Empowering the Next Generation of Female Leaders — McKay High School

At McKay High School, four educators — Laura Lopez, Amanda Rivera, Chris Feskens and Ryan Kuboyama — are redefining what it means to be a student-athlete. Together, they founded the WIS3 UP Club, a program dedicated to ensuring young women don’t just play sports, but lead through them.

WIS3 UP stands for "Women in Sports - Engage, Equip, and Empower." The initiative was born from a simple but vital recognition: female athletes need a dedicated space to build confidence, leadership and a true sense of belonging.

Building a Network of Support

The impact of WIS3 UP stretches far beyond the sidelines. By intentionally bringing athletes together from every sport on campus, these leaders have woven a powerful safety net of mentorship. Through monthly lunches, BBQs, and team-bonding events, they have transformed a large school into a close-knit community where students build lasting relationships with peers they might never have met otherwise.

To ensure the next generation draws strength from those who came before, the team publishes a monthly newsletter. By highlighting women in sports history and celebrating local female role models, they provide a mirror for students to see their own potential reflected in the success of others.

"By fostering a culture where every female athlete feels welcomed and supported, these educators are helping students develop the confidence to thrive both on and off the field."
Chelsea Lofstedt, Assistant Principal at McKay High School

A Culture of Collective Leadership

While Laura, Amanda, Chris, and Ryan provided the spark, the flame is kept alive by the entire McKay community. From coaches who guest speak and lead workshops on empowerment to staff members who proudly wear the WIS3 UP t-shirts, the program has become a school-wide movement.

By providing intentional programming and shared experiences, these four leaders are doing more than coaching, they are shaping the next generation of empathetic, confident leaders. Through their extraordinary commitment, they have ensured that at McKay High School, female leadership is not just an elective; it is celebrated and inspired every single day.