Community Pride: Jesse Jeffers on Leadership, Community, & Legacy
"Communication makes or breaks you in you in your role as an athletic administrator." Jesse Jeffers South Milwaukee Middle School Athletic Director
In the latest episode of Bound for Greatness, Scott Garvis talks to Jesse Jeffers, an athletic director whose story and vision are as inspiring as the programs he builds. As the athletic director at South Milwaukee Middle School, Jeffers has carved out a niche in fostering community engagement, empowering young athletes, and redefining what it means to lead in middle school athletics. From his small-town roots in Jamestown, Tennessee, to his innovative approach in Wisconsin, Jeffers epitomizes leadership, resilience, and creativity in athletics.
From Jamestown to Milwaukee: A Journey Rooted in Sports
Growing up in Jamestown, a small Tennessee town with “four red lights and a Walmart,” Jeffers found refuge and direction in sports. “Sports saved me,” he shared, describing how the discipline and life skills he gained on the field shaped his path. While his early dreams didn’t include coaching or administration, life had other plans. After earning a bachelor’s in physical education and a master’s in sports management, Jeffers began building athletic programs from the ground up, eventually finding his calling in sports leadership.
Building a Culture of Inclusion and Opportunity
Jeffers is passionate about making sports accessible to all students, whether they’re athletes, managers, or budding media professionals. At South Milwaukee, he’s launching a sports media team where students create newsletters, produce social media content, and document games. “There’s a place in sports for everyone,” Jeffers explained. From intramurals to innovative media projects, he’s determined to provide opportunities for every student, whether they’re on the field or behind the scenes.
He also introduced programs like athlete of the week, where local businesses partner to celebrate standout performers. One memorable moment involved a student trying a Cranky Al’s donut for the first time—a gesture that turned into a bridge of community pride. “It’s about relationships, not just wins,” Jeffers emphasized, highlighting the ripple effect of fostering community engagement.
Leveraging Technology to Elevate Programs
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Jeffers is embracing technology to enhance the athletic experience for students and fans. From communication apps like ParentSquare to platforms like GameChanger, he’s integrating tools that streamline operations and deepen connections. “Technology is growing, and we have to grow with it,” Jeffers said, describing how his media team will likely teach him a thing or two along the way.
Community Pride: The Key to Lasting Impact
For Jeffers, building pride doesn’t stop with the team; it extends to the entire community. “Community pride is the foundation of sustainable athletics,” he said, describing how initiatives like coach of the month and athlete recognition programs unite schools, families, and local businesses. Jeffers firmly believes that when communities rally behind their teams, the impact goes beyond the scoreboard—it creates lifelong memories and stronger connections.
A Legacy of Leadership and Growth
As he looks to the future, Jeffers hopes to leave a legacy of holistic development. “I want every student to leave our programs not just as better athletes but as better humans,” he shared. Whether it’s through lessons learned on the court or in the classroom, Jeffers aims to instill respect, resilience, and a love for learning in every student he serves.
Jeffers is also committed to his own growth, working toward certifications like the Certified Athletic Administrator (CAA) designation and continually seeking inspiration from peers and mentors. “You have to have a constant want to learn,” he said, a mantra that drives his dedication to his craft.
Bound for Greatness: Leadership in Action
Jesse Jeffers’ story is a testament to the transformative power of sports and the impact of a dedicated leader. Through innovative programs, community engagement, and an unwavering commitment to inclusion, he’s proving that middle school athletics can be a launchpad for greatness—not just for athletes, but for entire communities.
For listeners of Bound for Greatness, Jeffers’ message resonates: greatness isn’t a destination, it’s a journey. Whether you’re a student, coach, or aspiring athletic director, there’s something to learn from his approach to leadership. As Scott Garvis summed up, “It’s the work in the dark that lets the kids shine under the bright lights.”
Jeffers is shining a light of his own, and it’s clear he’s bound for greatness—one innovative idea, relationship, and community connection at a time.
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