Handshake America

Handshake America recognizes the importance of a proper handshake and what it may reveal about a person's character. Inspired by John Wooden's Pyramid of Success, the Handshake America Coaching Program utilizes its 5Ps (Perseverance, Passion, Positivity, People, and Presence) to help student-athletes learn the elements and definition of "success" while leveraging the experiences they have gained through athletics. Student-athletes are placed on a team with 3 Handshake America Coaches and 5 other student-athletes from area high schools. Our program consists of eight in-person Team Sessions throughout the calendar year, and upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded a postsecondary scholarship. Our program alumni become members of our National Team who are positively influencing communities in 24 states. Our coaching program may last for a year, but these student-athletes are Handshake America Teammates for a lifetime. We are continuously finding new ways to equip and encourage our Teammates in each new season of life.