SPIRE’s Chief Operating Officer takes a few moments to share his thoughts on his role, and the rewarding experiences it has led to.

Describe your role at SPIRE

I oversee all operations at SPIRE which includes the Academy, Camps and our Events.

What are some of your earliest sports memories?

Going to Browns Football Games was the first time I really learned about sports and that is where my love of sports came from. We had tickets on the 50 yard line and I went with my Dad and Brother to all the games.

What’s the most interesting thing we can give to our student athletes to prepare them for their college sport?

Confidence. Once someone has confidence in themselves, their actions, their beliefs, their abilities and their behavior, there is really nothing they cannot accomplish. At SPIRE, our goal is to provide an environment that allows for our athletes to find themselves and their confidence and move forward in a positive and productive manner.

What does it take to succeed?

An investment in time to learn all the aspects of sport and events. One must be willing to take the time and make the effort to learn about all aspects of an overall operation. This is not something that can be accomplished quickly, but if you put the time in, it is very rewarding and enjoyable.

Any refections on the college experience of today’s athletes?

It is a complicated environment so they the more prepared student athletes are when they arrive on campus, they better chance they have of succeeding. There are many choices to be made and being mature enough to make the right choices is very important and also can be challenging. Being prepared is the key to a successful experience.

What’s your favorite thing about overseeing operations?

Watching the athletes grow and become prepared to take the next step. At SPIRE we realize that it is not only sport that is going to create success, but overall preparation for life. Being able to assist with this growth is very rewarding and is my favorite part of being involved with the athletes.

As a Chief Operating Officer, what makes you most proud?

The student athletes that have become fine adults taking themselves into leadership positions, both on and off the court. So many have moved to the next level and are leading successful and valuable lives.

What’s an excellent piece of advice you’ve been given?

Take it a day at a time.

What’s your favorite part about your job?

Working with my colleagues and the student athletes. It is great to watch the growth of both our in house team and the athletes.

Favorite sport?

Football

Favorite home-cooked meal.

Baked chicken

What is always stocked in your refrigerator?

Fruit

What movie have you watched again and again?

Arthur (the original version)

Where is your favorite place to travel and why?

Sanibel Island in Florida. It is peaceful and calm and has an amazing beach.

What is a fun fact we may not know about you?

I love fast cars.

What is a cause you support and why?

Providence House—It is a crisis care nursery for children and makes a very positive impact on the lives of children and families in need.