SPIRE Academy Welcomes New Leadership for Future Growth and Innovation

SPIRE Academy, a leading multisport academy located in Geneva, Ohio, has announced significant leadership changes aimed at enhancing growth and innovation. Effective November 1, 2024, Steve Sanders has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer, and Ted Meekma has become the Chairman. Both leaders bring decades of experience in the sports industry and are expected to play vital roles in developing SPIRE as a premier destination for student-athletes.

Vision for SPIRE Academy

Steve Sanders steps into his new role following a successful tenure at SPIRE where he significantly boosted student enrollment by 65% and camp participation by 45%. Sanders emphasized the importance of creating a world-class academy that prioritizes both athletic performance and holistic development. “We are launching innovative growth initiatives that will not only benefit our student-athletes but will also enhance the broader Ohio community,” he stated.

Ted Meekma, a trailblazer in the multisport academy model and a founding figure at IMG Academy, also shared his enthusiasm for the future of SPIRE Academy. He highlighted the academy's unique position to redefine standards across the industry. “SPIRE has proven its value over the past few years, and now we are poised to elevate our program to new heights,” Meekma asserted, focusing on sustainability and long-term success.

Accomplishments and Industry Insights

Bob Kain, former President of IMG, underscored Meekma's unparalleled experience and passion for sports training as an asset that will undoubtedly propel SPIRE to new levels of success. Additionally, Ray Lewis, an NFL Hall of Famer and SPIRE partner, expressed his confidence in Sanders' leadership. “Steve’s innovative strategies will distinguish SPIRE in the market and enhance the experience for our student-athletes,” Lewis said, commending the academy’s focus on developing resilient and goal-oriented individuals.

SPIRE Academy garners over one million campus visits annually, showcasing world-class facilities and a commitment to excellent academics alongside elite sports training. As the youth sports landscape shifts, SPIRE is uniquely equipped to harness new opportunities, particularly within Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives, women’s athletics, and equitable opportunities in high school sports.

About the New Leaders

Steve Sanders brings a diverse background in marketing and technology implementation, having previously worked with prominent organizations such as IMG Academy and various sports technology startups. His military experience as a former U.S. Army Captain contributed to his strategic planning skills, preparing him for leadership in high-pressure environments.

Ted Meekma's journey in sports began with the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy, where he played a key role in its establishment. His negotiation of the academy’s acquisition by IMG and subsequent leadership role at IMG Academy demonstrates his extensive knowledge and influence in the sports training sector.

Commitment to Excellence

SPIRE Academy is not just a sports institution; it is an academic and personal development center where student-athletes are groomed for success both in and out of competition. It is situated on 750 acres, offering extensive facilities for various sports including basketball, esports, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling. Through innovative programs like SPIRE Institute and SPIRE Fit, the academy is dedicated to fostering comprehensive growth among its students.

With the new leadership in place, SPIRE Academy is set to embark on an ambitious journey aimed at achieving not only athletic superiority but also holistic development, redefining the future of sports academies and training environments.

For more information about SPIRE Academy and its programs, please visit spireacademy.com.