Student-athlete captains from across the Alpine School District gathered on the morning of September 9, 2026, for the district’s seasonal Captains Academy. The event, which is held three times a year during the fall, winter, and spring seasons, provides student leaders with instruction on leadership tools, sportsmanship, and team-building strategies.
The academy featured presentations from Superintendent Rob Smith and several distinguished district alumni, including former NBA draft pick Travis Hansen, Olympic gold medalist Noelle Pikus-Pace, and former NFL tight end Chad Lewis. Hansen stated that returning to mentor students is a way to give back to the school district.
Noelle Pikus-Pace expressed her desire for captains to use their influence to be humble, kind, and to help their teams develop resilience both on and off the court. Chad Lewis encouraged the students to pursue their goals with confidence and perseverance, telling them that what they can conceive, they can achieve.
District Athletic Director Matt Norman stated that the academy was established in 2012 to provide practical tools and intentional focus for student leaders. Norman noted that the program creates a ripple effect as captains return to their locker rooms to share impactful concepts with their teammates.
Local student-athletes reported the training offered valuable perspectives. Paul, a football captain at Lehi High School, said the experience influenced how he wants to approach his final season. Zoey, a soccer captain at Mountain View High School, noted the training emphasized the importance of leading by example through her actions.
The Captains Academy aims to support student leaders by connecting them with world-class mentors to help them navigate the dynamics of leading their peers.
