We sat down with SPIRE’s Head of Athletics, Jeff Javorek, to talk about his athletic experience, his passions and successes as well as his much-needed role at the Academy. With a Master’s degree in Athletic Administration, a strong background in coaching, player development, video and scouting, Jeff has had a significant impact on the success of SPIRE.

Q: Did you imagine yourself being in the position you are currently in? What were some larger stepping stones that led you to where you are today?

A: My goal was always to work in sports and this role allowed me to remain in the Cleveland area and use my background and experience in both coaching and athletic directing. I had the opportunity to play collegiate sports at John Carroll University and obtained a Master’s Degree in Athletic Administration from Ohio University. I was afforded the opportunity to coach in the NBA Development League for several years with the Erie Bayhawks who at the time were affiliated with the New York Knicks, where I really learned from some best coaches, general managers and leaders in professional sports.

Q: What does your day-to-day look like as Head of Athletics? What do you look forward to as a leader at SPIRE?

A: A typical day is strategizing and developing new growth plans for our sports programs. I then check in with all of the coaches during their practices and training times. I touch base with our performance and mental skills teams and finally work with our Head of School and academic staff to connect how the student athletes are doing in school and residential life.

Q: What do you do outside of work? Are there any hobbies/passion projects you have that you’d like to share?

A: I enjoy playing golf when I get the time to do so, but I stay rather busy outside of work with my 4 sons Cameron, Caden, Casey and Logan.

Q: What’s a cause you support & why?

A: I am on the Board of Directors for the Northeast Ohio Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. I am an active member because my son Caden has Cystic Fibrosis.

Q: What can you attribute your personal/career success to? What wisdom do you want to pass along to SPIRE student athletes?

A: I can attribute my personal success to the life lessons learned from playing sports growing up. The wisdom I want to pass along to students is to teach them the skills they can use to be successful in sports are the same which will allow them to be successful in life.

Q: What’s your go-to album/song for the summer?

A: No particular song but I am a big Country fan.

Q: What does your ideal vacation look like?

A: Relaxing on the Beach.

Q: If you could have a superpower, which would you choose?

A: The ability to fly!

Q: Do you have any final thoughts or anything you would like to share?

A: I am incredibly honored and humbled to be a part of such a great team and organization here at SPIRE. The future is bright at SPIRE as we continue to grow to the next level.

You can read more about Jeff Javorek here!