The University of South Florida’s Physical Education program had a powerful presence at the 2025 SHAPE Florida Convention, held September 25–27 in Saint Augustine, Florida. From presenting innovative teaching strategies to connecting with state leaders and celebrating major awards, USF students and faculty made their mark on Florida’s largest gathering of health and physical education professionals.
The event began with an invaluable networking opportunity: USF students participated in the Council of District Administrators (CODA) meeting, where they engaged directly with district leaders in physical education from across Florida. As part of the meeting, students joined roundtable discussions with district administrators to explore professional opportunities and learn how leadership decisions shape K–12 physical education programs. This experience gave them a behind-the-scenes perspective on advocacy and career pathways within the field.
Senior PE major Skylar Burns reflected on the experience: “This is a great experience and opportunity to connect with all the different counties in the state of Florida and learn from veteran teachers and administrators who have been successful for a very long time.”
One of the highlights of the conference was the student-led session, “Quick Start: Instant Activities for Energizing PE Classes.” Senior PE majors developed the presentation as part of their PET 4401 course, Classroom Management, Organization, & Administration of PE, under the guidance of Craig Nieman, Assistant Professor of Instruction and Undergraduate Program Coordinator in Physical Education, and Sara Flory, Professor in Physical Education. They then presented their work at the conference, sharing strategies for implementing instant activities—techniques teachers can use to get students active and engaged from the moment class begins, strengthening both classroom management and student learning.
For students, this was their first experience presenting at a statewide professional conference. Senior Jeremy Reardon shared: “This was such a great opportunity to connect with classmates and present in front of future peers. I did not think I would have opportunity during my time in college, but I’m very grateful for the experience.”
Faculty also took the stage to share insights with colleagues. Nieman and Flory co-presented “The State of PETE in Florida: A Collegial Discussion,” a session designed to bring together physical education teacher education (PETE) faculty across the state to reflect on current challenges and opportunities in preparing future teachers.
The conference also served as a stage to honor excellence across Florida, where USF Physical Education students and faculty shined among the state’s top professionals, taking home four major awards.
- Craig Nieman received the SHAPE Florida Education Leadership Award, which recognizes professionals who demonstrate outstanding leadership and service in advancing health and physical education across the state. His recognition highlights both his impact on preparing future teachers at USF and his broader contributions to professional growth in Florida schools.
- Jordan Barnes, earned the Outstanding Future Professional Award, presented each year to a SHAPE Florida student member who demonstrates scholarship and service to the school, community, and profession. It is the highest honor given to undergraduates preparing for careers in physical education, and Barnes’ academic success and leadership made him a standout recipient.
- Lindsey Nichols and Kayla Unterweiser were named recipients of the Katherine Montgomery Scholarship, awarded to future professionals enrolled in teacher education programs across Florida who demonstrate strong academics, leadership, and active involvement in SHAPE Florida. The scholarship includes both recognition and financial support to help recipients continue toward their professional goals.
Reflecting on the experience, Nieman shared: “This conference was an incredible opportunity for our students to step into the professional community, share practical strategies with practicing teachers, and learn directly from leaders in the field. We are so proud of how they represented USF and the future of physical education.”
For USF’s Physical Education program, SHAPE Florida wasn’t just a conference—it was a chance to connect, share, and celebrate. Students left inspired by their new professional networks and real-world presentation experience, while faculty, colleagues, and alumni were recognized for their leadership and commitment to the field. Together, their impact highlighted USF’s role in shaping the future of health and physical education in Florida and beyond.