In In May 2017, 26 college coaches and administrators from across the country came together in Isle of Palms, South Carolina, for an all-inclusive retreat built around professional development, connection, and the future of college athletics.

More than anything, the retreat created an opportunity for people at different stages of their careers to build genuine relationships and expand their networks. More than nine years later, many of those relationships remain—and many of those careers have taken remarkable turns.

A Division II assistant became a high-major assistant. A high-major assistant earned his opportunity to become a Division I Head Coach. Young administrators grew into senior leadership roles and Athletic Directors. Across the group, careers advanced, opportunities opened, and relationships formed in 2017 continued to matter long after the retreat ended.

These are their stories…