Dr. McNeal serves as the President, Executive Director, and Chief Sports Mentor at WPDSports, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering the holistic development of collegiate student-athletes through a Christian lens. With a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by athletes, Dr. McNeal leverages his...
Dr. McNeal serves as the President, Executive Director, and Chief Sports Mentor at WPDSports, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering the holistic development of collegiate student-athletes through a Christian lens. With a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by athletes, Dr. McNeal leverages his extensive experience as a runner and educator to create a nurturing environment where student-athletes can thrive both on and off the field. His commitment to mentoring is rooted in the belief that sports serve as a powerful platform for personal and spiritual growth, allowing athletes to explore their identities in relation to God, others, and themselves.
At WPDSports, Dr. McNeal spearheads key initiatives that focus on holistic sports mentoring, emphasizing the importance of mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. He actively collaborates with coaching staff to establish a supportive framework that encourages student-athletes to develop leadership skills and cultivate a sense of community. His approach is characterized by reciprocal relationships, where mentorship is not just about guidance but also about learning and growth for both mentor and mentee.
Dr. McNeal’s expertise in followership, teaching, and coaching positions him as a vital resource for the next generation of leaders in sports. His passion for higher education and commitment to fostering an inclusive and encouraging atmosphere enables student-athletes to navigate their collegiate experiences with confidence and purpose. Through his work at WPDSports, Dr. McNeal is not only shaping the future of collegiate athletics but also instilling values that transcend the playing field, preparing athletes for impactful lives beyond their sports careers.