In rural communities, athletics are more than just games—they’re gathering places, community pillars and powerful platforms for leadership development. Yet across the country, the culture around sports is showing signs of strain: referee shortages, sideline hostility and burned-out student-athletes. These are not just isolated problems—they’re symptoms of a deeper cultural shift.

This session introduces SUPPORTSMANSHIP, a proactive mindset and framework designed to unify players, coaches, parents and spectators around shared values. Rooted in character, respect and responsibility, SUPPORTSMANSHIP challenges rural schools to move beyond sportsmanship as a moment and build a culture that grows people—on and off the field.

Participants will explore real challenges facing school athletics, reflect on their role within the athletic community, and walk away with actionable tools to strengthen culture in their schools and towns. Whether you’re a superintendent, coach, board member or proud community supporter, this session is a call to lead with intention and build something better—together.