Three student-athletes from Asbury Park School District who embody the essence of leadership and athleticism had the opportunity to attend a Spring Leadership Summit recently held at Freehold Township High School. The summit served as a platform to cultivate leadership skills as well as foster personal growth while building a sense of camaraderie among student athletes.

APDS’s representatives attendees were Prince Gue, Dawn Davis-Strode and Elliot Delagado. Each brought their unique talents and aspirations to the gathering.

Prince is a tenth grader who is a second-year baseball player. His takeaway from the summit was, “no matter if you win or lose, be happy and give it your all.” Dawn, a freshman shotput and discus thrower, walked away understanding the importance of working “hard now so it pays off later in life.” Elliott, the eldest of the attendees, is a junior and in his third year as a member of the boys volleyball team. He too found great value in attending the summit with his peers from across Monmouth County.

"No matter how bad you played that day; the sun will come up tomorrow,” Elliott said. “It will be a new day. Turn the chapter and move on, do not live in the past."

Throughout the summit, students engaged in discussions and team-building activities designed to empower them with leadership tools, including effective communication, goal setting, mentorship, and the importance of connecting with like-minded peers. They were reminded that all of these tools can be utilized in athletics, the classroom and life. As a result of this opportunity, Prince, Dawn and Elliot are better positioned to make a positive impact in the Asbury Park School District and beyond.