From Game Skills to Life Skills: The Transformative Power of Athletics at Peck

The Peck School’s Athletic Director Scott Dobbs summarizes the philosophy and goals of the program beautifully.

Put simply, it’s not just about creating athletes; it’s about developing character.

From kindergarten through eighth grade, sports at Peck go far beyond the basics. Teamwork is more than just passing the ball, challenges are embraced as opportunities to develop resilience, and leadership is nurtured in every huddle.

In our program, sports serve as a powerful platform to instill core values like empathy, perseverance, and integrity, while fostering a close-knit community.

We want our students to walk away from their sports experiences not just with skills in a particular sport, but with a stronger sense of self and how they relate to the people around them.

-Scott Dobbs, Director of Athletics

Soft Skills in Action

With an intentional focus on soft skills, Peck’s athletics program equips students with an ethical foundation they’ll use throughout their lives.

Whether it’s shaking hands after a game or strategizing with peers during a timeout, these moments foster critical skills like resilience, communication, and emotional intelligence.

As Physical Education Teacher and Coach Laura Caruso notes, these lessons are deeply tied to the unpredictable nature of athletics.

“In sports, you’re constantly adapting, pivoting, and pushing forward, which teaches resilience and perseverance,” she says.

"It’s about adjusting in the moment, learning from mistakes, and moving forward—lessons that extend beyond sports and into life, helping students build the grit to face whatever comes their way."

Students are also actively taught to prioritize sportsmanship, including being encouraged to check on opponents who may have faltered during a play.

“We tell our students, ‘If you see someone struggling, take a moment to help,’” shares Dobbs. “That simple act of noticing and responding builds a sense of responsibility to others.”

Team collaboration is another cornerstone of Peck’s approach. Teachers and coaches design activities and drills that require students to think collectively, problem-solve, and support each other.

Games like “treasure rescue” or team scrimmages emphasize these skills while keeping the experience fun and engaging.

Against this backdrop, athletic skill development blossoms as students learn that their success is intertwined with the success of their teammates.

The supportive environment at Peck nurtures both individual growth and team cohesion, creating a space where skills are sharpened and confidence is built.

“When students feel encouraged, trusted, and valued, they become not only more capable athletes but also better communicators and problem-solvers,” says Physical Education Teacher and Coach Molly Donnelly.

“As they learn to work together, they grow into athletes who understand that true success lies in collective effort and mutual support—rising not only through their own efforts but by lifting others as well.”

The Broader Impact

Beyond physical fitness, Peck’s athletics program fosters a profound sense of belonging. Co-ed activities, for example, encourage students to respect and value different perspectives, while team sports create bonds that transcend grade levels.

“When our students hit the field, they feel a sense of pride—not just in their skills but in the community they’re part of,” says Physical Education Teacher and Coach Adam Spadafora. “They know they’re contributing to something bigger than themselves.”

This emphasis on community is a hallmark of Peck’s approach, aligning with the school’s broader mission to cultivate compassionate, capable individuals.

By combining movement, character education, and a commitment to teamwork, the athletics program creates an environment where every student can thrive.

At The Peck School, sports are more than just games—they’re life lessons in action.

Through intentional coaching, innovative activities, and a focus on character development, the athletics program shapes students into leaders and teammates prepared to succeed in all areas of life.

“When our students leave Peck, they carry with them not just memories of victories and plays but a strong foundation of values that will guide them for years to come,” says Dobbs. “That’s the true goal of what we do.”

In every practice, game, and moment on the field, Peck’s athletics program is building athletes and compassionate, capable individuals ready to make a difference in the world.