Thursday, March 14, 2024 promises to be more than just a typical Thursday at West Greene. Excitement is mounting in the West Greene School District as the news breaks that two esteemed Olympic athletes will be paying a special visit to inspire and motivate our students. This thrilling opportunity promises to be a memorable occasion for all involved, igniting the flames of ambition and passion within the hearts of budding athletes and dreamers alike.
Scheduled to grace the halls of West Greene School District are none other than Sakura Kokumai and Steve Mesler, both renowned champions in their respective fields of karateka and bobsledding. These athletes represent the pinnacle of confidence, resilience, and character, making them the perfect role models for the students of West Greene.
Sakura Kokumai is a history-making US Olympian as she became the first American karateka athlete to qualify for the Olympics and also the only female athlete who represented the sport from the US at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Originally from Hawaii, Sakura moved to California and has been training in Colorado Springs, CO at the US Olympic Training Center. Most recently, Sakura captured gold at the 2023 Pan Am Games in Santiago, Chile.
Joining Sakura is Steve Mesler, a trailblazer in the realm of Social Emotional Learning with the development of the Classroom Champions program. Steve Mesler was a member of the Team USA four-man bobsled team which captured gold in the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. He also was a member of the 2002 and 2006 teams as well. Steve was an All-SEC Track and Field athlete while he attended the University of Florida. Steve is the co-founder, President, and CEO of Classroom Champions.
The visit of these esteemed Olympians is not just a momentous occasion; it is a rare opportunity for the students of West Greene to glean invaluable insights from those who have scaled the summit of athletic excellence. Through motivational talks and interactive sessions, these athletes will impart wisdom, guidance, and inspiration to the next generation of champions.
For the students of West Greene School District, who are using the Classroom Champions program, this is a chance to dream big, set audacious goals, and pursue their passions with unwavering determination. Whether their aspirations lie in athletics or any other field, the visit of these Olympic icons serves as a reminder that with dedication, perseverance, and belief in oneself, anything is possible.
Stay tuned for updates and highlights from this eagerly anticipated event as the West Greene School District prepares to welcome two Olympic athletes with open arms and eager hearts.
Small towns... Big Dreams... West Greene!