In the heart of central Arkansas, the Pulaski County Special School District (PCSSD) is home to a remarkable group of coaches who are dedicated to nurturing the growth and development of their student-athletes. These passionate individuals are not just focused on honing athletic skills, but on cultivating well-rounded individuals who excel both on and off the field.

Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

Shekinna Stricklen: Instilling Discipline and Resilience

As a former WNBA player and University of Tennessee alum, Coach Shekinna Stricklen brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to her role as the head coach of the Girls Sylvan Hills High Basketball team. Drawing inspiration from legendary coaches like Pat Summitt, Stricklen is committed to pushing her players to be better not just on the court, but in all aspects of their lives. "These coaches pushed me to be a better player on the court, but also a better person off the court," she reflects. "Now I want to give back and make a positive impact on the next generation. By sharing my knowledge, I can teach them about discipline, hard work, and resilience."Stricklen's approach goes beyond the X's and O's of the game, as she strives to instill in her players the values and life skills that will serve them well long after their playing days are over. Through her mentorship, these young athletes are learning the importance of dedication, perseverance, and personal growth, qualities that will undoubtedly serve them well in their future endeavors.

Michael Flowers: Fostering School Spirit and Community

At Mills University Studies High, Coach Michael Flowers has a unique perspective on the role of sports in the overall educational experience. As a basketball and baseball coach, he has witnessed firsthand the profound impact that athletics can have on students. "Sports offer an avenue for students to excel and build confidence, often motivating them in their academic studies," he explains. "Additionally, they foster school spirit and create a sense of community and structured outlet for students."Flowers' holistic approach to coaching recognizes the broader benefits of athletic participation, beyond just the development of physical skills. By cultivating a sense of team camaraderie and school pride, he helps his students find a deeper connection to their educational journey, ultimately leading to improved academic performance and a more well-rounded experience.

Kyle Crider: Fostering a Lifelong Love of Movement

At Joe T. Robinson High, Cross Country Coach Kyle Crider is on a mission to inspire his students to develop a lifelong love of movement. "I want students to fall in love with the process of running—enjoying the small improvements, the joy of movement, and the satisfaction that comes from giving your best effort," he says. "When you love what you're doing, whether it's in the classroom or on the course, success naturally follows."Crider's approach is rooted in the belief that physical activity is not just about winning races or setting personal bests, but about cultivating a deep appreciation for the inherent joy and fulfillment that comes from pushing one's limits. By fostering this mindset, he helps his students build a foundation for a healthy, active lifestyle that can extend far beyond their time in high school.

Zachary Noga: Lessons in Resilience and Adaptability

As the head coach for the boys soccer and tennis teams at Maumelle High, Zachary Noga is dedicated to teaching his students the valuable lessons that can be learned through both success and failure. "Athletics requires making a plan, practicing that plan, and taking it out on the field," he explains. "In failure, you know that the plan didn't work, so you have to go back to the drawing board, work harder, and make a couple tweaks. In success, you learned that your hard work paid off, but you can't just settle for one win, you have another opponent to focus on next."Noga's emphasis on resilience and adaptability is a testament to the transformative power of sports. By guiding his students through the ups and downs of athletic competition, he is equipping them with the skills and mindset to navigate the challenges they will face in all aspects of their lives, both now and in the future.