Scoreboard Blog

The Inland Lakes Public Schools have created a buzz of excitement in their schools with their  launch of an important new initiative known as the “Bulldogs Athletic Leadership Training” Program.  The goal of this program is to develop Inland Lakes athletes into Leaders of Character who display excellence and the mindset of a champion on and off the playing field.

The Inland Lakes Schools are providing visionary new leadership in Northerm Michigan with their commitment to excellence in athlete’s total lives. We can commend Fred Osborn, Superintendent of Inland Lakes Schools, and Ryan Svoboda, Inland Lakes Athletic Director for their support and vision for this program.

Kelly Kolb, an active member of the Executive Board for Beyond the Scoreboard Inc. and her daughter Katie Karlson are providing the leadership teaching for this program.  Kelly and her husband Patrick and their three children have all been strong students and athletes in the Inland Lakes Schools. Kelly has coached junior high track for 10 years and Katie is currently coaching the 8th grade basketball team.

Kelly and Katie have already incorporated this training into several Inland Lakes teams this fall with good success.  They will also lead weekly character training during the athletes’  lunch hour once a week.  Athletes will be challenged to learn about a character trait through several mediums and will hear stories of athletes and people who have overcome obstacles in striving for excellence.  They will be challenged to lead by example and make a difference for their team, school, home and community.

The goals of the program are listed as follows:

• Character Training for every team
• Coaches Training
• Service Projects
• Self-sufficient through grants and fundraising
• Go to area schools to spread the program
• Create an overwhelming sense of Bulldog Pride and Spirit at Inland Lakes

This program is an excellent example of what Beyond the Scoreboard seeks to inspire and assist in character education.  Our goal is to influence administrators and coaches of school and youth sport organizations to provide equal emphasis on excellence in competition and in character.