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ABOUT OAPA
Orange Arrow Players Association harnesses the power of sports to develop leaders off the field. Since 2013, OA has partnered with school districts, after-school programs, and youth sports leagues to equip student-athletes with the skills to succeed beyond the game. Through dynamic, sports-themed coaching and consulting, OA Coaches build culturally proficient teams, communities, and organizations. What began with student-athlete development has evolved into engaging professionals through interactive sports-based series and resources—all with the mission of coaching student-athletes to aim for success off the field.
Orange Arrow Symposium in Sports
OASIS brings together leaders to explore the intersection of sports, education, and professional development, building winning and high-performing teams. OASIS 2025, June 22 - 24 at the University of Pittsburgh, is dedicated to fostering winning culture that celebrates mental wellness, and holistic growth within sports and education. This year's symposium brings together administrators, educators, coaches, and stakeholders from various fields to exchange insights and strategies that empower individuals and teams to thrive. By focusing on mental wellness as a foundation for resilience and success, OASIS 2025 underscores the importance of creating supportive environments where every voice is valued and potential is maximized. Through interactive sessions, thought-provoking panels, and actionable workshops, attendees will gain tools to cultivate inclusive, high-performing teams that prioritize both personal well-being and professional success.
WIN TOGETHER
The Orange Arrow Symposium in Sports (OASIS) is excited to announce that legendary coach
Jim Tressel, former head coach of Ohio State and Youngstown State, will deliver the opening day keynote address at OASIS 2025.
This premier symposium serves as a unique resource for professionals working at the intersection of sports and education. Held from June 22- to June 24, 2025, at the University of Pittsburgh, the event serves as a unique resource for professionals working at the intersection of sports and education. Designed to foster both personal and professional growth, OASIS offers insights into how the principles of sports can be applied to create lasting impact in any team-centered environment.
Orange Arrow Players Association (OAPA) trains and supports current and former college student-athletes to coach grade school student-athletes, preparing them for success off the field. By leveraging the influence of athletes, OA connects elementary and middle school students with relatable role models who provide mentorship and guidance in essential life skills. Our approach fosters leadership, character development, and social-emotional growth, ensuring that young student-athletes develop the skills necessary for lifelong success.
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Through structured, sports-themed sessions, OAPA student-athletes lead engaging activities that emphasize communication, teamwork, financial literacy, social media responsibility, and mental wellness. Signature experiences, such as Training Table, introduce participants to etiquette, cross-cultural relationships, and decision-making strategies, reinforcing lessons learned in OA’s core programming.
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Methodology & Approach
To ensure a comprehensive and engaging experience, OAPA employs a structured, research-based approach.
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SUCCESS OFF THE FIELD
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