Meet Our Team
Dr. Edward Lazzara
Dr. Lazzara is a charismatic and dynamic educational leader who empowers coaches, students, athletes, parents, teachers, and organizational leaders to intentionally curate their inner circle and build their SQUAD. Through his proven SQUAD framework (Support – Question – Understand – Advise – Demand), he delivers practical strategies that strengthen relationships, improve organizational structure, boost engagement, and foster a Championship Culture.
Who is Your SQUAD?
Lee Rouson
Lee brings years of motivational speaking, professional business accumen, and nearly a decade of professional football experience. Special teams Player of the Year and a two time super bowl champion, he knows what it means to lead, to cultivate teamwork, and to win. Lee has been speaking throughout the country impacted people, schools and communities for over 20 years. Lee’s signature keynote “Who are you?” will challenge participants to dig deep, reflect honestly, and discover the inner Champion within themselves.
James Kramer
After several years in the coaching ranks and being named the Nike Coach of the Year in NJ and winning the first state championship at Mount Olive, Jimm retired from the sidelines. He has been an administrator at the middle and high school level for several years. Jimm has been instrumental in elevating academic achievement in his school district. In addition, Jimm has traveled and spoken internationally. Coach Kramer brings the GRIT and intensity it takes to forge Champions.
Jamie Baker
Jamie is an accomplished school administrator and coach with an extensive background in effective leadership. She currently serves as a director overseeing student support services and climate and culture programming. She collectively utilizes strong interpersonal skills, motivation, and content knowledge to enhance achievement and catalyze progress. Jamie possesses the knowledge and capability to promote change, lead by example and foster an effective culture with high expectations for growth and progress.
Jeff Salazar
Jeff, a two time world series champion – is the Outfield/Base Running Coordinator for the Los Angeles Dodgers, previously serving as their Hitting Coordinator and as Assistant Hitting Coach for the Colorado Rockies. Before coaching, he spent 11 years as a Major League Baseball outfielder with the Colorado Rockies, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Pittsburgh Pirates, earning two MiLB All-Star selections. Jeff will share professional strategies and tools used at the highest level of the game.
Dr. Jessica McKinney
A lifelong learner, Jessica earned her doctorate from Centenary University in 2022. Recognized as Counselor of the County, she also received the Educational Leadership Award for her impact on students and the community. Jessica actively serves on educational committees, shaping future leaders. Jessica will share strategies to overcome challenges and foster a culture of excellence in schools.
Stephen Baker
Stephen was drafted by the NY Giants in the 3rd round of the 1987 NFL Draft and played his entire six-year career with the team. Known as “The Touchdown Maker,” he helped secure a Super Bowl XXV victory by catching a touchdown in the Giants’ 20-19 win over Buffalo. Over his NFL career, he scored 21 touchdowns and proved that determination beats the odds. Inducted into the Fresno State Hall of Fame in 2008, he tallied 62 catches, 16 touchdowns, and a 26.3-yard average in two seasons. Today, Stephen mentors youth across New York and New Jersey, inspiring students to reach their full potential.
Tony Sorrentino
Tony is the Wide Receivers Coach for the Arizona Cardinals, rising through the ranks from high school to the NFL. In 2022, he played a key role in Justin Jefferson’s historic season, leading the league in receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809) while winning NFL Offensive MVP. Before Minnesota, Tony coached at NIU, helping secure a MAC Championship in 2021. His career includes stops at FAU, Tennessee, Miami, and The College of New Jersey. Tony will share insights on the determination and resilience needed to climb to the highest level in coaching.
Dr. Juan Garcia
Juan is a consummate speaker and an internationally recognized leadership development expert. He has been able to bring show stopping performances at conferences worldwide delivering evidence-based strategies that have an immediate impact. Juan has earned a Doctorate in Clinical Counseling and is Licensed in Brain Health. Juan also works with NBA, NFL and MLB athletes through mental toughness and peak performance. Juan has also authored numerous books. You can find his latest release here: I Said to my Love… I’ve Had Enough
Liam Murphy
Liam is a standout distance runner at Villanova University, holding school records in the 3000m (7:42.51), mile (3:53.85), and 5000m (13:21.20). A former All-American and Gatorade New Jersey Cross Country Athlete of the Year, he helped Villanova win BIG EAST and NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regional titles in 2022. Recognized as Villanova’s Senior Student-Athlete of the Year, he is also a two-time BIG EAST All-Academic Team selection. Liam will share insights on leadership, teamwork, and balancing high expectations in competitive sports.
CJ Lazzara
CJ is completing his senior year at the University of Hartford in Connecticut. He was the team captain at Roxbury HS in NJ, where they were conference champions, played for the state championship, and won the most games in school history. He was elected NJAC All-Conference his junior and senior years, as well as All Morris County, and an honor roll student. CJ will share his experience competing at the Division 1 level and the expectations of a student-athlete. He is a Dean’s List student majoring in sports management.
Samantha Lazzara
Samantha is completing her senior year at James Madison University in Virginia. Sam was chosen as an alternate however, she quickly worked to earn a full–time spot before the first game of her Freshman year. She has been a 4 year member of the team and was cheering JMU on at the College Football Playoff against Oregon. She was the team captain at Roxbury HS in NJ, a four-year letter winner, and an honor roll student. Sam will share her experience competing at the Division 1 level and the expectations of a student-athlete. She is a Dean’s List student majoring in communications.
Taylor Langan
Taylor is a standout basketball player from Rider University, where she was Team Captain, Rider Player of the Year (2023–24), and an All-MAAC selection. Known for her natural leadership and ability to elevate those around her, she recently signed to play professionally in Europe. Taylor will share insights on competing at the highest level, holding teammates accountable, and leading with authenticity.
Vikki Szabo
Vikki is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Supervisor who has worked with teens, young adults, and families for over 20 years. She currently serves as the Student Assistance Counselor at Sparta High School and is the co-founder of Girls on the Run NJ North, a nonprofit empowering young girls through running. A passionate mentor and advocate, Vikki will share insights on resilience, empowerment, and supporting youth in reaching their potential.
Sabrina Flores
Sabrina was a four-year starter and team captain at the University of Notre Dame, earning all ACC honors three times before being drafted in 2019 by Sky Blue FC. She went on to spend four seasons with NJ/NY Gotham FC in the National Women’s Soccer League and represented the United States in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Recently retired, she now mentors, coaches, and trains aspiring players. Sabrina will share her experiences competing at the highest level and giving back to the game.
Vanessa Benfatti
Vanessa made history as the first African American female athlete to play soccer at the University of Michigan. A standout at Morris Catholic, she was both a National and New Jersey State Champion in the 400m. She now teaches Physical Education at Mount Olive High School, where she has coached soccer, track, and cheer. A dedicated educator and mentor, Vanessa will share lessons on breaking barriers, balancing roles, and inspiring the next generation.
Angela Salisbury
Angela is a member of the Fairleigh Dickinson University Athletics Hall of Fame, a dedicated educator at Morris Knolls High School, and a successful realtor. With over 20 years of experience teaching and coaching a wide range of sports across all levels of high school athletics, she has built a reputation for developing both competitive excellence and character. Angela joins Championship Culture to share her proven, real-world approach to leadership and high standards. Her story is a living example that true champions are forged through grit, accountability, and unshakable standards—on the field, in the classroom, and in life.
Farsheed Taschayyodi
Coach T is the Head Football Coach at Garfield High School as well as an educator and entrepreneur. He is an energetic leader that is passionate about helping students reach their potential. He has over 20 years of experience coaching and teaching. He has won numerous championships and helped several athletes move on to the Division 1 level and the NFL. More importantly, he has challenged students to adopt a growth mindset and maximize their potential in the classroom. Farsheed specializes in Algebra, Geometry, and SAT Prep. He also teaches piano and violin.
Andre Williams
Andre was drafted in the 4th round of the NFL draft by the NY Giants. He spent 4 seasons in the NFL. Andre rushed for over 2,000 yards at Boston College and won the Doak Walker Award as the nation’s best running back. Andre has his B.A in Applied Psychology and Human development from Boston College and is the Author of After the Last Snap, When the Game Ends, Life Begins. Andre encourages participants to define what success looks like to them. You can find his book here: After the Last Snap