On March 30th, 2023, Ed Snider Youth Hockey & Education held our 2nd annual Fit to Lead Conference at Neumann University, welcoming over 200 high school and college student-athletes, coaches, and educators from across Southeastern PA to a free day of learning and inspiration. The conference brought together student-athletes and leaders in the sports industry to discuss leadership both on and off the field. Attendees were treated to a day of engaging speakers and a chance to network with fellow student-athletes and industry professionals.
“…you must work tirelessly at your craft…”
– Jordan Burroughs
The day began with a keynote speech by Jordan Burroughs, a world-renowned wrestler and Olympic gold medalist, who spoke about how hard work, passion, and faith can forge lifelong champions.
Dr. Mitchell Green and Milly Routledge from Greenepsych led the first morning breakout session on managing mind chatter, providing students with techniques to manage their thoughts and focus on their goals. In the second morning breakout session, Tamyra Mensah-Stock shared her inspiring story of overcoming adversity in a Q&A moderated by Sarah Baicker, giving students a glimpse into the hard work and perseverance it takes to achieve success in sports and in life.
The afternoon keynote session was delivered by Philadelphia Eagles Defensive End and Snider Board Member, Brandom Graham and was moderated by NBC Sports Philadelphia host, Amy Fadool. Brandon spoke about the power of choice and how it can shape our lives both on and off the playing field. He also led a “Fly Eagles Fly” chant at the end of the keynote!
Professor Tina Sloan Green, from the Black Women in Sport Foundation, and Coach Alison Williams Bruno led the first afternoon breakout session on modeling respect and promoting equality, exploring how we can create a culture of inclusion and equity in sports and beyond.
“We need everyone working together to make a difference…”
Professor Tina Sloan Green
The “Beyond the Game” panel discussion rounded out the second-afternoon session featuring former collegiate and professional athletes. Jordan Wolf of Spouting Rock (formerly PLL & Duke University Lacrosse), Eric Bowman Jr. of Howard College of Medicine (formerly Neumann University Basketball), Kenny Cleary of California Closets (formerly Tufts University Ice Hockey), Megan Dugan of Siegfried (formerly Jefferson Univesity Basketball), and Milly Routledge of Greenepsych (formerly Villanova University Swimming) all shared their experiences in the workforce and how their time on the playing field led them to success, giving students valuable insights into the many career paths available to those with a background in sports.
The panel was moderated by Dave Leno, TV and radio broadcaster, who brought his infectious energy to the stage throughout the day as our MC.
Overall, the Fit to Lead Conference was a massive success, providing student-athletes with valuable insights and inspiration from industry leaders, as well as a chance to connect with their peers and build their networks. We are grateful to our speakers, panelists, and everyone else who made this conference possible. We look forward to continuing to offer this conference in the future and helping to shape the next generation of leaders in the sports industry and beyond.
This conference was made possible through funding from the Pa. Department of Health’s Title V Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant, which allowed Snider to offer this valuable experience to student-athletes free of charge.
View the recap video below:
