And so this week brings to a close our crazy summer course load. 8 weeks of readings, guest speakers, panels, projects, group work, and papers. This week worked to tie together everything we'd covered over the 7 previous weeks.
We took a good look at the groundwork that is set for many students coming into college (if they even get there) and realized that as educators, as leaders in athletics, we can make a difference. And that that difference can be as simple as believing in a child and showing them that someone cares for them and their well being - someone wants them to succeed.
Not every kid is lucky enough to have numerous opportunities growing up or the support of family and community. For many, school is an escape from the troubles and hard times they face at home. By making school a place that they want to be, students are given opportunities to succeed on their own, despite their environment.
The reason I went back to school and joined this program is because I want to be that person, that support for students. College, and intercollegiate athletics, is an entirely unique beast to tackle, but it is my goal to provide student-athletes with the support and the services and challenges they deserve, both athletically and academically. I want to see these students earn their degrees and feel that sense of pride in accomplishment. I want to give them something to hang their hat on besides their athletics. I know it will be hard to compete with $45 million contracts to play professionally, or unsupportive families, or the struggles that came before college, but I'm willing to give it a try - and I'm hoping to win some of these battles.
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