extends beyond the playing field.

Student-athletes participating in the program will have opportunities to represent their teams, take part in service projects, participate in leadership challenges, attend monthly meetings and workshops, and help develop school-wide spirit initiatives.

The program will also provide student-athletes with opportunities to promote Panther Pride through social media, student section themes, game-day activities, and other school and community events.

"We want our student-athletes to understand that leadership is not just about being a team captain or being the best player," said David Hauser, SPASH Director of Athletics & Co-Curricular Activities. "Leadership is about how you treat people, how you respond when things are difficult, and what you do to make your team, school, and community better. SALT gives our students an opportunity to develop those skills and put them into action."

The kickoff event will mark the beginning of what SPASH hopes will become a long-term tradition focused on student leadership, service, character, and school pride.

The program's motto is:

Lead. Serve. Inspire.

SPASH students, families, coaches, and community members are invited to attend the SALT Kickoff Night on Wednesday, August 19, at 7:00 p.m. in the SPASH Auditorium as the school begins this new chapter in student-athlete leadership.

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