Last week, when they could have been anywhere but in a school building, nearly 300 Katy ISD student-athletes gathered to learn and grow as burgeoning leaders.

Every summer, the district holds its annual Student Athlete Leadership Team (S.A.L.T.) conference, which is dedicated to enhancing students’ leadership skills and personal growth. The students represent all UIL sports played in Katy ISD and are nominated to participate by a member of their campus coaching staff for their leadership potential and commitment to excellence.

Lance Carter, Executive Director of Athletics for Katy ISD, welcomed the students and expressed gratitude for their commitment to self-improvement.

“I want to thank all of you for giving your time to grow today as leaders,” he said.

He opened the day with a story shared by a district coach, who had been inspired by the leadership of one of his students.

                 That student was Aidan Morrison, a recent Seven Lakes High School graduate and soccer standout. Aidan, a S.A.L.T. alumni, was named the 2023-24 Gatorade Texas Boys Soccer Player of the Year, for the second consecutive year, and was part of the team that won two consecutive 6A state titles in boys soccer.

But beyond his individual and team accomplishments, Carter shared that Aidan was an intentional campus leader, taking time to build relationships with other students and staff in the soccer program at Seven Lakes. He engaged in generational leadership, building a lasting legacy that continues to inspire others to grow. 

“The impact you can have on someone can affect them forever,” Carter said, reflecting on Aidan's influence. 

Dr. Ken Gregorski, Katy ISD’s Superintendent, opened the event by sharing that the district continues to invest in athletics in large part because of the essential life skills sports participation imparts upon students and the positive impact it plays on academic performance. 

“You’re going to be leaders, help others, and make this a better community for everybody,” he said. “Katy ISD students are the future, and we thank you for your continued efforts to grow and learn as student leaders.”

Stephen Mackey, founder and CEO of the 2Words character development program, served as the day’s keynote speaker and main facilitator. He challenged the students to reflect on what leadership meant to them, and through friendly competition and discussion, the students were able to learn from one another.

Approximately 15,000 students, or 16% of Katy ISD’s total student population, participate in a district sport at the junior high and high school level. Visit the Katy ISD Athletic webpage to learn more.