After 15 years serving the Lakeland Central School District, Rebecca DiSisto-Leslie is leaving her role as director of physical education, health and athletics to become Section 1's supervisor of athletics and physical education.
“It definitely wasn't an easy decision because Lakeland has been such a big part of my life,” said DiSisto-Leslie, a 2007 Lakeland High School graduate. “After spending the past 15 years there as a teacher, coach, athletic coordinator, supervisor, and director, it has always felt like home. I'll always be grateful for the opportunities Lakeland gave me and for the relationships I built along the way.”
At the same time, DiSisto-Leslie, a two-time Lakeland Hall of Famer, feels she was ready for a new challenge and an opportunity to expand her impact beyond a single district.
“Through my work as a Section 1 sport chair and committee member, I've really enjoyed collaborating with schools across the section,” she said. “When the Supervisor of Athletics and Physical Education position became available, it felt like a natural next step.”
What excites her most is the opportunity to work with and support all of Section 1’s member schools.
“Instead of focusing on one district, I now have the chance to collaborate with athletic directors, coaches, and school leaders throughout Section 1 to help strengthen educational athletics and physical education and create great experiences for student-athletes,” DiSisto-Leslie said.
Leaving Lakeland schools was a difficult decision for DiSisto-Leslie.
“Lakeland isn't just where I worked — it's where I grew up,” she said. “I was fortunate to attend Lakeland, compete as a student-athlete, and then return to build my career as a coach and administrator. There aren't many people who get the opportunity to give back to the same community that helped shape them, and I'll always be grateful that I had that chance.”
The relationships she built with students, coaches, teachers, families, and colleagues are something DiSisto-Leslie will always value, and leaving those behind is certainly emotional.
“I'll always consider myself part of the Lakeland family, but I'm excited for the opportunity to take what I learned there and support schools and student-athletes throughout Section 1,” she said.
DiSisto-Leslie had the unique experience while as an athletic administrator of having her sisters, Leah DiSisto, as head coach and Marissa, as the assistant coach of the Lakeland/Panas girls lacrosse team.
“It was definitely a special experience and something I’ll always look back on with a lot of pride,” she said. “We all understood our roles. On the field, we were professionals, but at the end of the day, we’re also siblings who care deeply about each other and about the program. “
She added that her sisters “are both outstanding coaches who have made a tremendous impact on their student-athletes, and it was incredibly rewarding to watch them help young people grow as players, leaders, and individuals.”
As a student-athlete at Lakeland, DiSisto-Leslie played girls basketball for Steve Fallo and field hockey for Sharon Sarsen, winning state titles in both sports as a senior. Each championship team was inducted into the Lakeland Hall of Fame in 2015.
“Winning two state championships in my senior year was an incredible experience, but what has stayed with me the most are the lessons I learned from my coaches, teammates, and the culture they created,” DiSisto-Leslie said. “Coaches like Steve Fallo and Sharon Sarsen taught me the importance of hard work, accountability, teamwork, resilience, and putting others before yourself.”
Those experiences had a tremendous impact on her career and shaped the way she approaches leadership as an athletic administrator.
“They showed me the positive influence athletics can have on young people, and I’ve always wanted to help create those same meaningful experiences for today’s student-athletes,” DiSisto-Leslie said. “While championships are memorable, it’s the relationships, life lessons, and personal growth that truly make the greatest impact.”
As for her new job, DiSisto-Leslie believes it’s important to listen, learn, and continue building relationships with athletic directors, officials, coaches, and department staff throughout Section 1.
“I want to gain a deeper understanding of the needs of our member schools and find meaningful ways to support them,” DiSisto-Leslie said.
“I’m focused on enhancing the student-athlete experience by promoting education-based athletics, improving communication, and helping schools navigate the ever-changing landscape of high school sports. Ultimately, I want to be a trusted resource and make a positive impact across the section.”
At the time Yorktown News spoke with DiSisto-Leslie on July 30, no replacement had been appointed.
“Whoever has the opportunity to step into the role will be incredibly fortunate. Lakeland has outstanding coaches, teachers, and student-athletes who make it a truly special place,” DiSisto-Leslie said. “I wish the next director nothing but success.”
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here