Academics
Stan Kasten Academy of Sports Science & Management
The Stan Kasten Academy of Sports Science and Management
The Stan Kasten Academy of Sports Science and Management (The Kasten Academy) is a launchpad for future leadership in sports science, medicine, fitness, management, and business. Through specialized coursework, hands-on internships, research opportunities, and field studies, students connect classroom concepts to industry practice and prepare for careers in the sports industry and other realms of business entrepreneurship.
The Kasten Academy offers an immersive, career-focused experience for students passionate about sports, business, and entrepreneurship. Designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, the SKASSM provides specialized tracks in sports nutrition, sports medicine, exercise science, sports law, and sports management.
With customized coursework, mentorship, and professional experiences, The Kasten Academy mirrors college-level programs, giving students an early competitive edge. By working alongside industry professionals and applying their knowledge in real-world settings, students graduate with practical skills, leadership experience, and a clear pathway toward success.
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About Stan Kasten
Mr. Kasten’s distinguished career spans decades of leadership across multiple major sports leagues. He currently serves as President and CEO of the Los Angeles Dodgers and previously held executive leadership roles with the Washington Nationals, Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Hawks, and Atlanta Thrashers, as well as overseeing the development of Turner Field and Philips Arena. He has also contributed to the Olympic Committee in Atlanta and now contributes to the Los Angeles Olympic Committee, further demonstrating his commitment to advancing global athletic excellence. Most recently, he has played a pivotal role in the launch of the Professional Women’s Hockey League and has been actively involved with the Los Angeles Sparks, championing equity and opportunity in sports.
A longtime Atlanta resident and steadfast supporter of Jewish communal life, Mr. Kasten is the son of Holocaust survivors, a yeshiva scholar, and a quiet but passionate advocate for Jewish values and education.List of 1 items.
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The Weber School Announces The Stan Kasten Academy of Sports Science and Management
The Weber School is proud to announce the naming of its signature academic program in athletic education as The Stan Kasten Academy of Sports Science and Management, in honor of one of the most accomplished and respected executives in professional sports, Stan Kasten.This naming recognizes a generous gift from Stan and Helen Kasten and their family and celebrates Mr. Kasten’s extraordinary career and enduring impact on the world of sports, Jewish life, and education. A longtime Atlanta resident and steadfast supporter of Jewish communal life, Mr. Kasten is the son of Holocaust survivors, a yeshiva scholar, and a quiet but passionate advocate for Jewish values and education.Mr. Kasten’s distinguished career spans decades of leadership across multiple major sports leagues. He currently serves as President and CEO of the Los Angeles Dodgers and previously held executive leadership roles with the Washington Nationals, Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Hawks, and Atlanta Thrashers, as well as overseeing the development of Turner Field and Philips Arena. He has also contributed to the Olympic Committee in Atlanta and now contributes to the Los Angeles Olympic Committee, further demonstrating his commitment to advancing global athletic excellence. Most recently, he has played a pivotal role in the launch of the Professional Women’s Hockey League and has been actively involved with the Los Angeles Sparks, championing equity and opportunity in sports.“I’m deeply honored to have my name associated with The Stan Kasten Academy of Sports Science and Management,” said Stan Kasten. “Weber’s commitment to academic excellence and character development is evident in all its academies—from STEM and the arts to entrepreneurship and Jewish leadership. I feel incredibly fortunate to join other supporters in helping Weber empower students to discover their unique niche and pursue their highest potential. My hope is that the Academy, alongside the others, will continue to distinguish Weber as a school that prepares young people not just for college and careers, but for lives of purpose and impact.”The newly named Stan Kasten Academy of Sports Science and Management will continue to offer Weber students a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore careers in sports science, medicine, fitness, management, and business. Through specialized coursework, internships, and mentorship from industry professionals, students gain real-world experience and graduate with an Honors Diploma that sets them apart in college and beyond. Beginning in the 2025–2026 school year, the Academy will launch a new course in Sports Media and Film, equipping students with the tools to produce and promote athletic content through digital and video platforms.“The Stan Kasten Academy provides me with firsthand professional experiences while in high school, while setting me up for success in college,” said Sophie Simonoff ’25. “Without this program, I would not feel as confident in my skills or have had so many opportunities. I am so grateful to graduate this year with an Honors Diploma from The Stan Kasten Academy, and I highly recommend the program to future Weber students.”Mason Maslia ’25 agreed. “The most valuable part of this Academy at Weber is how it challenges me to step into real-world environments like the ones I’ll encounter in my future career,” he said. “Through experiences in my sports internship, I have gained skills in planning, marketing, and management, and developed confidence that will stay with me long after graduation. Earning the Honors Diploma from The Stan Kasten Academy reflects not just my academic work, but also the real learning that has prepared me for college and beyond.”“We are profoundly grateful to the Kasten family for this investment in The Weber School. The Stan Kasten Academy of Sports Science and Management reflects Weber’s commitment to producing the next generation of highly skilled, ethically informed professionals in professional athletics,” said Melissa Drish, Dean of The Stan Kasten Academy of Sports Science and Management.Rabbi Ed Harwitz, Head of School, expresses the appreciation and enthusiasm on the part of the entire Weber School community, noting that “graduates of The Stan Kasten Academy of Sports Science and Management will gain an education that prepares them for advanced study and professional work in college and careers through an academy that carries the name of an individual who exemplifies excellence in professional athletics and the highest values of Jewish tradition. The Kasten Academy is a powerful expression of Weber’s mission to integrate rigorous academics with meaningful character development and Jewish identity.”
Students select a specialized path aligned with their passions and career goals.
Sports Management and Law
For students drawn to the business, legal, and operational side of sports, this track explores sport marketing, team management, event planning, and sports law. Students gain a strong foundation in business operations, financial management, and communications, preparing them for leadership roles in professional and collegiate athletics, sports agencies, and event organizations.
Course of Study:
Course of Study:
- Foundations of Sport Science and Management (1 semester)
- Health and Wellness OR Weight Training OR Team Sports (1 semester)
- Sport Management and Entertainment (1 Semester)
- Sport Policy and Law (1 Semester)
- Sports Internship (1 semester)
- Research Methods and Analysis (Yearlong)
Sports Nutrition and Exercise
Ideal for students passionate about the science of performance, fitness, and well-being, this track dives into nutrition strategies, dietary planning, and personalized fitness program development. With a focus on optimizing athletic performance and overall health, students explore the latest research in exercise science, strength training, and wellness coaching.
Course of Study:
Course of Study:
- Foundations of Sport Science and Management (1 semester)
- Health and Wellness OR Weight Training OR Team Sports (1 semester)
- Introduction to Nutrition and Exercise (Yearlong)
- Sports Internship (1 semester)
- Research Methods and Analysis (Yearlong)
Sports Medicine
Designed for students interested in athletic training, physical therapy, and healthcare careers, this track covers injury prevention, rehabilitation techniques, kinesiology, and emergency care. Through hands-on learning, students develop a strong foundation in medical terminology and treatment protocols, preparing them for advanced studies in sports medicine and allied health fields.
Course of Study:
Course of Study:
- Foundations of Sport Science and Management (1 semester)
- Health and Wellness OR Weight Training OR Team Sports (1 semester)
- Introduction to Sports Medicine (Yearlong)
- Sports Internship (1 semester)
- Research Methods and Analysis (Yearlong)
Internship Experience
A defining feature of The Kasten Academy is the required internship, where students gain real-world experience in their chosen field. Each student completes a 30-hour in-person internship under the guidance of a professional mentor, applying classroom knowledge in sports science, medicine, fitness, or management settings.
This early industry exposure gives The Kasten Academy students a competitive edge when applying for college programs, certifications, and future careers. Whether shadowing athletic trainers, assisting with fitness programming, or working alongside sports business professionals, students graduate with practical skills, professional connections, and a clear vision for their future.
Cultivating Critical Thinkers
Beyond coursework and internships, The Kasten Academy students take on the challenge of designing and conducting their own research through the Research Methods and Analysis Honors course. This hands-on experience mirrors college-level research, allowing students to:
- Identify a compelling sports science or management research question
- Collect and analyze real-world data
- Conduct experiments or observational studies
- Present their findings in a formal research paper and presentation
The Weber School
The Weber School, a Jewish Community high school serving students from all Jewish backgrounds, prepares students for success in college and in life with comprehensive academic and co-curricular programs that inspire student exploration, leadership, and Jewish social consciousness. Many of our programs and academies are unique to Weber and can't be found at any other Atlanta-area high schools.
The Felicia Penzell Weber Jewish Community High School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.
The Felicia Penzell Weber Jewish Community High School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.
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