From the desk of Athletic Director John Dibble….
Many of our programs at Rite of Passage have changed over the years, but one has remained constant: The concept that athletic participation is an overriding ingredient in success. I am fortunate to be able to "live my dream" as Western Region Athletic Director, while helping the youth in our program live theirs. While I was a teacher, coach, and Athletic Director at nearby Yerington High School, I watched the ROP program grow during the late 80's. My wrestling teams practiced and competed with ROP wrestlers. It didn't take me long to figure out that the Rams were going to be tough by the time the State Tournament rolled around. Many of my wrestlers had been wrestling since they were in early grade school, but the ROP guys, with virtually no experience, won a lot of matches. They were always respectful, exhibited good sportsmanship, and were helpful to have around. They would arrive early and stay late to help with the mats and clean up after the tournament. I was always in awe of the coaches who helped transform these troubled youth into successful citizens.
What I saw, and what most observers notice is just the tip of the iceberg. Many label athletic programs as the ‘Front Porch’ of the entire organization. They don't see the endless hours spent by admissions staff, medical professionals, ancillary personnel, Case Managers, Teachers, administration, and group living staff. Athletics model the success or failure of these very important programs. I am proud of the efforts of everyone and our ‘front porch’ looks good thanks to those efforts.
Silver State Academy has closed the book on another fabulous year. Our Student Athletes have been recognized as Nevada State Champions in the Presidential Challenge once again for the third state year. SSA won Western Region Championships in Wrestling, Basketball, and baseball, and won the Ram Bowl for the 4th straight year and qualified for the playoffs for the 8th straight year. We are one of a very few schools in the State of Nevada that webcast our athletic events (both audio and visual) enabling our fans to enjoy RAM athletics over the internet. SSA has also become an integral part of the Reno-Tahoe Odyssey, as volunteers and participants, a major ultra-endurance event in the Reno-Tahoe area.
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