Emerging Leaders – Connor Mezenberg '28

Connor Mezenberg '28 comes by leadership naturally. He is very devoted to his studies and has a passion for basketball. He is always thinking about strategy and tactics and his coaches are delighted to have him as a point-guard on the junior boys basketball team. Being point-guard requires brains and a solid understanding of team play. Connor recently took part in a coaching clinic with master coach Bev Greenlaw which further fueled his excitement for the upcoming season. He recently sat down to share his thoughts on leadership and how it plays a role in his life.

To me, being a leader means being somebody who steps up in whatever activity they take part in. It is someone who shows initiative and responsibility. A leader can also be someone in a group that people go to for help or support.

An example of leadership I have seen in another person is Dami Adeniji '25. Dami is our Head Boy this year, he speaks at every Wednesday morning assembly, and he does Monday announcements. He made me feel comfortable when I was one of the few Junior School students at a basketball clinic recently.

Recently, I created a practice plan for the upcoming junior boys basketball season to help new players on the team understand the game and to help the team improve. I showed initiative by bringing the practice plan to our Head Coach, Mr. Kevin Lakes before the season started.

My favorite quote came from an IKEA poster that I had in my room when I was younger, I'm not sure who the author is but the quote is “Dreams don’t work unless you do.” This implies that you should always follow your dreams, but they will not work if you do not work hard for them.

I try to lead by example, especially in class where I think it is important to come prepared and listen and respect the teachers when they are talking. I try to do the same on the soccer pitch and basketball court.