Bound for Greatness: John Sgromolo's Journey to Athletic Excellence

By Scott Garvis,

In the ever-evolving landscape of education-based athletics, there are individuals who stand out not just for their accomplishments, but for their unwavering commitment to excellence. John Sgromolo, Director of Athletics at Saint John's Country Day School, is one such figure. With a career marked by dedication, leadership, and a passion for empowering student-athletes, Sgromolo's journey is a testament to the transformative power of sports administration.

I had the privilege of sitting down with John Sgromolo, a certified athletic administrator whose impact extends far beyond the confines of his school. From his early days as a professional baseball player to his current role at Saint John's, Sgromolo's path has been nothing short of remarkable.

Shaping Leadership Through Athletics

Sgromolo's approach to leadership is deeply rooted in his personal experiences as an athlete and coach. Born and raised in Virginia Beach, he was drawn to baseball from a young age, eventually earning a spot at Flagler College, where he excelled on the diamond. However, it was during his college years that he encountered a pivotal figure in his life - Judd Damon, the new athletic director at Flagler.

"Judd Damon revitalized our student-athlete experience," Sgromolo recalls. "From upgraded facilities to improved travel arrangements, his impact was immediate and profound." Inspired by Damon's leadership, Sgromolo set his sights on a career in athletic administration.

After a brief stint in professional baseball, Sgromolo returned to his alma mater as an assistant coach before transitioning to a head coaching role at Ridgeview High School. His journey eventually led him to Saint John's Country Day School, where he assumed the role of Director of Athletics.

Navigating New Challenges with Integrity

Transitioning into a new environment presented its own set of challenges for Sgromolo. However, his approach was guided by a simple yet powerful principle: prioritize the student-athlete experience. "Every decision I make is centered around one question: How will this impact our student-athletes?" Sgromolo explains.

To foster a sense of community and collaboration, Sgromolo implemented initiatives such as a school-wide survey to gather feedback from coaches and athletes. This inclusive approach not only empowered stakeholders but also laid the groundwork for a shared vision and mission.

Embracing Positive Coaching and Leadership

Central to Sgromolo's leadership philosophy is the concept of positive coaching. Drawing from his background in positive coaching and athletic leadership, he emphasizes the importance of catching people doing things right and actively responding to their efforts. "We need to lead others to autonomy, belongingness, and confidence," Sgromolo asserts, echoing principles from self-determination theory.

His dedication to empowering coaches and athletes alike has earned him respect both within his school community and the broader athletic community. As he continues to champion the student-athlete experience, Sgromolo remains committed to shaping future leaders and elevating the standards of education-based athletics.

In the ever-changing landscape of high school athletics, John Sgromolo stands as a beacon of integrity, leadership, and excellence. His journey serves as an inspiration to all who strive to make a positive impact on the lives of student-athletes, reminding us that true greatness is not just measured by wins and losses, but by the lives we touch along the way.

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Bound for GreatnessBy Scott GarvisJan 19, 2024