Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine the strengths-based leadership approaches of highly successful athletic directors (ADs) in California's secondary comprehensive high schools and to describe, from their recommendations, how these leadership approaches can assist athletic directors as middle managers within the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) and the California State Athletic Directors Association (CSADA). Methodology. This study answered 4 research questions within a descriptive qualitative design. Data were obtained and analyzed utilizing an interview guide within 20 face-to-face interviews. Findings. Highly successful athletic directors are collaborative when problem solving, decision making, and leading change. Effective communication is imperative when managing conflict. Long-range planning is essential. ADs are extremely to very comfortable when decision making and planning. Through conversation and observation, highly successful athletic directors identify and develop the strengths in those they lead. It was recommended school leaders attend athletic conferences through CIF and CSADA to better support their ADs. Conclusions. It can be concluded from this study that highly successful ADs identified, developed, and applied their strengths as they worked toward fulfilling their leadership vision within their organizations. They additionally assisted others in their leadership charge to develop their individual strengths. Recommendations. A replication of this study to other states to compare the results to California, include junior or 4-year college ADs, use the Clifton Strengths-Finder Inventory to determine if the application of identified strengths are shared, compare strengths-based leadership approaches of highly successful athletic directors who have not been identified as highly successful.