Introducing Our New Enrichment Coordinator, Leila Cleofe

With her new position as Enrichment Coordinator, Leila Cleofe will oversee off the mat activities and programs that sharpen our athlete’s ability to succeed in the classroom & in the workforce. 

Leila joins the team after teaching at Gunsaulus Scholastic Academy & Heritage Middle school, both of which are schools in the Chicago-land area. Prior to that, Cleofe attended Pacific University and was a member of their women’s wrestling team. After studying abroad, Cleofe earned a degree in science journalism from Columbia College in Chicago before attaining her Masters of Arts & Teaching from National Lewis University. 

A native of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Cleofe developed her love for wrestling at a young age. Born into a wrestling family, Cleofe would tag along to her brother’s practice before falling in love with the sport herself. Cleofe’s wrestling journey continued after moving to Florida for high school, in which she became a State Champion & 3x All-American. 

Cleofe’s main focus will be on our after-school programs, the Life-Champions Academy, & our summer enrichment camps. All of which add much needed structure to our wrestler’s lives. She will look to expose our youth to new ideas and give them experiences they might otherwise miss out on. Her enthusiasm for learning helped her grow to become an innovative educator that encourages students to drive their own learning. 

The ability to combine both of her passions, wrestling & teaching, is what pulled Cleofe towards this role. One of her achievements she is most proud of is the relationships she has built with students and the confidence they walk away with, on and off the mat.

Cleofe’s presence will undoubtedly make a positive impact the lives of Chicago youth & we are looking forward to having Cleofe on board to help further our mission. 

For questions, contact lcleofe@btschicago.org