EMPOWERED ATHLETES
Where girls build confidence, leadership, and skill - through sport.
At Empowered Athletes, we believe sports are more than just games — they’re powerful tools for developing strong, confident, and capable young women. Our camps are designed to empower girls through movement, mentorship, and meaningful experiences that go far beyond the field.
Led by Coach Cole Richardson, Lakewood Ranch High School’s head varsity girls soccer coach, our programs are rooted in over a decade of youth coaching expertise, a passion for leadership, and a belief in the strength of the next generation of female athletes.
What's Your Favorite Part of Camp?

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2025 Session Dates
Summer Registration is now open. Please register as soon as possible in order to ensure your child gets a spot! Camp fills up very quickly.
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2025 SUMMER CAMP OFFERINGS:
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All Girls Sports Camp
Incoming 1st-8th Graders
June 16-19
@Lakewood Ranch High School
9:00AM - 2:00PM
-WAITLIST ONLY-
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Coaches-In-Training (CIT) Camp
Incoming 9th-12th Graders
June 16-19
@Lakewood Ranch High School
8:00AM - 3:00PM
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Incoming 6th-12th Graders
July 21-24
@Lakewood Ranch High School
9:00AM - 2:00PM
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2025-2026 WINTER CAMP:
TBA
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WHY EMPOWERED ATHLETES?
Because every girl deserves a space to grow — as an athlete, as a leader, and as herself.
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Empowered Athletes was created to do more than teach sports skills — we’re here to help girls build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging through positive, intentional coaching. Our camps give girls of all levels the opportunity to try new things, improve their game, and discover just how powerful they really are.
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Each of our camps offers something different — but they’re all rooted in the same purpose:
Confidence Comes First
Whether they’re learning how to dribble for the first time or leading a group as a CIT, every girl is encouraged to show up bravely and be herself. We prioritize effort, celebrate progress, and create a judgment-free space where confidence can grow.
Skill-Driven, Fun-Focused
From multi-sport play to technical indoor soccer training, our sessions are structured to build real athletic skill — without the pressure of play time. Girls leave our camps stronger, faster, and more excited about being active.
Leadership at Every Level
Leadership isn’t just for older athletes. In every camp, we create opportunities for girls to take initiative, work as a team, and speak up — and in our Coaches in Training program, teens take it even further, earning certifications and coaching experience they can carry into high school and beyond.
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An All-Girls Community That Lifts Each Other Up
There’s power in an all-girls space. Our campers feel safe to try, fail, lead, and cheer each other on without fear of judgment. It’s not just about building athletes — it’s about building friendships, community, and self-worth.
wHAT DO I need for camp?
We will be playing sports both indoors and outdoors.
MUST HAVES/WEARS:
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A pair of sneakers
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Athletic shirt and appropriate length shorts
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Water bottle
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RECOMMENDED:
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Sunscreen
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Hat
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Sunglasses
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Small Towel
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IN REGARDS TO FOOD:
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School lunch will be offered for FREE through the Manatee County School System (except on June 19). We do not know the menu ahead of time, however it is usually chicken / mac and cheese type of items.
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June 19 - we will have a lunch option for purchase available, or bring a boxed lunch. No free school lunch available.
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Concessions will be for sale at our camp. We will be offering full lunches, snacks, and drinks for purchase. Please buy CONCESSION CREDIT as we will NOT be handling cash on site.​​
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We pride ourselves in offering healthy options that are typically free of food dyes and added sugars. We do not sell candy.​
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You are always welcome to BRING YOUR OWN lunch that does not require refrigeration or heating. Be sure to label lunch bag with your name.
Meet Your Coaches
Your coaches have a wide background in coaching AND playing sports and are excited to work with the campers to discover how awesome sports really are! Our coaches have invested themselves in the world of sports through certifications, licenses, and dedication to our youth through coaching and mentoring. Not only will campers get to work with Coach Richardson, Coach Jester, and Coach Ashlyn, but they will also meet current High School Student Athletes and Alumni Coaches!

Coach Richardson
Lakewood Ranch High Girls Varsity Soccer Coach, USSF C License, USATF Level 1
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Other Experience:
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UF DI Track & Field Athlete - Hurdles
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8 Years as Head Varsity HS Soccer Coach
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5- Sport Letterman
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USL2 Director of Operations
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FC Sarasota Competitive Soccer Coach

Coach Jester
Present SHS Asst. Varsity Basketball Coach, RealFitness Sarasota CrossFit Competitor
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Other Experience:
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SSAS Head Basketball Coach
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SHS Asst. Varsity Soccer Coach
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DI Collegiate Basketball Player

Coach Ashlyn
Collegiate Soccer Athlete at New College of Florida
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Other Experience:
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Soccer for Success Coach
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GA Soccer Athlete
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IMG Soccer Athlete
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LRHS Decorated Varsity Letterman
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