Correction: This story has been updated to indicate Mr. Manley’s first name is Matt, not Mike.
The U-High Athlete Council had its first meeting on Jan 4. The council is composed of the varsity captains for each sport and is a way for athletes to voice opinions and concerns to the faculty. The council plans on meeting once a month to discuss new ideas.
Athletics Director Matt Manley expressed specific goals during the first meeting such as an organized signing day for U-High athletes who have committed to play collegiate athletics. He envisions involving team leaders to ensure that the event aligns with the desires of the student-athlete community at U-High.
“Specifically, I want to talk about a signing day. I know we have done stuff in the past, but I really want to talk to the athletes and create a tradition here at Lab,” Mr. Manley said. “I want to get team leaders together to hear their voices.”
Mr. Manley also shared his plans to update the athlete handbook, recognizing the importance of student voices by representing their concerns. By seeking input from the athletes themselves, he aims to create policies and guidelines that genuinely reflect the needs and experiences of the U-high athletic community.
“Because I’m new here, I wanted an opportunity to better understand the students and coaches here at Lab,” Mr. Manley said.
Tomasz Witkowski, a captain on the boys soccer team, appreciated the positive atmosphere created by Mr. Manley, indicating a promising start for the council’s activities.
“I really liked the first meeting,” Tomasz said. “He was very open about everything, and it seems like he really wants to get everyone involved.”
