Members By Choice, HumanKind by Nature
In the world of sports coaching, few people embody the spirit of community service quite like Ben and Kami McEnroe. Their journey, which began at Cal Lutheran University (CLU) in the 1990s, has evolved into a powerful force for positive change in the lives of countless student-athletes.
From their early days at Cal Lutheran, Ben and Kami recognized that their roles extended far beyond the field or gym. They started a tradition that would become the cornerstone of their coaching philosophy - hosting team meals in their home.
“Breaking bread with our student-athletes allows us to connect on a deeper level,” Kami explains. “It's about nourishing not just their bodies, but their minds and spirits too.”
This simple act of hospitality laid the foundation for a coaching approach that emphasizes holistic development and community engagement. When Ben was named head football coach at CLU in 2007, followed by Kami's appointment as head cheer coach, they seized the opportunity to expand their impact.
Their collaborative efforts blossomed into a range of outreach initiatives that included:
Each event was designed to help individual student-athletes and create meaningful connections within the broader community.
In 2023, their journey took them to Thousand Oaks High School, where Ben took over the football program. Here, they faced a new challenge - addressing the nutritional needs of high school athletes.
“We developed a comprehensive nutrition program,” Ben shares. “With support from local businesses, restaurants, and national brands, we're able to provide three meals per week during the season, plus healthy snacks throughout the school year.”
Their innovative approach goes beyond mere sustenance. “Protein is the cornerstone of our nutrition plan,” Kami adds. “We supplement meals with protein shakes and bars, ensure consistent hydration, and even use pickle juice to prevent cramping!”
But for this coaching duo, it's about more than physical nourishment. “Our philosophy is to instill healthy habits that young competitors will have for life,” Ben emphasizes.
Their positive impact extends far beyond nutrition and athletic performance. It’s evident that their student-athletes are surrounded by two people who lead with humility and grace, generously giving to those in need and expecting nothing in return. To many, Kami and Ben fill the role of a loving mother and father that these young teens do not have at home.
“Jonathon* struggled tremendously in his first couple of years of college,” Kami recalls. The McEnroes shared how Jonathon came from a broken home and had experienced a traumatic upbringing in a tough community. “Working multiple jobs and being away from home for the first time, he became a mainstay around our family.”
But Jonathon’s story doesn’t end there. This young man became a team leader, an incredible football talent, and the first in his family to graduate college. Jonathon went on to a successful career in professional football and is now a loving husband and father. “We couldn't be prouder,” Ben says, his voice filled with emotion.
Their advice for others looking to effect change in their community?
“Take every chance to help others and see the world through a lens of service,” Ben suggests. Kami nods in agreement, adding, “When you spend your time out in the community with an open heart and a desire to uplift others, it's easy to find opportunities to make a positive impact.”
As they continue their coaching journey, the McEnroes remain committed to their mission of nourishing bodies, minds, and spirits. Their story is a potent reminder that true coaching extends far beyond the field of play – it's about shaping lives and building communities, one meal, and one mentorship at a time.
About Ben and Kami McEnroe
Ben and Kami continue their work at Thousand Oaks High School, where they're not only building a successful football program but nurturing a community of well-rounded, health-conscious young adults. Their nutrition program serves as a model for high schools nationwide, and they're always looking for new ways to engage with and give back to their community.
In recognition of their extraordinary dedication to student-athletes and their community, we are honored to present Ben and Kami with Logix's HumanKind Honor.**
*Pseudonym used to protect privacy.
**Individuals featured in the HumanKind member campaign receive a $500 cash award, a token of appreciation for their selfless contributions to society.