By Jessica Morrow
Reporter

The gym at Holt Crossing Intermediate has been buzzing with energy since the launch of the Team Tressel Fitness Challenge, a 90-day wellness program focused on fitness, nutrition, and sleep for students in grades 4–8.

Former Ohio State linebacker and South Western City Schools alum Tony Jackson introduced the challenge at Holt Crossing earlier this fall, sparking excitement throughout the school.

“The students were incredibly excited,” said teacher Ashley Scheiderer. “They kept asking, ‘Why us? Why did they pick Holt?’ It was an entry point for them to realize that they, too, could attend Ohio State and pursue sports of their choice.”

The program, part of Governor Mike DeWine’s statewide wellness initiative, encourages students to set “smart goals” in health and track their progress through Bronze, Silver, and Gold achievement levels. While the challenge is designed for individual progress, Mrs. Scheiderer sees it as a way to connect with her students outside the traditional classroom.

“Students don’t have scheduled wellness classes year-round, so this challenge has given me an opportunity to connect with them in new ways. It feels special to maintain that connection and talk about how they are achieving their goals.”

For Scheiderer, the challenge is about more than movement. “My goal is to help students find joy in exercise and build long-term positive relationships with sleep, nutrition, and fitness habits,” she said.

Students have already begun to show success in the program.

“I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve had to turn around and wipe tears away,” Scheiderer admitted. “I’ve loved each and every random muscle flex, each out-of-breath moment when a student says, ‘That felt so good!’ and the light in their eyes when they get the green light to add more weight. Seeing kids believe that fitness is for them is what drives me.”

Families are also playing a role in the program’s success. Some students have started walking to school, while others report their parents are joining in on fitness goals.

“Our parents are so dear to us at Holt. Their ‘buy-in’ is critical to the success of the student,” Scheiderer said.

The involvement of alumni like Tony Jackson and the potential for a visit from Lt. Governor Jim Tressel add to the excitement.

“There is this special buzz in the air when Tony is in my classroom. The kids watched him lift and do cardiovascular work in complete awe,” Scheiderer said. “Having the OSU Football legacy stamp behind this program makes it extra exciting.”

Looking ahead, Scheiderer hopes to see the program expand.

“This is my dream job. Combining my love for fitness and education is something special. Exercise is medicine, and I want every student to leave my class feeling more equipped to tackle their day,” Scheiderer said.

For Holt Crossing, the Team Tressel Fitness Challenge is more than a 90-day program. It’s a chance to build healthier habits, inspire confidence, and show students that fitness, like education, is for everyone.