Mentoring program helps athletes make transition to college life

The goal of the program, according to head football coach Jackie Sherrill, is to provide student-athletes a meaningful relationship with caring professionals.

"In this safe and non-threatening environment, our athletes acquire a clearer understanding of university life and the expectations placed on them," Sherrill said.

Faculty participation in the program is voluntary. Mentors select students and meet with them in the lunchroom, library, the mentor's office, or elsewhere on campus. Students often are invited to the mentor's home for social interaction.

"In these settings, partners are able to step outside their faculty and student-athlete roles and enjoy the social dimensions of everyday life," said Hank Flick, communication professor and coordinator of the program. "A mentoring relationship can help the student-athlete make the transition from high school to college life.

"When an athlete realizes that someone 'gives a damn' about him and values him as a person, nothing but good things happen affecting his total education and his attitude toward life."

For more information about the program, call Flick at 325-7847.