In this episode of Building a Champion, we visit Cherry Creek High School, home of the 2024–25 MaxPreps Cup national champions — recognized as the top high school athletic program in America.
Athletic Director Jason joins us to share how the Bruins captured nine state titles, achieved multiple national rankings, and built a model culture of excellence grounded in tradition, accountability, and community pride.
From third- and fourth-generation Creekers to a new athletics-only facility breaking ground soon, this episode dives deep into what makes Cherry Creek’s success so sustainable — and why it’s about much more than trophies.
🎧 Listen now to learn how intentional leadership and strong community ties build champions year after year.
⏱️ Chapter Markers
- 00:00 – Generations of Creekers & community pride
- 01:00 – Being named the nation’s top athletic program
- 04:30 – Balancing expectations and handling the spotlight
- 07:15 – Nine state titles and unforgettable championship moments
- 10:20 – Youth programs, feeder schools, and community engagement
- 13:00 – Legacy families and multi-generational pride
- 16:30 – The “secret sauce” behind Cherry Creek’s culture
- 18:30 – What’s next: a full campus rebuild and new athletic facility
- 23:25 – Game Time Decisions: rapid-fire questions with AD Jason
🎯 Show Notes Highlights
- Nine state championships in one school year — including football, soccer, baseball, lacrosse, tennis, and golf
- First Colorado school ever to win the MaxPreps Cup for the nation’s top athletic program
- How Cherry Creek maintains a culture of high expectations and humility under constant spotlight
- The power of youth programs and community engagement in building long-term success
- Legacy families: third- and fourth-generation Creekers keeping tradition alive
- The importance of leadership that values both preparation and presence
- A sneak peek at Cherry Creek’s new athletics facility, opening 2028
- Why Jason believes leadership starts with making someone else’s day better
