You're Invited!
You're Invited!
You're Invited!
You're Invited!
You're Invited!
You're Invited!
Athletes for Hope’s High School Leadership Academy is where student-athletes turn their passion for sports into purpose. This semester-long program brings together high school athletes who want to lead, serve, and create change.
Each month, participants connect virtually to learn from professional athletes, explore causes they care about, and gain real tools to make an impact. By the end, HSLA students aren’t just athletes—they’re changemakers, leaders, and lifelong advocates for their communities.
Interested in joining the 2026 High School Leadership Academy—or want to explore ways to get involved? We’d love to hear from you.
After only two years of service, High School
Leadership Academy is a growing success!
Here’s the stats to prove it.
100%
Feel more empowered to be a community leader as a result of participating in the program
100%
Agree that HSLA increased their knowledge about using their platform to make an impact
100%
Agree that HSLA increased their knowledge about identifying their charitable passions
4.8/5
Overall HSLA rating provided by participating students.
Katie Ledecky
OLY swimming
Carolyn Swords
WNBA
Caleb Rogers
NFL
Quade
San Diego, CA
Water Polo
Quade’s mission is to combine his interest in neuroscience and psychology with his passion for service, reading and athletics. His goal is to motivate kids to live their healthiest lives while providing the tools to achieve physical and emotional well-being.
Eve
Washington, D.C
Cross Country
Eve’s mission is to educate female athletes about running safety and self-defense.
Ella
Los Angeles, CA
Tennis and Soccer
Ella’s mission is to create the opportunity for children with disabilities to participate in physical education, ensuring all students experience the benefits of sports while building a more inclusive school community.
Logan
Los Angeles, CA
Baseball
Logan’s mission is to build a community that helps athletes develop strong study habits and stay on top of grades through tutoring and academic support.
Abby
Oakland, CA
Field Hockey
Abby’s mission is to advocate for female athlete mental health by amplifying awareness and further opening up the conversation of mental health to support female athletes both on and off the field.
Sydney
Washington, D.C.
Soccer
Sydney’s mission is to help kids gain equitable access to sports and promote play persistence.
Mia
Washington, D.C.
Softball, Track, and Cross Country
Mia’s mission is to help younger athletes have the smoothest possible journey to success, both on and off the field.
ESPN’S Billie Jean King Regional Honoree
We’re proud to celebrate Sydney’s accomplishment and honored to be part of her story. Click the button below to read more about her outstanding work in sports philanthropy as a high school athlete.
Do you know a student-athlete who doesn’t just play the game but also uplifts others? Each month we’re recognizing young leaders who excel in classroom and in their sport while creating real change in their schools and communities.
Apply to HSLA or nominate a student-athlete who inspires through leadership, service, and impact.
Are you a high school athlete ready to grow as a leader on and off the field? The Athletes for Hope High School Leadership Academy (HSLA) empowers student-athletes to explore service, teamwork, and purpose beyond the game.
Check out the 2026 HSLA Schedule and start your journey today!
Oct 1, 2025: Applications Open
Dec 1, 2025: Application Deadline
| Session | East Coast | West Coast |
|---|---|---|
| Session 1: Discover Your Passion | Feb 4 7pm EST | Feb 6 7pm PST |
| Session 2: Leadership | Mar 4 7pm EST | Mar 6 7pm PST |
| Session 3: Advocacy | Apr 1 7pm EST | Date Time PST |
| Session 4: Mental Health | May 6 7pm EST | Date Time PST |
| Graduation! | Jun 3 Time | Date Time PST |
I just wanted to thank you so much for putting together such an outstanding program. I learned so many valuable skills at Athletes for Hope that I will carry with me for the rest of my life, and that is really special. I am looking forward to staying involved in this amazing organization and continuing to learn ways to give back to my community.
Colette W.
This was such a wonderful opportunity, and I am so glad to be a part of such a tight knit group of student athletes. I can't wait to see what the future brings for everyone that was a part of this program, as well as AFH as a whole. This is such an impactful program that deserves to reach so many more people!
Jordyn H.
My HSLA experience has been amazing. I have met important and impactful leaders and athletes. I even got the chance to ask them questions and get meaningful insight on what it takes to be a strong leader. I am surrounded by other like-minded teens with similar goals and this puts me in an environment that I am proud to be in.
Kayson W.
