Hustle meets heart when it comes to Pulaski County Special School District’s (PCSSD) athletic programs. Across the district, PCSSD coaches are dedicated to their students’ development not just as athletes, but teammates, scholars and young adults. Four secondary coaches from across the district shared why they became a coach, their hope for their programs and how athletics help develop well-rounded students.
Former WNBA player and University of Tennessee alum, Coach Shekinna Stricklen brings the wisdom of coaches like the legendary Coach Pat Summitt to her role as head coach for the Girls Sylvan Hills High Basketball team. “These coaches pushed me to be a better player on the court, but also a better person off the court. 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.”
At Mills University Studies High, Coach Michael Flowers champions the role of sports for schools as a whole. As a basketball and baseball coach, he has a front row seat to the way athletics impact students. “Sports offer an avenue for students to excel and build confidence, often motivating them in their academic studies. Additionally, they foster school spirit and create a sense of community and structured outlet for students.”
Joe T. Robinson High Cross Country Coach Kyle Crider hopes his students 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. When you love what you’re doing, whether it’s in the classroom or on the course, success naturally follows.”
Coach Zachary Noga, head coach for the boys soccer and tennis teams at Maumelle High, teaches his students to learn from both wins and losses. “Athletics requires making a plan, practicing that plan, and taking it out on the field. 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.”
About PCSSD:
Pulaski County Special School District spans more than 600 square miles in central Arkansas and requires highly skilled and passionate personnel to adapt educational policies and personalization to 25 schools. Every school is accredited by the Arkansas State Board of Education. PCSSD has served schools across Pulaski County since July 1927.
PCSSD is committed to creating a nationally recognized school district that assures that all students achieve at their maximum potential through collaborative, supportive and continuous efforts of all stakeholders.
pcssd.org
501.234.2000
