Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s Athletic Department is proud to announce the launch of Game Plan for Life, a new initiative designed to help senior student-athletes prepare for life beyond collegiate athletics. Led by outside executive coaches Jay Millar and Kylene Ruth, the year-long program focuses on cultivating life skills like fostering self-awareness, financial literacy, career readiness, and personal growth to help participants confidently navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead as they enter the next phase of life.
“The support of this program has been absolutely incredible and they have provided me with so much insight and advice on how to achieve success in all aspects of my life moving forward,” Saint Mary’s graduate and women’s hockey athlete, Allie Urlaub shares. “I can confidently say I have grown so much in relationships with friends and peers in how to make a positive impact and culture — whether that be on a sports team, in the workplace, in the classroom, or any other clubs and activities I participate in.”
Made possible by the generous support of Tom and Annie Kiemel and family, “Game Plan for Life” equips graduating student-athletes with the tools, resources, and connections necessary to successfully transition into their next chapter — whether that be advanced academic programs, the workforce, or other professional pursuits.
“We are blessed to have the support of the Kiemel Family and this game changing innovative program for our student-athletes for the next five years to assist in their transition and next phase of their life journeys,” said Brian Sisson, Saint Mary’s athletic director. “The executive coaches — Jay and Kylene — will continue to provide a differentiating impact to our student-athletes that is at the heart of our university’s mission.”
Life after college — and life after collegiate athletics — is full of change and opportunities for growth. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is committed to supporting students not just during their college careers but throughout their lifelong journeys. Through “Game Plan for Life,” the university continues its tradition of holistic education and leadership development, ensuring that its graduates are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
“As a former college student athlete, I understand the challenges associated with leaving behind the identity that sport provides. There are many lessons learned during an athletic journey that can be applied to a professional life post-college,” Kylene Ruth, Game Plan for Life executive coach, shares. “This program is designed for leaders seeking a community of like-minded individuals to assist in transitioning from student athlete to confident young professional. During the program, participants will explore their personal thoughts, feelings, and needs and learn methods to harness their strengths to succeed in life. I am so excited to share valuable insights and facilitate self-discovery for program participants at the start of their journey.”
About the Coaches
Jay Millar is the Founder of My Virtual Dad and Confident Man Enterprises LLC, and author of the book “Be a Hero In Your Home: The Ultimate Playbook for Men to Succeed at Home, Work in Life,” Jay Millar offers invaluable resources to men striving for familial success. Jay is a first-generation college graduate from the University of Colorado where he received a degree in Engineering Physics and MBA.
Kylene Ruth is the CEO of Falcon Performance Partners LLC, a certified executive coach, and an insights discovery licensed practitioner. She served for 20 years in the U.S. Air Force leading teams of hundreds of highly trained military professionals at home and deployed. Kylene now works with leaders looking to make lasting positive change in themselves and their teams. She holds a Master of Science Degree in Educational Psychology from Florida State University, a Master of Military Operational Art and Science Degree from Air University, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Behavioral Sciences – Human Factors Engineering from the U.S. Air Force Academy.
