Leading by Example: My Dual Captaincy at Summit Christian Academy by Keegan Glade
As defined by Keegan Glade, Leading two teams at Summit Christian Academy was a challenge that tested my abilities as a leader and a teammate As captain, I was responsible for guiding not just one but two groups of athletes, each with their personalities and needs This required me to be adaptable and consistent, and through these experiences, I learned what it truly means to lead by example
The first key lesson I learned was understanding each team’s unique dynamic. While both teams had similar goals, their approaches and personalities were different. One team thrived on structure and routine, while the other excelled with flexibility and creativity I quickly realized that my leadership had to be tailored to fit each team’s strengths, motivating them in ways that made them feel empowered and supported. It wasn’t just about providing instructions; it was about creating an environment where everyone could shine in their way
Effective communication was another cornerstone of my captaincy I knew that to lead successfully, I had to be open and approachable. Regular team meetings, check-ins, and feedback sessions helped ensure everyone was on the same page I also made it a point to listen carefully to my teammates' concerns and ideas Leadership isn’t just about giving
direction it’s also about being receptive and understanding I could address issues quickly by maintaining an open dialogue and ensuring everyone felt valued and heard.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role as captain was the opportunity to lead by example I consciously tried to model the values I wanted to see in my teammates Whether it was showing up early for practice, giving 100% during every drill, or maintaining a positive attitude in challenging situations, I wanted to set the standard for effort, discipline, and resilience My actions spoke louder than words, and I could see my teammates gradually adopting the same work ethic and mindset
My priority was also building a sense of camaraderie and unity within both teams I worked to create a supportive and collaborative environment where every player felt like an integral part of the team. Celebrating individual and collective achievements, no matter how small, helped boost morale and reinforce the idea that we were all in it together
Reflecting on my time as captain, I realize how much I grew personally and as a leader Leading two teams at Summit Christian Academy taught me invaluable lessons about adaptability, communication, and leading with integrity It was a journey that shaped me as a leader and deepened my appreciation for the power of teamwork and mutual support