SALT at Decatur Central High School

The Decatur Central High School Athletic Department is nationally recognized as an Exemplary Program by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. This recognition encompasses not only the elite performances of the DC Hawks athletic teams, but also the behind the scenes work that not only develops student athletic skill, but also leadership, service, sportsmanship and more. The Decatur Central Student Athletic Leadership Team (SALT) is just one example of what makes Hawks Athletics elite!

The Decatur Central Student Athletic Leadership Team (SALT) was established to provide an additional layer of player development for student athletes. Using the Champions 101 Curriculum, student-athletes have the opportunity to: 

• reflect on their personal effectiveness within our athletic program 
• contribute to an elite culture
• develop themselves as leaders within our school and community
• build additional skills for college, career, and life beyond athletics
• initiate service opportunities in support of the local community
• encourage sportsmanship from athletes, coaches, and fans at athletic events  
• act as a liaison between student-athletes and the Athletic Department

This group is made up of 78 Sophomores and Juniors nominated by their respective head coaches and recognized as "influencers" in the athletic program.  Athletic Director Justin Dixson shared, “These hardworking student-athletes understand that winning is our goal, but developing winners is our purpose.”

SALT has 17 strategic meetings/trainings throughout the school year, and special projects as well such as the annual community clean-up in the spring, in collaboration with the DCHS SOAR club. Mr. Dixson explained the impact of this program: “By understanding that leaders create culture, culture drives behavior, and behavior produces results, this group is working to individually grow and improve to have a greater impact on our community.”