SIR Magazine Issue 7 Spring 2015 (Extended Version)

spring 2015 // volume 1 // issue 7

sir magazine

spring 2015 // 2

table of contents

intro 05 // letter from the editor

food and booze 06 // Jethro’s BBQ

culture 08 // Alpha vs. Beta 14 // Breakfast or Boot 16 // Sexual Consent: No Means No 20 // The Bros and Cons of Bro Tanks 23 // Rolling with the Southern Tide

sports 29 32 35 37

// // // //

Get the Max at Max Oxygen Iowa State Fight Club Marco, Polo!

Monte Morris: A Profile

lookbook 41 // Sportcore 46 // Modern Minimalism 50 // Fall Forecast spring 2015 // 3

editor-in-chief Devon Jefferson

creative directors photography director managing editor public relations directors fashion director art director social media specialist

Madison Jerde & Eric Fields Blake Lanser & Ellen Williams Bailey McGrath Colleen Spellman & Ashley Sill Tonya Cross Rashad Minnick Kenzi Mongar

digital editor

Kenni Terrell

treasurer

Ben Shimota

videographer

Amy Dunphy

copy chief editorial Tyler Van Kley Jessica Enwesi Christian Law Kate McCoshen Denisha Mixon Rachel Geronimo Jeffrey Lechner William Byal

fashion Kellie Koren Hassan Deer Morgan Holst Rosa Aguilera Juliana Sanchez PJ Harris Nicole Putz Tre Moore David Rashad Minnick Awase Asor

copy editors Brenda Blackhawk Brianna Levandowski

Ian Sheets

photography Jake Miller Cássio de Miguel Matthew Chatman

public relations Tanner Hansen Pauline Zienlinski Emily Cowles Sarah Schuster Lauren Jensen Shelbie Jacobsen Tre’Von Avery Taylor Chris Spendlove Jamie Huenecke Alex DeJong

ADVERTISING Iowa State Daily

design Paige Carlson Mike Witzmann Alex Zaborac Dean Razali

special thanks to Student Government // Matt Wettengel, faculty adviser // Heuss Printing // Banana Republic // Kohl’s // JCPenney The Gap Factory Store // Nordstrom Rack // The Grove & Copper Beach // Raygun // Southern Tide Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication // Leedz Salon // Des Moines Social Club // All models

sir magazine photography: Lance shuey photography

Change is something that the staff at SIR magazine, and the organization as a whole, has embraced and infused in the production process of our publication for the last nine months. Physical changes we have made to the the publication, organizational operations and to the brand this magazine represents have come with their ups and downs. Throughout these changes we have experienced editorial missteps and internal growing pains. This staff has embraced this issue’s theme of change and moved ourselves and our publication forward. I’d like to extend my gratitude to my staff and our community of readers—I am forever grateful for your continued support. Without you, none of this would be a reality.

a refreshing perspective that advocates trying new things—influencing a change in our readers ways. As an entire staff, we wanted to produce something as light, crisp, vivid and revitalizing as the spring season.

The idea of change sparked the creative process for the spring issue, which embodies

Most of all, I am very excited to introduce to you the first SIR magazine Spring/

With such a large undertaking on our hands, we set out to develop content that would appeal to any and everyone. This spring we share with you the impact of Monté Morris’ career on Hilton Magic, tell the stories behind the success of ISU club sports and share a fresh viewpoint on the not-sodaunting CrossFit workout. The lifestyle section houses stories we hope will positively influence your perspectives on sexual consent and the versatility of bro tanks.

spring 2015 // 5

Summer Lookbook. The Lookbook is a hybrid fashion catalog of forecasted looks for the upcoming seasons. The newly launched fashion committee spearheaded this project curating styles that span across categories of vintage, sporty, casual and modern minimalism.

All in all, I am truly excited to present to you the issue 7 of SIR Magazine. I hope that you all enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you.

Stay classy and observe SIR, sir.

sir magazine

story: jeff lechner photography: matthew chatman

"Barbecue is more of an art than a science. you kind of have to feel it out."

Scott James, Kitchen Manager at Jethro’s BBQ

Summer is right around the corner. It’s so close you can practically taste it. Spoiler alert: It tastes like barbecue. Now, barbecue might be intimidating to some, with it involving open flames and requiring an attention span longer than what’s required to hit the express button on a microwave. But that shouldn’t matter, because fresh barbecue is worth it, right?

If you still need more convincing, or a better idea of where to start, we’ve got the answer. The solution is simple: Call a guy who barbecues for a living, and ask him about some simple and inexpensive recipes that any college guy can use to man up and make his own delicious barbecue.

The man in question is Scott James, kitchen manager at Jethro’s BBQ n’ LakeHouse. James was there when the first Jethro’s location opened up by Drake University six years ago, but this son of a chef has been in food service since he was 13 years spring 2015 // 6

old and has worked his way up to kitchen manager. James has a lot of experience. But it’s more than just a job to him — it’s in his blood. “I honestly couldn’t see myself doing anything else, nothing really gives me that drive as the restaurant business,” James says.

“I’d just be bored doing anything else.”

In James’ case, what happens at Jethro’s doesn’t necessarily stay there. He’s constantly experimenting with different recipes and trying new things at home. “I like to play,” James says. But he hasn’t gotten where he is without some trial and error.

“Sometimes I just get things in my head, and I have to try them — and I’m so disappointed.” But this is all part of the process for James. “You get better with experience,” he says. “But sometimes experience takes you through some bad recipes.”

Luckily, James was more than willing to share some of his experience, and more successful recipes, so you can skip the trial and error and potential disappointment.

sir magazine

nice to eat you There are several variables when selecting meat. James says it really depends on who’s coming to dinner.

Obviously, if you’re just looking to feed yourself, you don’t need a 10-poundbrisket or a whole pork shoulder. Instead, James would recommend a chicken or a single rack of ribs.

But if you’re throwing a party or feeding a large group, then by all means the 10-pound-brisket would be an excellent choice. If you don’t want to break the bank, pork or chicken will generally be more affordable than beef.

►►patience, You can't rush barbecue. ►►season meat liberally - not Seasoning things is how you get bland food.

sauces Homemade Sauce: ►►3 cups ketchup1/4 cup brown sugar ►►2 teaspoons yellow mustard ►►2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce1/2 t ►►1/2 tablespoon onion powder

Sauce with a twist What's a backyard barbecue without a few beers? But what if you want to take that to the next level and actually incorporate it into the barbecue itself? Well, James recommends adding a stout, like Guinness, to the original recipe and then cooking it until it reduces down to sauce consistency. If you’re craving something with a bit more of a kick, he also suggests this variation on the original sauce recipe:

►►Add 1 cup of an India Pale Ale ►►Add peppers, preferably habanero ►►Cook to sauce consistency

►►low and slow. ►►make sure you have clean surfaces and "season" the grill.

cooking When it comes to actually cooking the barbecue (you know, the important part) it’s not really set in stone, but that’s OK, because there’s some give when it comes to execution. “Barbecue is more of an art than a science. You kind of have to feel it out,” James says.

In general, the important thing is to keep the temperature steady — usually around 210 degrees Fahrenheit. A larger cut is going to take longer — generally a

few hours or more. It’s not practical to sit and watch it, but just check in on it regularly to make sure the temperature is right, and nothing is on fire (you know, basic safety stuff). James recommends using a basic Weber Grill with a charcoal base layer, and if you can, find some hickory wood chips to add more flavor. The charcoal will provide even, long-lasting heat, as well as a bit of that smoky flavor you’re looking for. If you’re going to go with this method, make sure you have a clean grill and give the surface a light coating of fresh oil (referred to as “seasoning”) to make sure things don’t stick.

If you live in a building complex or development that does not allow open flame grills, an oven can be used. But you’ll also need to purchase some liquid smoke in order to mimic the charcoal smoke flavor you would get from the grill. Of course, if you have access to an actual smoker that would be preferable to either. spring 2015 // 7

sir magazine

rubs basic rub: ►►2 cups kosher salt ►►3/4 cup black pepper ►►3/4 cup brown sugar ►►1 tablespoon cayenne pepper

rib rub:rub: chicken ► ►►1/2 ►1/2cup cuppaprika brown sugar ► ►►1/2 ►1/4cup cupsalt paprika ► ►►1►1tablespoon tablespooncayenne black pepper ► black ►►1►2tablespoon tablespoons saltpepper ► ► 1 tablespoon sugar ►►1 tablespoon chili powder ►►1 tablespoon garlic powder

Espresso Rub: ►►1 cup brown sugar ►►1/2 cup pink peppercorns ►►1/4 cup espresso grounds ►►2 tablespoons salt ►►1 tablespoon black pepper

spring 2015 // 8

Rub chicken thoroughly and smoke ►►1 at tablespoon chicken 215 F untilonion it haspowder an internal temp►of► 1 165 F. teaspoon cayenne Rub rack of ribs thoroughly and smoke at 210 F for 3-1/2 to 4 hours until ribs are tender. This can also double for pulled pork.

sir magazine

story: rachel geronimo photography: jake miller

"t

he strong shall survive and the weak shall perish” is a compelling and genuine statement that embraces Evolutionary Theory. This mechanism has secured itself over the eons and will perpetuate into the future. Although it is well known in the animal kingdom, humankind is also affected. Gentlemen, understand your place; we are breathing Social Darwinism.

Survival of the fittest doesn’t begin to describe it. In the animal kingdom, alphas are known to thrive while betas suffer, but whether you identify yourself as an alpha male or a beta male, there are ways to better your state of being to become the fittest of them all.

To serve as guidance, we have compiled a comprehensive analysis that will hopefully improve your lifestyle, values, relationship and success. Use these realistic situations to refine, or redefine, the man you are. Will you suffer or thrive? You’ll never know the answer until you’re willing to have a better understanding of who you are as a man.

what kind of a man are you? the alpha male: Generally, when we think about an alpha male, we imagine someone who is assertive, and, to an extreme, aggressive. In short, what comes to mind is someone who matches the characteristics of Donald Trump — alluring, powerful and in control of all things. Although these traits are commonly used to define an alpha male, it’s important to know that they’re not completely accurate.

J.D. Dallas, a dating advisor and motivational life counselor for Modern Male Lifestyle, explains misinterpretations about the term alpha male.

“A lot of times, people hear that name and they think, ‘Oh, he’s a jerk, or he’s a meat head, or he’s a bully’ when, in fact, they’re not,” Dallas says.

Dr. Anastasia Prokos, associate professor in department of sociology, explains that society commonly stereotypes these men, which is why we pin these particular personalities on them.

“In terms of stereotypes, what you might expect are leaders in organizations,” Prokos says. “Like the quarterback of the football team or the president of a fraternity.”

Dallas described an alpha male as someone who is confident, a leader, very optimistic, a good communicator and spring 2015 // 9

humorous. “He is not abusive and is not arrogant,” Dallas says. “He doesn’t look down upon others.”

the beta male: When one pictures a beta male, he sees someone who’s the complete opposite of an alpha male. Someone whose personality doesn’t hold the terms alluring, powerful and controlling.

“They’re not achieving, or living up to, the more stereotypical ideas of dominant masculinity,” Prokos says. “Just to go with the analogy, they are followers. You would find them in all the same places as an alpha male, but maybe in different roles in those places.”

sir magazine Beta males are often insecure. You would find them talking too fast,” Dallas says. “It’s a form of insecurity. A beta male, for example, would think that they need to speak fast to get everything in a conversation.”

An alpha male’s actions will speak louder than his words, whereas a beta male will always inform others on what he is going to do.

Dr. David L. Vogel, psychology professor, would describe a beta male as someone that is more likely to let another person take charge of the situation.

“An example of that is very situational,” Vogel says. “Generally, it’s probably good to have a group that is trying to get something accomplished if one person is willing to take the leadership role, but if everyone in the group is an alpha male, then they wouldn’t get anything done. They would just be arguing.”

Gents, these two traits are explained to you so that you’re able to get a better understanding of who you are. It’s critical to recognizing the kind of man you are because if you want to improve yourself, you are the only person who can do it. You understand yourself better than anyone. You know what makes you tick, you know what makes you happy, and you know your own pace. No one is able to create change for you besides you, so it’s very important to acknowledge the kind person you are.

lifestyles & values... the alpha male: They are known to be very passionate about their life, they know what it is that they love, and they will follow their dreams no matter what.

“He is very driven, has very high set of values and high morals and is not what you call a loose man,” Dallas says. “Failure is a part of the alpha existence, but it’s only a minor setback because it’s a learning experience. He takes that and moves forward with new skills rather than giving up.”

Dallas also shared that an alpha male will always look the part.

“His dress code is always sharp, and he’s really smart about it,” Dallas says. “Physically, he’s in the best shape that he can be; it’s just part of his natural state. He would never leave the house looking like a slob.”

An alpha male is also someone who wants to be known as the leader.

“As an alpha male you’re more likely to take charge and making sure that your opinion is heard, while the beta male is more likely to tell the other person to take the leadership role,” Vogel says.

the beta male: Believe it or not, beta males have a huge ego. But a beta male’s ego is something that usually backfires on him, due to his sensitivities and insecure disposition.

“He’s constantly trying to feed that ego by getting qualification or stating his spring 2015 // 10

qualification so that people can accept him,” Dallas says. “It’s this big of an ego that you really don’t find in an alpha male.”

Having a large ego is a result of having low self esteem, and a man that is truly confident will never prove himself to others.

A beta male is going to be the type that sits back and watches the years pass by.

who is more powerful?

A beta male is going to be the type that sits back and watches the years pass by.

“He doesn’t really know what he wants,” Dallas says. “He kind of just sits and waits for things to happen, rather than making it happen right away.”

In the Greek alphabet, the letters alpha and beta literally mean first and second. So when you compare an alpha male with a beta male, you would expect the alpha male to be the winning star, but Prokos says it all comes down to power dynamics.

“I would think about interactions in that way,” Prokos says. “From a framework of how powerful people and less powerful people interact with each other.”

Powerful people are more likely to interrupt and are more inclined to taking up space both physically and in speech.

“They tend to be louder, and in many cases, not even know that they’re doing those things,” Prokos says.

On the contrary, less powerful beings are interrupted more often.

“Be it because they’re less likely to speak as much, they’re taking up less physical space, and less likely to set the agenda of what is going on,” Prokos says.

relationships, love, women & sex...

Guys, acknowledge that neither trait is considerably more powerful than the other.

Although alpha males are known to be more prominent, beta males are just as equal.

sir magazine Consider this scenario: there’s this “nice guy,” and he’s best friends with an attractive woman. He will listen to all her problems, he will help her when she needs it, and more importantly — he’s not sleeping with her.

Every day, he notices that she complains about a specific “asshole” that comes over to have sex with her and never calls her. Why is she so attracted to that “asshole” and not the “nice guy?”

Dallas explains that the “nice guy” shows no alpha characteristic whatsoever.

“The asshole, at least he’s confident in himself and doesn’t need her validation by calling her and texting her constantly, and so she’s intrigued by that,” Dallas says. “It’s one alpha characteristic in an asshole package that makes him stick out.”

Although it is true that an alpha characteristic can stand out, Prokos believes that having beta traits can be advantageous as well.

“Complacent and passive, but on a positive side good with relationships,” Prokos says. “They’re used to taking other people’s feelings and their actions to an extent, and working around with people, rather than just rolling over them.”

Dallas says beta males are ideal for women who like to be in control. He believes that some men are comfortable letting the woman drive the entire time.

Vogel believes that men can carry a mix of alpha and beta traits.

“It’s not necessarily saying that having beta traits are a bad thing, but there needs to be a balance between two groups for it to be effective,” he says.

finding that one girl...

Gents, no matter which you label yourself, it’s good for you to understand that it’s OK to hold both traits in a relationship.

Having a balance is healthy, so don’t neglect one characteristic.

Using both traits can be more compatible with women than you’d think.

You’ve been talking to this chick for months now, and she’s really diggin your vibe; but you’re still a little wary whether she’s into you or not. You notice that she’s putting a lot of effort into getting your attention, and this is why women are like bloodhounds.

Acknowledge this, because once a woman catches a scent that they like, they’ll never forget it.

“Women end up with the men that they are attracted to, plain and simple.”

Dallas says.

Once a woman finds a man that is strong in mind, opinion, body and character, she will hold on to them.

Guys, highlight this section, and always refer back to it. If a woman says that they like you, they genuinely are attracted you.

Don’t play dumb or think otherwise.

Dallas warns that men need to be aware of not jumping into relationship right away.

“It’s always this: He meets a woman and enters a long term relationship immediately instead of dating a woman to find out whether she’s right for him, and to see if she’s really what he’s looking for,” Dallas says. “The alpha male has a type in mind and has given some thought into what ‘my perfect women’ and what ‘my perfect relationship’ looks and sounds like, and until you do that, you’re not going to know when you find her.”

Now you understand that she really likes you, but you’re still a little scared to face the past and deal with another break up.

Take this for example: Notice from your past relationships that you gave her everything, let her make all of the decisions, and she still left you.

“You gave her 100 percent of the power,” Dallas says. “We have roles, and when a man gives a woman his role, she doesn’t want to be the man. She’ll say that she wants to be in charge and she’s capable of doing it, but it’s a test. She wants to see if you are what you say you are.”

Be cautious, know that you play the role as a man. You can still give her your everything, but show your everything little by little. Now, don’t completely ignore her or she’ll think otherwise. Show small spring 2015 // 11

affectionate attention to let her know you’re still interested. Overall, you want to make sure you’re compatible to be in a relationship with her, so don’t rush into things. The best relationships develop over time.

reforming & success...

Dallas shared a beautiful story about the notorious Italian sculptor, Michelangelo.

Among the variety of astonishing art that Michelangelo had created, the Statue of David is considered his most prominent masterpiece. When asked how he made his Statue of David, he simply replied, “It is easy.

You just chip away the stone that doesn’t look like David.”

Men should envision themselves as this block of marble.

“He needs to start removing all the negative characteristics and behaviors one

sir magazine short term goals. These short term goals are activities you want to achieve today, this week, this month or even this year. Then slowly progress to long term goals. These long term goals will require you to do some digging and will take more energy to achieve.

“These are the goals you can learn from,” Dallas says. “You have to find a goal you want to achieve, or you have to create one.”

alpha: He is someone who is never quite satisfied, and he is never really 100 percent done. So there’s always room for refinement.

“He who has a billion dollars, is going to want a billion and one,” Dallas says.

at a time,” Dallas says. He indicated three important essentials to change to become a better man. ►►

1. acknowledge all your failures

“Recognize that in all your failed relationships, or all of your failed business ventures, or all your failed classes in college, or anything that you were unable to achieve—the common denominator is you,” Dallas says. “It’s not the woman’s fault that they broke up with you, and it’s not the professor’s fault that they failed you. It’s always you.” ►►

2. Know that the problem can be fixed

“Look in the mirror and say, ‘You know, I’m not only the problem, but I’m also the solution, and nobody is going to fix this except for me.’”

Gentlemen, when you stop doing the wrong things you’re already ahead of the game. If you have the tendency to be fearful, anxious or have low self esteem, you’re not going to be able to change. If you want something, you have to do something that you’ve never done before. ►►

3. Set your goals

It’s pretty easy to set goals with your state of being. Start off slow and set some

Alpha males remember this: It’s all about finding the solution and moving on to your next destination. Stay constantly driven, the sky’s never the limit because you have the whole universe to feed off of.

beta: Failure is something you’re scared of, because you’re fearful of facing it again in the future. Beta males, you need to acknowledge that it is only a mistake if you don’t learn from it. Let your failures be your challenges; set them as your goal on being a better person. Look at fear as an opportunity and not as an obstacle. You never know how much you’re able to achieve until you do something about it.

so, alpha or beta?

A high social rank has clear advantages in the animal kingdom, but it’s no comparison with the human kind. A man shall not be defined by the views of society, but the characteristics that he holds. No trait is considered better than the other.

Although both opposing characters do hold different qualities, a form of rank should not determine who the winner shall be.

For beta males, being known as a follower is not considered a bad thing.

You’re known to be a team player. Although spring 2015 // 12

you love to talk mostly about your own interests and hobbies, your genuine heart is just as open to hearing others. It’s never comfortable setting all the rules, but if everyone consistently sets the stones, then you have a problem. For any kind of relationship, personal or professional, it’s a key aspect to have a balance, and being a beta male has its advantages. You’re flexible, and you’re willing to adapt to all the rules rather than making them.

With women, you’re not just the “nice guy.” You’re a man who is polite and wellmannered. You know how to treat women well, especially that one special girl. So beta males, stop comparing yourself with alpha males. In the end, you have as many advantages as they do, and you will not finish last.

Alpha males, you’re known to be strong, wholehearted and driven. It’s tough not being in control of things, but it just shows that you’re willing to be a leader. Sure it can be exhausting to always set rules, but it’s only in your nature to make sure that things will maneuver smoothly. With women, it’s hard to give in, but it’s only because you’re trying to figure yourself out before a significant other can. So alpha males, you hold as many advantages as a beta male does. In the end, you can win.

Understand one thing. You are your own man. No one else is capable of changing, defining or refining the kind of man you are.

Alpha male or beta male, you will become the fittest if you choose to.

sir magazine

spring 2015 // 13

sir magazine

keep this woman in bed or wake her up & ask her to leave?

story: kenni terrell photography: Cássio de miguel

It is 8 a.m., and next to you lies a lovely lady.

Her hair is messy, her skin looks soft, and the night before, both of you consented to a wild feast on each other’s endorphins.

Let’s be real — you probably have morning wood and would like a “round two.” But the morning sun sheds a different light on the situation. You have a decision to make: Should you keep this woman in your bed for a few more hours or wake her up and ask her to leave?

There are many approaches to what happens the morning after. One could be soft and gently wake his bedmate and ask her to leave. Some take a harsher path, waking their partner up at the crack of dawn and giving her the boot. Others have nothing to worry about, as the person has left before they open their eyes.

Dr. Diana Baltimore, human sexuality professor, explored the subject of one night stands with her class this semester through an anonymous survey. Out of 257 of her students, about one-third admit they’ve had a one-night stand. Of those students, only 20 percent said that they wanted their spring 2015 // 14

partner to stay the night after hooking up, and few wanted to stay themselves.

“She is welcome to stay and have breakfast,” says junior Carlos Ramirez, adding that she needs to realize that it “was only business” and that she should leave soon.

It’s not hard to find men and women who meet at parties, schmooze a little and find enough things they like about each other that they decide to spend a night together. Casual sex has almost become something of a norm in the college scene.

It has been less of a social taboo for a long time. Sometimes it can even help in choosing a partner. “[College students] want to have sex,” says Douglas Gentile, associate professor in psychology. The aspect of fertility, biologically enhancing one’s self, and the culture’s “obsession with youth” are just a few reasons that humans actively sexualize things, Gentile says. But when it comes down to the nitty-gritty reasons, there’s one obvious answer — the pleasure.

When people have sex, their bodies release two main chemicals: oxytocin and dopamine. These chemicals create

sir magazine the pleasure everyone craves from sexual encounters.

direct about it and not [have them] lag around for no reason.”

When men orgasm, they’re hit with a wave of dopamine — the pleasure chemical — causing the stimulation they experience. After this is released their pleasure fades quickly, which can cause sleepiness or hunger.

This seems like the golden ticket for most men, right? Her direct approach avoids the ambiguity that typically follows a one night stand and usually causes awkwardness.

In her experience, most men are meek and give general answers like, “I don’t care.”

Women can sometimes crave oxytocin, which is caused by touch, because it can heighten an orgasm. Their orgasms, which also release dopamine, stem mostly from mental stimulation. This stimulation takes longer to dissolve than men’s does, leaving women wanting to continue touch sensation right after orgasm (better known as cuddling).

Don’t be shy, leave that for your first kiss. If this question is ever thrown your way, tell her exactly what you want — no hesitation.

Aside from all the science mumbo jumbo, everyone has their own approach to taking on the morning after.

Marrysa Harkness, sophomore, openly states that she has had casual sex, but her responses do not apply to the stereotypical idea of what women want after sex. After her last casual encounter, she got up as early as possible, said she was “going to be late” and left as quickly as she could, without concern for what the guy wanted.

She did not feel the need to stay there.

Many times, Harkness says, men cannot get her to reach an orgasm. She says that an “orgasm is a gold star, and if you get that I will stay over.” She suggests that casual sex is overrated, so she doesn’t need to be kicked out. She’s usually ready.

"an orgasm is a gold star, and if you get that, I will stay over."

Marrsya Harkness Sophomore, Iowa State Student

According to the survey of Baltimore’s class, more females felt tension the next day than their male classmates. Female respondents also indicated that they felt more regret the morning after.

Freshman Idalias Clyce has a more forward approach to the morning after: She asks the guy whether or not he wants her to stay.

Not all women are as confident as Harkness and Clyce. Harkness mentioned a friend she once had (who wishes to remain anonymous) who stayed over until 2 p.m.

This is most men’s post-hookup nightmare.

When she was asked to leave, she started crying. How do you handle that?

“If [they] plan to be harsh, might as well do it up front,” Gentile says. It’s not about being cordial the next day, it’s about getting your point across. “Honesty works; it’s the best policy,” Gentile adds. “It may cause pain, but it will be less pain in the long run.”

Suggest that she calls a friend, because it’s obviously time to go. A lot of women who cry are already fed up with the situation and want to leave. Most female friends will come and rescue their friend, leaving no dirty work for you, besides remaking an unkempt bed.

Some men that I have talked to consider it an unspoken rule that staying anywhere past 10 a.m. is a danger zone.

But many will be nice enough to offer her a shower or a snack before she leaves. What you don’t have to worry about is that she will extend her stay — women are in a new era of their lives. They are strong, confident and goal-oriented. It does not take more than a simple nod for a lady to leave. So don’t sweat if you slept-in. No one wants to be seen with messy hair, smudged makeup and morning breath anyway.

Let’s take a look at the results from Dr. Baltimore’s class again: 20 percent of students left on their own the next day.

Breakfast may be nice, but let’s all get real with ourselves, can one really find the love of their life after three hours — OK, I’m overestimating — after one hour of pleasure? Probably not. The morning after is the time to see each other off, give a nod of approval from the night before and get on with your day.

“I usually do not have a ride,” says Clyce. “I only ask because I want to be spring 2015 // 15

sir magazine

sexual consent: story: Kate mcCoshen photography: blake lanser

"[consent is] an affirmative agreement through clear actions or words. It must be present throughout a sexual activity, and it can be withdrawn at any time. It is not based on prior relations and cannot be assumed."

Sara Kellogg, ISU Director of Judicial Affairs

It’s the first Saturday of the semester. You’re pre-gaming at Stephen’s apartment, and you and your guys are ready for a night to remember, or at least partially.

“Oh, we have to go to AJ’s!”

“No, man, we need to go to Mickey’s! That’s where all the drunk bitches are!”

“Oh, I’m totally going to get laid tonight!”

You sit back with a drink and listen to what your friends are saying. Nothing is out of the ordinary. You hear the same talk every weekend. Is there something wrong with this conversation?

You and your bros get to the bar. Jenny, the beautiful girl who you have been trying to connect with since freshman year, approaches you.

“MAAAAAAATT!!” she exclaims, audible even over the tremendous bass. This isn’t her. This isn’t the girl you have been interested in for years. spring 2015 // 16

Her words are slurred, she can barely stand, and she just asked you to take her back to your place. Is this your chance?

What is consent? ISU students define sexual consent as: “Consent to me would mean a sober yes,” says sophomore Fatima Newsome.

“The definition of consent, sexually, would be like both sober and both talk about it before. And give the right answer I guess?

Like yes,” says junior Brady Berkland.

“Well, in my opinion, sexual consent is when a person is willing to have relations to you, and it doesn’t always mean a verbal consent. But as long as they are comfortable with whatever you’re doing, then it’s consent,” says sophomore Sam Brandl.

“Harassment of any kind is never okay.

However in heterosexual cases, our culture is

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quick to blame the guy, which, in some cases, may not always be correct. Both people involved should be careful about how they present themselves and do their best to make their intentions clear from the beginning,” says junior Paige Ford.

at Iowa State. 2014 wasn’t much better with 12 reported cases. This is an issue that has affected many of our peers, classmates and friends.

“Consent is whether the person clearly agrees to do something, with no room for argument. If it’s a clear, verbal agreement, then it’s consensual. But if there is any room for question on whether it’s a yes or no, then it isn’t,” says sophomore Alyssa DeLuca.

You look down to see that your drink is empty. As you walk to the bar, ready for your next beer, you notice Stephen flirting with his on-again girlfriend, Chelsea. Stephen is touching her shoulder and trying to grab her waist, but you notice that Chelsea looks uncomfortable.

You know that they have regular, sometimes too loud, sex. But something doesn’t look right in this situation.

There is a lot of pressure associated with sexual consent, especially among students at Iowa State. In the past year, there have been many nationally-recognized sexual assault and rape cases happening on college campuses. This phenomenon also happens here at Iowa State. Our campus is one of over 90 colleges in the United States that is being investigated due to the Obama administration’s recent crackdown on sexual assaults. According to The Gazette, in 2013, there were 13 reported cases of sexual assault

What is consent? Sam Shelton, student and advocate for Assault Care Center Extending Shelter & Support (ACCESS), the confidential resource available to Story County residents, defines consent as “an ongoing interaction between two or more people to make sure everything they’re doing spring 2015 // 17

"consent is an ongoing interaction between two or more people to make sure everything they're doing is OK with the other person. and to ensure that the other person or people are enjoying what's going on and wanting to keep it going on."

Sam Shelton, student and advocate for ACCESS

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"I relate to consent as approval. to permission. and that approval or permission is about the respect for other individual's person and their humanity. I need to ask and receive confirmative consent in every level of a sexual encounter. I think too often people view not getting constant as not being sexy, but consent should be viewed as sexy."

Joel Hochstein, Dept. of Residence Apartment Supervisor

is OK with the other person.” He says to make sure the other person is enjoying what’s going on.

Consent needs to be achieved before every sexual occurrence, even if it is with the same person. Just because a person has engaged in sexual activities with someone once, it does not mean that they want to perform those same activities another time.

Shelton emphasizes that consent does not only apply to rape. There are many different forms of sexual violence that need to be included when it comes to consent.

“So, rape is a very specific kind of sexual assault. Rape is often defined based on penetration. So, something was used to penetrate another person’s body in some way or another. And that doesn’t have to be a penis penetrating a vagina,” Shelton says.

“That can be, you know, using any object to penetrate any other part of someone else.

And it definitely doesn’t have to be limited to heterosexual relationships, where men rape women.

“Then sexual assault, I think, is a much broader term used to talk about any instance where we violate someone else’s consent around their body, issues of their sexuality— stuff like that.”

“Stephen stop, not tonight,” you hear Chelsea mutter as she shoves your friend away.

Stephen grabs her waist again, but this time he tries to kiss her.

“Hey! What are you doing?” Instinctively, you rush over (beer still in hand), and pull Stephen off his girlfriend.

“Dude! Cockblock much?” He shakes his head and storms off. You look over at Chelsea, and she mouths the words, “Thank you.” It’s going to be a long night.

What is consent? Apartment supervisor for the Department of Residence, Joel Hochstein, defines sexual consent as: “I relate to consent as approval. To permission. And that approval or permission is about the respect for other individual’s spring 2015 // 18

person and their humanity. I need to ask and receive confirmative consent in every level of a sexual encounter,” Hochstein says.

“I think too often, people view not getting constant as not being sexy, but consent should be viewed as sexy. One’s sexuality is a very personal part of their identity, and affirmative consent communicates respect.”

There are many different ways that Cyclones can help prevent sexual violence here at Iowa State. As concerned students, it is difficult to find ways to prevent sexual assault all on your own. However, there are many student-run organizations formed on campus with the intention of sexual violence prevention in mind.

“Students can get involved with the various initiatives that are happening on campus. Particularly, the “It’s On Us” campaign being spearheaded by various Iowa State student organizations,” Hochstein says. “They should also connect with prevention services and with the office of equal opportunity to learn more about what other initiatives are happening in our Cyclone community.”

There are also resources for Cyclones who are victims of sexual violence.

“There are several confidential resources at Iowa State and the Ames community including ACCESS, Student Counseling Services and Thielen Student Health Center. The Dean of Students Office, the Office of Equal Opportunity, and ISU police are also excellent non-confidential sources who are highly trained to assist survivors of sexual violence.”

What is consent? Director of Judicial Affairs at Iowa State, Sara Kellogg provides Iowa State’s official definition: “An affirmative agreement through clear actions or words. It must be present throughout a sexual activity, and it can be withdrawn at any time. It is not based on prior relations and cannot be assumed.”

It is clear that people don’t always have the same idea of what consent is. Kellogg points out that “people’s perception of what consent is may vary, but that doesn’t change the definition of consent.”

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You get back to the bar only to find Jenny, sitting there with a beer in her shaky hand.

“I-I always remembered that this one...this one is your fav,” Jenny slurs as she hands you the beer, but her hands linger. It’s a Blue Moon, not your favorite, but it’s the thought that counts. You realize that she is still touching you, so you look up to see her gazing at you with lust in her eyes and vodka on her breath.

“When are are we gonna go home, Matt? My bed’s really comfy.” She moves in closer to kiss you.

You let it happen, but then you remember Chelsea.

“Hey, I’ve only had a couple beers and my car is out back. Let’s go.”

You grab Jenny’s hand and guide her to your car. The entire ride to her house she continues to touch you, to want you, to do the things you have been waiting years for her to do. You arrive at her apartment and get her up to her bedroom.

morning. As you leave her apartment, you look back one last time.

Communication is the biggest component of consent, but it is also how we can educate our peers and ourselves about sexual violence. There shouldn’t be fear behind talking about consent and sexual violence in a public setting.

It is our responsibility to start a conversation about consent, and keep it going here at Iowa State. Sexual violence can affect a person for the rest of his or her life, yet society makes the victim feel shame.

Victims can feel lost, hopeless, unworthy, depressed and even suicidal. If we start these conversations, we as a Cyclone community can take that shame away.

“See, there’s plenty-y of…of room! Not like those dorm beds,” she slurs as she lies down suggestively on her bed.

“I’ll be there in a minute.”

You reluctantly close her door and walk to her kitchen. You pour a glass of water and find some aspirin from one of her cabinets. You leave both of them on the counter for her to find in the spring 2015 // 19

So, what is sexual consent? based on the expert's definitions, there are many specific things that need to be considered when getting consent with every sexual encounter: ►► get a "yes" ►► a "yes" needs to happen every time, even if it is with the same person. ►► consent needs to be ongoing in every aspect of the encounter, which means that the consent can be withdrawn at any time. ►► your partner needs to feel safe enough to say "no" at any time. make sure they are comfortable. ►► pay attention to non-verbal cues, body language, and if they are enjoying it or not. ►► they need to be sober to know what they are doing.

sir magazine

story: kate mccoshen photography: ellen williams

Bro culture has been alive for centuries, all linking back to the original bro himself in 43 B.C., Ovid. Ovid was a Latin poet who wrote the legendary poem “The Art of Love,” which happened to be the worlds first guidebook on how to make out with a woman. Fast forward a few centuries to the birth of the first fraternity: Phi Beta Kappa.

Phi Beta Kappa was established at the College of William and Mary in 1776, not long after our founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence. Historically, these events are obviously on the same level of significance.

Throughout human history, there have been many symbols of a true “bro.” From the dependable red Solo cup to the signature fist bump you share with your fellow bros, there are many unforgettable images in bro culture. However, there has not been a emblem as iconic as the bro tank. According to Styleite magazine, the bro tank originated in Southern California and has become an essential staple of a true bro’s attire. If you are walking around any college campus for at least five minutes on a sunny day, it is impossible not to spot at least one bro sporting his favorite bro tank. A bro tank can often be seen worn with khaki shorts, some sort of open-toed sandal and aviator sunglasses, no matter how much or how little sun there is.

The bro tank fad appears to have survived many seasons of drastic fashion

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changes, but the question is: Why? What makes these thin tank tops so iconic for this specific demographic?

Local bro, Dan Arbogast, decided to weigh in on why bro tanks are so important to him in his daily life. “They complete a casual outfit, act as a good undershirt in some situations and provide maximum range of motion when I lift,” he says. “They also help me get a tan along the entirety of my arms, and allow me to show off my arms in the summer. They embrace the casual lifestyle and allow me to be myself.”

This brings up an interesting concept: the clothing you wear is one of the first forms of self-expression that everyone can see. You don’t need to say anything to someone, and they could already have an idea of who you are, just by what you are wearing.

The bro tank is a very strong example of this idea. According to bro culture, a bro tank makes a man feel confident in his appearance, especially how his arms look.

Another local bro, Jonathan Meyer, adds, “They feel a lot cooler in the summer than a regular T-shirt.”

Bro tanks are simply worn for the same reason shorts are worn during the brutally hot months of summer: They are more comfortable. Obviously, a sweater or longsleeved shirt would be comparatively warmer than the innovative, sleeveless bro tanks.

Many bros attest, however, that the bro tank is drastically more comfortable to wear than a T-shirt in the summer.

T-shirts can be restricting to a man’s upper body and shoulders, especially in the summer when the weather is stickier and bodies are exposed to more sweat-inducing situations. With the bro tank, the sweat of summer looks more like a glisten. Even if there isn’t any sweat at all, these bros are glistening with confidence. There is still one question left unanswered: What do women think of bro tanks?

that’s about it,” says local bro, Andrew Brown. He almost sounds hurt when asked whether there is an ulterior motive behind his three beloved bro tanks.

“They aren’t my jam,” chimes in local woman Lindsay Budde. “It feels like they are just trying to show off, especially when people wear them in the winter. And armpit hair is not attractive.”

At the gym? Wear a bro tank.

As it turns out, a lot of women have an opinion on bro tanks, and those opinions tend to be negative ones.

In the end, are bro tanks acceptable in our society? Based on the data and extensive research that has been performed, a conclusion can be made: there is nothing wrong with the bro tank...if worn correctly.

Meeting your girlfriend’s parents? Don’t wear a bro tank.

There is a heat advisory? Wear a bro tank.

You’re going to class in a blizzard, because for some reason it isn’t canceled? Don’t wear a bro tank.

“I don’t like them. There is a place and time for them, like at the gym, just not in public,” says sophomore Rachel Tucker, who is, in fact, a female.

Going to a funeral? Don’t wear a bro tank.

Some women are more open minded to the bro tank, while others don’t see anything wrong with them. Take female senior Lauren Reagan, for example.

As the fashion world changes from season to season, it seems that the bro tank will not be fazed. Many fashion experts grimace at the thought of this undying fad, but others worship it. It’s as if the bro tank is a religious artifact in the eyes of bro-culture.

“I think they’re fine if you’re working out or it’s super hot out, wear whatever you want,” Reagan says. “Just probably not to dinner or a meeting.”

But maybe men aren’t wearing bro tanks to attract women. Maybe bros all across our nation just want to feel free to wear whatever they are most comfortable and confident wearing. “I wear them to feel comfortable…

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Going to your own funeral? Make sure they bury you in your favorite bro tank.

Everyone has some sort of clothing item that is part of their own personal look.

For the true bros here at Iowa State and at college campuses nationwide, that article of clothing is the bro tank. It is the symbol of an entire subculture, and symbolism never goes out of style.

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a slew of new

spring scents story: Jessica Enwesi photography: Jessica Enwesi

With spring here, get ready to start seeing the 2015 color of the year, Marsala, in every store and newest trends from Details, GQ and Men’s Journal magazines. Aside from all the strapping and versatile styles that will debut this year, the new colognes of this season will be at the forefront.

First on the list of spring colognes is Dolce and Gabbana’s Intenso. Packaged in smooth, brown glass, this cologne gives off a fresh and new essence. Lavender and tobacco notes fill the heart of the fragrance, while the base consists of honey and floral accents.

Finally, the scent dries to a rather warm and woodsy note confirming D&G’s Intenso is, as Younkers says, “rooted in tradition, yet effortlessly sexy.”

Another cologne making its debut this spring is Jimmy Choo’s Man. This is a projected favorite this season because of its bright notes of honeydew melon and lavender mix. Its slight musk is present without being overpowering, a perfect combination for young ISU men. Warm weather and green grass are sure signs of spring. With the heart of this cologne holding pineapple leaf and pink pepper, it creates a sweet hint that is perfect for any springtime day or night.

The last cologne perfect for the season is Calvin Klein’s Reveal. This new partner to CK’s Reveal for women contains a fresh woody scent. Crystallized ginger and pear brandy layer the top notes, while the heart

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consists of raw salt, agave nectar and kiwano.

This trio of scents helps to create an earthy vibe. For those men who don’t necessarily like a sweet tone in their cologne, this is a perfect choice. A base consisting in Haitian vetiver, vanilla bean and golden amber also helps to blend this cologne’s playful and seductive traits. Although the scents chosen to make this new cologne are considered sweet, they come together beautifully to create a new and vibrant fragrance.

Luckily for ISU men, all of the new colognes of the season are being sold at all Younkers locations in Iowa. Find which one speaks to you and experience these new fragrances today.

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sir magazine

rolling with the

southerntide

story: devon jefferson styling: mariah Wellman & devon jefferson photography: blake lanser

The fall/winter seasons have a lot to do with layering, and at times it can be difficult to obtain a refined and fresh look that is all too popular with the spring/summer seasons.

Along with the awakening and renewal of the environment, the spring/summer seasons bring forth possibilities for several elements of fashion that aren’t as practical in the winter. Pastels and bright tonal colors are staples of the seasons, for one. Second, there’s more of an opportunity for colored trousers and more room to wear white (although we advocate wearing white at all times). Finally, a variety of fabrics are traded in for prints and patterns that hold up well against the fierce sun.

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So for this season, we took inspiration from the prep style look and hope to influence the way you cuff your colored/ printed Ralph Lauren chinos with our editorial offering. We partnered with Southern Tide, the quality heritage brand, and received several pieces from their spring collection as starter pieces for our prep look.

We utilized a quarter-pullover, bay shorts, a basic gingham button down, classic fit khakis, skipjack polo, a belt and an upper deck club pullover. With these basics from Southern Tide, we added a few minimal pieces and created a hybrid look that both embodies the essence of prep attire, all while executing in a refreshing way.

In broad terms, the prep style is a light, breathable look that primarily hinges on classics. Even though this style category is known for being a highly decorated one, most of the statement value of the complete looks come from small details like colors and color blocking, patterns and general styling. In addition, the best thing about this style is the random element it provides — many rules can be broken. You can afford to throw things together effortlessly, all while maintaining a poised look.

look 1 & 2: Very reminiscent of traditional prep style, this first look also has that random element of styling. Along with the choice of a basic T-shirt on top rather than a collared shirt, we also have two different options for bottoms with this ensemble. The light blue Bay Side short from Southern Tide offers a fun alternative for look two, rather than the more refined white on white option paired with the St. John’s Bay sport coat.

looks 1 & 2: Stafford jacket // Gap factory white V-neck - $16.99 // St. Johns Bay white shorts // Pocket square yellow

Utilizing all of these elements, and doing so in a way that is bold and classic at the same time can be difficult. So finding a style perspective that has a breadth large enough to encompass all things chic is imperative to creating a refined and fresh look. The prep style is the perfect avenue to combine all of the meticulous styling details and seasonal perks into a cohesive look.

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look 3:

Look 4: Gap Factory crew neck 19.99 // Southern Tide Bay Side short

A perfect look for a Sunday brunch or meeting, this Southern Tide quarter zip pullover works well with a classic button up like the navy checkered Southern Tide gingham shirt.

Paired with these striped Gap seersucker shorts, this look has the perfect combination of details and classic features. The pullover and gingham pairing give a well-manicured aesthetic, while the shorts and Apt. 9 oxfords give this style a modern twist.

look 4:

look 3: Southern Tide quarter-zip pullover // Southern Tide gingham Gap Factory seersucker short - $39.99

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Textbook execution and simplicity are what truly make this look stand out. This Gap Factory crew neck casually utilizes a pop of color that can easily be dressed up or down.

In addition, since the base of the outfit is so vivid, it makes color blocking with the seersucker short and Apt. 9 oxfords all too natural. This is one of those “out with the boys� or running errands looks.

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Look 5: St. John’s Bay white short // Izod classic fit shirt $50.00 - Khol’s spring 2015 // 28

look 5: Again, we heavily advocate wearing white at all times. This is exactly why we felt it would be wrong to not style an all white look. And frankly, this one is so chic it hurts. This is the type of look where the sun shines on you and you shine back. This Izod neoprene classic fit lends a free and fluid silhouette that goes hand in hand with the all-white-everything style. Pair with dark details like a black or dark brown loafer, a colored or black belt (like the one pictured here from Southern Tide) and dark shades. If you really want to be bold, this would be the perfect venue to bring out vivid color accents like a deep red belt or colored loafers.

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look 6: On a chilly day, or for a chill occasion, this look prepares you for anything.

The light layering of this Southern Tide upper-deck pull over with this Chaps gingham create a snug base for your style.

In addition, the neutral Southern Tide khakis dress down the ensemble in a manner that allows the complete look to hold its own from a business casual perspective. The sensible aesthetic it represents gives this outfit a meet the parents or meeting with boss feel.

Look 6: Navy Southern Tide upper deck club pull over // Chaps mint gingham shirt 55.00 Gap Factory seersucker short $39.99

look 7: The polo and the chino short—two staples of prep style. Though both very run-of-the-mill garments, they can offer a very dull feel if not styled efficiently. This Southern Tide SkipJack polo in combination with the Southern Tide Bay Side short and Apt. 9 oxfords give a well cultivated appearance. The polo offers work and play connotations with the switch of a button, and the cuffed shorts and oxfords give an effortless touch of class. Bar appropriate or golf course chic, this one is ready for everything, every time.

Look 7: Gap Men’s shirt $44.99 // Southern Tide Skipjack polo // Southern Tide Bayside short spring 2015 // 30

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story: devon jefferson photography: ryan dehamer

It’s 4:25 p.m. on a Thursday evening. It’s beautiful outside, but I can’t appreciate it because my brain is anxious as hell. I hope I’m not late. What if I look weak? Lord, please give me the fortitude to not throw up the spaghetti I ate an hour earlier. Images of what the gym will be like are mixed in with my other thoughts: Huge men scowling at my laughable muscles, people doing sit-ups holding plates, guys grunting and throwing around bars loaded with iron — I’m starting to get intimidated at this point.

Just about 22 hours before, at 6:30 p.m., I sat down with Kyle Van Winkle, the owner of Max Oxygen CrossFit Gym, and he assured me they did things differently on his turf. Despite his words of reassurance, I’m spring 2015 // 31

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still very nervous to shed my MacBook and notebook in order to become a part of the workout.The fact that this gym was different was almost immediately apparent when talking to Kyle about Max Oxygen.

“The thing I love seeing is people walking to the door and they’re super nervous and meek, but the nice thing about us and our gym is we tailor everything to the 98 percent of Ames: the college kid, the stay–at–home mom, the working dad, the working mom,” says Van Winkle.

It’s now 4:30 p.m., and I walk into the “CrossFit Box,” as they call it. The coaches call everyone onto the astroturf in the center of the Box to take a knee and discuss today’s workout. I look to my left and I see Tracy Rial, a middle-aged man who looks to weigh about 230 pounds. I glance to my right, and I see Deklyn Duchene, an 11-year-old girl who can’t weigh more than 100 pounds. It’s obvious that Van Winkle spoke the truth the day before.

The coach leading today’s workout immediately introduces me to everyone and makes it clear that if they don’t reciprocate, it’s their ass. The energy and community is very evident and infectious. My anxious

feelings dissipate instantly. Community is a word that Van Winkle uses a lot.

“We give that sense of community that’s hard to find at other places.

Nobody wants to go to a place where they don’t feel welcome.”

Van Winkle knows that sense of community all too well, growing up in Story City, playing football at Iowa State and training Ames High athletes. He got his start coaching at Colorado State, working with individual athletes. There he helped create workouts focusing on speed and agility and hands-on training coupled with weightlifting.

Van Winkle became a well-rounded personal trainer from building workouts that are specifically designed to sport.

Soon, he would find himself using his experience training college level athletes to break into the industry of CrossFit. He joined in a partnership with David Tittle to open Max Oxygen CrossFit. Tittle, owner of CrossFit Low Oxygen, located in Frisco, Colorado, is also a CrossFit Headquarters Seminar Staff member and a judge for the Reebok CrossFit Games. Tittle heard word that Ames was the perfect location for CrossFit because of all the people seeking a spring 2015 // 32

healthier lifestyle.

Tittle quickly found this to be true. “It’s people coming together that are looking for quality of life and independent living and trying to get better,” Tittle says. “Ultimately, it is just people supporting each other, no matter if you’re first or last or the weakest or the strongest or whatever — just people working out and sharing that common trait of being fearless.”

One of the most amazing things at Max Oxygen is the amazing group of people we have. The sense of community there, seeing familiar faces that support each other, in my opinion, is the foundation of CrossFit.” We start by going over the workout as a group, with heavy emphasis on correct movements and tailoring the activities to fit our individual fitness levels. We have five

"our theme at the gym is that we want to get at least one percent better everyday."

Kyle Van Winkle, Gym Owner

sir magazine rotations in a continuous circuit, divided into five minute intervals. It starts with gymnastic ring dips and continues with overhead shoulder jerk press. Next up are sandbag updowns, and we finish with two minutes and 30 seconds of rowing.

I’m sweating profusely at this point, and I’m only on my second set. I look to my left and catch a glimpse of Rial’s sweaty shirt — which says “Tittle Trained” on the back — and see him pushing through the workout with an intensity I want to match.

I look to my right and Duchene is keeping up with everyone, while I am lagging behind.

But they all keep me going. Everyone in the Box is shouting motivating things, and one of the guys comes up to me and compliments me on my rowing — which is the true dagger of this workout — and says how I can be incredible at it. It seems every time I want to give up, the other people working out give me a reason to lower my head and push through the pain.

It is now 5:59 p.m., and I have 20 seconds left on the rowing machine before successfully completing my first CrossFit workout at Max Oxygen. I am currently pretty gaseous and keep burping up remnants of that spaghetti from earlier. And even though my body is on fire, I feel the need to keep pushing to keep up with the two guys beside me. It’s almost as if we have some sort of unspoken understanding to push the hell out of each other for these final seconds.

“Time,” the coach yells, and I slowly grind to a halt.

The fan is still blowing from the machine as I hop up to my feet and am greeted with high-fives and pats on the back. Both guys beside me are all smiles and nothing but positive energy. I came into this situation extremely uncomfortable. But I leave with my chest out, proud of what I’ve done. Tittle commented on how the gym seeks to take you out of your comfort zone to better your health and mentality as a human being.

“We’re talking about people that are allowing themselves to be exposed to things that aren’t easy, and that is the only way that you grow. You gotta be comfortable with being uncomfortable to truly realize your potential.”

Now, it’s 6:10 p.m., and after clean up, we are all gathered together again on the turf, and I get the chance to pick the brains of my fellow CrossFitters. It’s in those few moments talking with them that I realize the magnitude of this fitness community and what it has does for their lives.

Shelby Dickes, an ISU student and new member to Max Oxygen, talks about how wonderful her experience has been since she has joined.

“I’m new to CrossFit, but so far my favorite part is the camaraderie. The second I came here I was swarmed with support.

People get so happy for you when you accomplish something for yourself.”

Chris Rial, wife of Tracy, relishes the empowering atmosphere the coaches have created. “Kyle is just the best. He makes everybody feel like they can do anything.”

Tracy jokes that his wife has an alternate motivation to come to Max Oxygen every day. “My wife’s favorite part is David Tittle.

He’s a handsome fella,” Tracy chuckled.

All in all, my time with these people illustrated the beating heart of Max Oxygen CrossFit. All of these people from different demographics come together each day and help each other become better.

“Our theme at the gym is that we want to get at least one percent better everyday.

Some days you’re gonna hit a max or personal record and others you won’t, but the beauty of CrossFit is that there is another day to get better,” Van Winkle says.

What was even more profound about my time with the people of Max Oxygen was the immense “every man, every woman, together,” mentality that everyone participating shared. No matter if it were a young Duchene, a seasoned Rial, or a sluggish fellow like myself, we were a part of something bigger when working out in that box. There was no workout that was too hard or any situation where anyone was alienated because of his or her skillset.

Coaches accommodated and advocated for our success.

“I’ve never met anybody that I felt CrossFit is not for them. I feel like anybody and everybody can do it,” Tittle says. “There is no reason that an elite level athlete and someone who is trying to stay out of a nursing home can’t be in the same space working out together.”

In my experience, it felt great to be in that room with people who represented the 98 percent of Ames. Not only did Max Oxygen have something to offer me, they also had something to offer everyone. In the end, it was great to be a part of something bigger — an opportunity that is available every day at Max Oxygen.

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sir magazine story: william byal photography: IOwa State Athletics

on a mission

cliff stokes

Feeling his pocket buzz for the tenth time that day, Cliff Stokes picked up yet another phone call from a Division 1 recruiter, the voice on the other side asking, “Are you still on board?”

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Stokes responded with the same mundane line he had rehearsed during the previous calls.

“I’m still thinking about it and talking with my parents.”

With 30 offers on the table, days like this were typical for Stokes, and the stress of the painstaking decision process had taken its toll on the 19-year-old recruit out of Tallahassee, Florida. That night Stokes used his free time to relax his mind and reflect on the schools that had called. Before he went to sleep, he asked the Lord to steer him in the right direction, seeking the best opportunity to earn a quality degree while playing football in the national spotlight.

The next morning, Stokes woke up to the aroma of his mom cooking pancakes and bacon with a side of grits, but the only thing that was truly on his mind was Iowa State.

Stokes immediately called his dad, Cliff Stokes, Sr., and told him he had made his decision to play for Iowa State. His dad told him that he fully supported the decision, and that he was happy Stokes was getting the chance to not only play Division 1 football, but to also get a college degree — something he was unable to achieve himself. The next call Stokes made was to the head football coach for Iowa State, Paul Rhodes.

Coach Rhodes immediately wanted to know why Stokes chose Iowa State over all the other schools. Stokes told Rhodes that he liked the fact that Iowa State had a high graduation rate, offered a good environment for school and felt that Rhodes was a coach who actually cared. Plus, Stokes had done his own research and discovered that Rhodes had personally coached Darrelle Revis, a top cornerback in the NFL. This fact backed up Rhodes’ credibility as a defensive coach, which was what Stokes was looking for coming in as a cornerback. To top things off, Stokes had the opportunity to watch Iowa State knock off no. 2 ranked Oklahoma State during his campus visit. Seeing so many players from the Florida region playing at such a high level inspired Stokes.

When Stokes first arrived in Ames, over 1,000 miles away from his family, he looked at it as an opportunity to grow as a

sir magazine man, despite being in a new atmosphere.

With little to no support system besides daily phone calls to his father, it was tough making the transition to a smaller city and a sprawling campus like Iowa State.

Just a few months into the semester, Stokes found the support he needed when he met an Ames resident on his way back from spring break.

Stokes was flying back from Florida when a middle aged woman sat between him and a student from UNI. Stokes casually greeted the woman, while the other kid proceeded to put his headphones in.

The woman introduced herself as Mary Zimmerman, an Iowa State alumna. The two talked about Stokes’ season as a football player for the Cyclones and continued to carry on a conversation for the whole trip.

Zimmerman says she knew right away that there was something different about Stokes by the way he treated her and carried himself.

“The focus he had on his family and his faith was what made me see how unique and grounded he is. You hear that saying, ‘Faith, family, football.’ Ya know, some people say that. I don’t know if they really walk the walk. I think that Cliff does. He doesn’t profess like that; he just lives it,” Zimmerman says.

The additional support of his second family in Ames made the jump to a Division 1 school much easier on Stokes. However, with great opportunities came equally great challenges. Expecting to be the starting cornerback for the Cyclones wasn’t exactly in the cards, since 10 out of 12 players from the nickelback sent went to NFL camps following the 2012 season. His focus was to get to a starting spot. In order to do so, he would have to take the coaching and work to get better than the guy ahead of him.

Coach Mitchell Moore, the new special teams coach at the time, bonded with Stokes instantly. They were both entering their first year at Iowa State, so the connection provided a chance for both of them to get better. Stokes may have only been a second string corner at the time, but his relationship with coach Moore helped him take in the coaching he needed, work extra hard to prove that he could earn a starting spot and, most importantly, lead by example.

“He took his job very seriously as a football player. Other teammates saw that, and they wanted to work like he did,” Moore says.

Moore says Stokes dealt with adversity

by watching the guy ahead of him, taking the coaching from Rhodes with open ears and getting better day in and day out. Those are the types of things you have to learn to have a chance to play at the Division 1 level, Moore says. The time and effort Stokes put forth into developing his skills gave him the opportunity to finally start his junior year.

This patience paid off as Stokes proved to be an asset on the defense by minimizing mistakes, and remaining sound defensively.

As Stokes’ ISU football career came to a close, his connection with Moore remained strong, this time on a professional level.

Returning to Athens, Texas to train for the NFL landed Stokes a part time coaching job for his former Juco team, Trinity Valley Community College. After a successful season and a championship run, the coaching offers began to roll in from other junior college teams. He was even talking to coaches Rhodes and Moore during camps when they came to scout the same players he had coached. With all the offers and obvious

"He's going to make it. i have no doubt in my mind that he's going to be where he wants to be. he's a focused young man. he knows what he wants, and he hasn't stopped, no matter all his trials and tribulations," Cliff Stokes, Sr., Stokes’ Father

connections, Stokes wasn’t quite ready to pursue coaching as his primary occupation.

“I want to coach, but at the same time I still have love for this game, and I’m still young enough that I can play this game.

So when I still have love for it, I don’t feel there’s a need to hang the cleats up yet,” Stokes says.

Moore claims that Stokes’ experience as a coach probably made him better as a player because he was able to see the game from a coach’s perspective. Plus, at a height at 6 feet 2 inches, which is “above average for a cornerback,” tremendous ball skills and his added football smarts, there really is no reason to give up on that NFL dream.

“He’s got a chance to make it as high as he can, if he gets the chance,” Moore says.

After the season for Trinity Valley was spring 2015 // 35

over, Stokes received a call from Coach Erv Strohbeen of the Sioux City Bandits, an arena team he played for after Iowa State. He offered Stokes a contract to play professional indoor football. This was an opportunity for Stokes to build on his craft, so no time was wasted. Stokes was on the move again, this time it was back to the field.

“Day one of camp I’m letting everyone know that I have a bad taste in my mouth.

I’m angry. I know that I deserve to be in the NFL, and I’m going to get there sooner or later,” Stokes says. “I’m just going to control what I can control, continue to give it to the Lord and have a positive attitude every day.”

Stokes’ return not only went well, but it gained him a lot of respect from the coaching staff, who let him know that he was the guy they needed to lead their defense and make big plays. His chance at the dream of playing in the NFL is only another chance, another opportunity away from becoming reality. With the type of drive inside of Stokes, there’s no limit to what can be achieved, he says. “Just believe” are the two words Stokes lives by every day. He doesn’t get down when things don’t go his way. He turns the situation into a positive, which is how his father raised him.

“He’s going to make it. I have no doubt in my mind that he’s going to be where he wants to be. He’s a focused young man. He knows what he wants, and he hasn’t stopped, no matter all his trials and tribulations,” Stokes, Sr. says. “I’m one of the proudest men in the world to have him as my son.”

Whatever happens to Stokes and his journey towards the NFL Dream, he will always pride himself on being a humble individual that doesn’t give up on his own dreams — no matter what. Lying in bed every night to this day he’s waiting for that call, that opportunity that will land him where he wants to be — in the NFL. Stokes lays his head on the pillow and prays to the Lord that he will soon get his chance. If things don’t go his way this time, there’s one thing he does know: who he is as a person and the character that was built during the trials of football.

“I’m just a guy that’s trying to be great in all aspects of life,” Stokes says. “Focusing on being a better friend, brother, son and a better follower in Christ.”

sir magazine

Short and stocky. He paces around the gym in his socks. Balding. Reading glasses. But, that’s how you can really spot the tough guys.

He could walk around the gym in a clown nose and nobody could say a thing to him. He stands with a wide-eyed gaze analyzing every move.

He is completely dedicated to both the sport of boxing and his students. His work ethic surpasses even his most dedicated fighters. He leaves right from his classes and practice to go to work for Union Pacific Railroad. Although the hours are late, he prefers them because they give him more time in the gym. The shift is one most of his colleagues don’t want. He could be making more money, but this schedule provides him with something more valuable—the ability to impart his passion to dedicated athletes.

If you want to be a boxer at Iowa State, you go to the Iowa State Boxing Club. And the guy you go to is Jon Swanson. Students go to him a wad of cookie dough, and after a few weeks, he carves them into wood. He has a history of taking students with littleto-no boxing experience and turning them into fierce competitors.

Swanson is a lifer to the sport of boxing.

“It’s a family thing,” he says. The youngest of three brothers, he started boxing at the age of 10. He also wrestled in college at Stony Brook University in New York. Being the youngest hardened him, and he’s always been a tough guy. His mannerisms show that he’s welcoming in every way possible, but demands respect at the same time.

story: christian law photography: Cássio de miguel

In the gym, a lone banner hangs. Katy Perry plays through the speaker as the sound of sweaty skin hitting medicine balls creates a backbeat. The gym is like a music studio— punching bags ringing, pads pounding against pads.

spring 2015 // 36

“Left, right, right, left, right,” Swanson yells.

“One, one, two, five, two, three, six, again!” They’re musicians hitting the notes right on time.

The player-coach dynamic isn’t as authoritarian as would be expected in these situations. Swanson is very conversational and encourages feedback. He keeps them in line, keeps them hustling and makes sure their eyes are on the prize. But he gives them freedom. Although this is the state of the relationship now, it begins much more strictly.

“As they become more familiar and learn what they’re doing, they take on a bigger part of the process,” he says.

This dynamic also highlights what Swanson sees as the most important aspect of the club.

“It’s just part of the family atmosphere we try to create.”

A lot of locker rooms talk about family, and oftentimes it seems cliché. That’s not the case with the members of this small, close-knit group.

Boxing is not a sport for the lighthearted. Swanson asks his fighters to invest countless hours every week, despite having other responsibilities. The club has a class every Monday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., but these are just recruits, for lack of a better term. Swanson says he doesn’t like the term recruit. He’s not recruiting. He’s just looking for people with a certain dedication. He looks for a passion for boxing, and if they have it, he invites them to the team.

Members of the team practice with Swanson daily. His schedule revolves around being able to maximize their workout time.

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He works the boxers on everything from sparring to conditioning, just like any full-fledged program. But why? “Most people, normal people, do just about anything to avoid a fight.” If that’s true, then I think it’s safe to say the members of the boxing club are far from normal. They welcome a fight. In Swanson’s words, “Hitting the bag is aerobics.” To call yourself a real fighter you have to get in the ring, and these men and women are always in the ring.

is validated, because coach Swanson is more invested in the club than anyone. With all he puts in, it’s a shame that the club feels it doesn’t get the respect it deserves. Coach mentions they don’t have hoodies because he doesn’t like the fact they have to put “club” on it. When they travel to New York or Des Moines the boxers they’re facing don’t have “club” across their chest.

To understand why they work so hard, you have to understand what they are competing against. Go and watch the movie Annapolis. In military academies, like the Navy, everyone boxes. The best in each class competes against the best in other classes, and the winner gets to represent the program around the country. This is who coach Swanson and his boxers are competing against—the best of the best. This is what inspires Swanson to push his pupils that extra mile.

The gym that they practice in is simple: punching bags and a ring. The room is dark and musty, with chains and hooks hanging from the ceiling. The equipment doesn’t have to be state of the art. That’s not what’s important. They train until their muscles burn and their veins pump battery acid.

Then they train some more. That’s how champions are born. This philosophy is shared by the best members of the club, those that have reached great heights.

The practice is a very intense atmosphere. Compare it to walking in on an argument between two family members.

That’s what they are to each other, family.

They bark at each other and drive one another to improve. Even during water breaks they throw punches with smiles on their faces. As practice goes on, the intensity revs up. They take punches to the ribs for conditioning. And then they leave with bloody noses and bloody T-shirts. This is a lot to ask of club athletes, but their passion

looking for an outlet, Meyer has now been making headlines with Swanson’s help. She was named one of Glamour magazine’s hometown heroes.

Swanson calls Olivia “the daughter I never had.” He took her onto the team with no experience and has helped her grow both in and out of the ring. He stresses her education and talks to her about her goal of going to medical school, while teaching her to throw haymakers. Swanson seems more eager to open up and talk about Olivia than himself. He’s genuine when he says he loves her.

Women only began competing in 2013 and Meyer took the first 147 pound title.

Swanson has a great deal of pride in the performance of his girls, with three on the team including Meyer. “A lot of girls stay stationary in the ring,” he says. “We don’t do that here.”

"coach just wants us to succeed.

He's always there to push us to give more."

Tony Dawson, Boxer, Iowa State Boxing Club

Club athletes don’t always get the most credit, but the boxers on the ISU team are elite. The team has a lot to be proud of — primarily, Olivia Meyer.

Swanson has helped her grow as both a leader and boxer over the past two years.

Meyer is Iowa State’s first female boxing champion. A junior who started out just

spring 2015 // 38

He wants to see these girls succeed like they are his own daughters. That’s how it is with the team. They’re a family. At the head of that family is Jon Swanson. Ask any of his team members and they have nothing but the highest praise for him.

“Coach just wants us to succeed,” says Tony Dawson, one of his boxers. “He’s always there to push us to give more.”

Swanson just sees it as doing his part in the sport he has loved all his life. Swanson says the entire boxing community is like that, so it’s only natural. Competitors accommodate each other when they have tough schedules to work around and go out to big meals to reminisce about tournaments.

The team’s attitude follows Swanson’s own. Their dedication and hard work is an extension of his passion toward them and the sport they mutually love.

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story: bailey mcgrath photography: blake lanser

spring 2015 // 39

sir magazine

the

w h i s tle blows and the game and battle begins, as the referee drops the ball into the center of the pool. Water splashes everywhere as arms fly through the pool in pursuit of the yellow ball. A field player retrieves the ball, and the first play of the water polo match begins.

Players pass the ball down the pool, similar to moving a basketball down a court, except they can only use one hand.

The center receives the ball, explodes out of the water and shoots the ball into the goal, getting past the goalkeeper’s outstretched arms.

Water polo is a lot like other field sports in the sense that players make their way down a field in pursuit of a goal. But in this game the field is a pool at least 6 feet deep, forcing players to tread water and fight off opponents under water, while still maintaining awareness of the field.

“The water just adds an extra dimension to the sport,” says graduate student Michael Dairyko.

One group of men has mastered those challenges, which led them to the National Collegiate Club Championship for the first time in seven years — the ISU Water Polo Club.

Being a club sport, members of the Water Polo Club come from a variety of different athletic backgrounds, but many, like members Dairyko and senior Nicholas Dimenstein, have a strong swimming background.

“I’ve been swimming competitively since I was a little kid,” Dimenstein says.

That naturally led him to search for other aquatic activities. First hearing about water polo in high school, he decided to join the club at Iowa State to meet new people and gain new skills.

Dairyko was also exposed to water polo in high school and walked on his college team as an undergraduate in California and “fell in love with it.” Wanting to meet new people and stick with a sport he loved, Dairyko joined the club when he came to Iowa State, which he describes as still competitive, but more social and laid back.

“We get down to business, and we play hard; but we also have fun as a club and try not to get too intense,” Dairyko says.

The Water Polo Club practices for two hours, twice a week in the Beyer Hall pool. Their time is limited, as they have to share their facility time with open swim and other organizations. But they utilize every minute. Practice starts with a 200­yard swim, treading and sprint warm up sets. They then practice passes and run through various game­like situation drills. Practice ends by going through offense and scrimmaging.

Club members are in charge of creating a hierarchy and running these practices, along with setting up tournaments and budgeting for equipment and other expenses.

"i always like to joke that when you play water polo, you learn to swim and punch at the same time."

Mike Dairyko, Iowa State Student

“It’s a lot on our backs, but it also gives us our own leeway,” Dimenstein says.

While players’ heads are their most visible feature in practices and games, the team is made up of a variety of body types.

Dimenstein says that works in their favor because “for water polo you need a whole range of different body sizes and heights.”

He compares the sport to football. “You need people that are big. Then you need people that are quick.”

The sport is full contact, says Dairyko, but unlike football, there are no pads, only caps to protect players’ ears.

To spectators, the game of water polo seems to be smooth sailing. But what they can’t see from the stands is where the true nature of the game begins — underneath the surface.

“There’s this general rule of thumb that whatever happens under the water, stays under the water,” Dairyko says. spring 2015 // 40

That’s because the field of play is above water, so it’s easy for rough play underwater to get past the referee. Kicking, scratching and punching are not uncommon — neither is players messing with each other’s suits.

“You can grab the side of someone’s suit, and that works really well as a handle.

Mike’s pulled my suit down a thousand times,” Dimenstein chuckles (with no denial from Diaryko).

For the most part Dimenstein and Diaryko try to avoid playing dirty, but once someone else starts, they say things can get a little unruly. This can pose quite a challenge when players are already swimming on top of each other to defend their goals.

“I always like to joke that when you play water polo, you learn to swim and punch at the same time,” Diaryko says.

Changes in mindset can also lead to a slightly more rowdy game. Diaryko likes to think he’s mild­mannered outside of water polo, but once he hits the water, his intensity level spikes. “I’ve been told I’m heavy handed, so if I swim next to someone, I might hit him in the head without meaning to,” he says. And Dimenstein once accidently broke an opponent’s nose. Overall, in water polo, players just have to learn to take a hit, and if they choose to play dirty, they must hide it well.

Regardless of the challenges of the game, the Water Polo Club welcomes anyone to the team and never cuts members.

Since they are competing at club level, Dimenstein says their mentality isn’t just to “win, win, win,” but to also have fun and improve their skills.

The team is able to feed off each other during the game and laugh off their struggles afterward thanks to a strong foundation— friendship. The guys spend a lot of time together as a team both in and out of the water, having get-­togethers or going out to dinner — quality guy time.

“Sometimes you hear things like, ‘There’s the water polo house,’ so sometimes we get that reputation,” Dimenstein says.

“But we’re definitely unified by something different: It’s kind of the common goal, the common sport.”

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story: DEVON JEFFERSON photography: blake lanser

the perfect demise With 41 seconds left in the game, Monté Morris buried a jumper giving the Cyclones a one-point lead over the University of Alabama-Birmingham Blazers. Following a missed jumper by Georges Niang, a foul

by Jameel McKay and another missed opportunity by Naz Long, the Cyclones found themselves down two with three seconds left on the clock at the KFC YUM! Center in Louisville, Kentucky.

A clutch offensive-rebound and twopoint tip by Morris put the Cyclones within one point of the Blazers. After a season filled with nail-biting comebacks,“The Comeback Kids,” as they had been deemed by many, weren’t able to execute this time.

When the final buzzer sounded with a thunderous crackle, UAB players leaped to the rafters, celebrating the first No. 3 seed upset in round 64 of the 2015 NCAA tournament.

The Cyclones’ record-breaking season ended as abruptly as the buzzer that cued their exit. With towels hung over their heads, they reluctantly answered reporters’ tough questions about their early departure from the tournament many thought they had

a chance to win. There was no explanation for what had just happened.

"I've seen his eagerness and willingness to be special since when he was real young"

Spencer Eason, Former Coach

Trailing near the end of a game was nothing new for the team. In fact, in their last five games before the tournament, Iowa State trailed by a combined 75 points, but defied the odds, coming back to win each one. They always found a last second shot, like the electrifying game-winning jumper from Morris against Texas in the tournament opener, or a final surge, like the comeback win against Kansas for the Big 12 championship—a game when the Cyclones recovered from a 14-point deficit at halftime and outscored the Jayhawks 47–29 in the second half. This game was different though.

In the first half, UAB scored nine points off of nine Iowa State turnovers. Morris had three turnovers—his fourth career game, out of 70, with at least three turnovers.

Dustin Hogue didn’t score a single point in the game, a first in his Iowa State career.

Throughout the game UAB managed to spring 2015 // 42

snatch 19 rebounds, tied for the most the Cyclones allowed this season. The Blazers had as many offensive rebounds as the entire Cyclone team posted for the game—nine, one-fourth of their season average of 35.9.

Maybe one of the biggest differences is that The Comeback Kids didn’t trail by a large deficit, entering the second half behind only three points.

“This is as tough a loss as I’ve ever dealt with, and I think if you ask each and everyone of those guys, probably as they’ve dealt with,” Fred Hoiberg commented after the game. Dustin Hogue called their loss “embarrassing.”

“We have no one to blame but ourselves,” said Naz Long.

Through a torrent of statements filled with disappointment and regret, the poise and collectedness of one voice stood out.

That voice came from Morris.

“With the high expectations you have for yourself and your teammates, when we came out there and played like that, it’s just straight pitiful,” Morris said.

the full monte The bite of losing is something Morris’ hasn’t had much experience with. In fact,

sir magazine In his freshman season, the team boasted the fifth highest points-per-game average in its 107-year existence. Adding to Morris’ résumé, after breaking the NCAA’s assist-to-turnover ratio with a 4.7 in the 20132014 season, he lead the Cyclones to backto-back Big 12 titles, increased his scoring average from 6.8 to 11.9 points per contest, increased his steal and rebound totals and continues to lead the NCAA in the assist-toturnover ratio (as of March 31, 2015).

Morris plays the game with an incredible amount of precision and an edge that his mother Tonya says is inspired from the basketball culture in his hometown of Flint, Michigan. “That Flint edge is that we are winners, and we don’t stop; and we are going to go hard day in and day out,” she says.

Tonya describes Morris as a situational player that is all about winning. As early as she can remember, he has been a leader and that when he clicked, the team clicked with him.

“Winning is something he can’t help but do. He doesn’t know anything else,” Tonya says.

Which also happens to be a critical part of the Cyclones-patented “Hoiball” style of play.

the dynasty

photo credit to Kelby wingert // Iowa State Daily the 6-foot-2 sophomore guard—a top 100 national recruit—has won, and or played at an elite level, since elementary school, when he and his team won two Alexandria Youth Basketball Club titles and a title in the highly-competitive Amatuer Athletic Union league.

In middle school Morris and his team won two state titles, and in high school, he led the Beecher Buccaneers to four straight final four state tournament appearances, where they won two state titles. Spencer Eason, Morris’ first basketball coach, has been working with him since he was in second grade. Even at the age of 8, Morris’ zeal and determination that kept him in the winning circle was something that Eason noticed.

“I’ve seen his eagerness and willingness to be special since when he was real young,” says Eason.

A few instances in particular set Morris apart in Eason’s mind; after seeing older kids on the team making left-hand lay-ups, Morris

asked Eason to stay after practice to help him perfect his own. “From that, on up until now, he has always been the type of kid to work to get better,” Eason says.

In their team’s fifth grade elementary championship game, Eason remembers coming into the locker room overhearing Morris speaking to his teammates. “At that point I knew we was gonna win the championship. I guess some guys were in there playing or whatever, you know, they’re kids, but I heard him say, ‘Man, you need to get focused; we isn’t trying to lose,’” Eason says.

With an undefeated score, they went on to win the championship game that year—a title they retained the following year.

Coming into the 2013-2014 season for the Iowa State Cyclones as a true freshman, Morris contributed heavily to the team’s success — starting in the last 17 games of the season capped with a Big 12 championship title. spring 2015 // 43

From a big picture standpoint, the Cyclones have been developed at an impressive rate over the past five years.

Of the team’s 17 NCAA tournament appearances in its 108-year existence, four have come consecutively within that five year period. In the 2010-2011 season—Hoiberg’s first as head coach—the team posted a 50 percent win-loss ratio, a four percent increase from the previous one.

Just four years later the team increased that ratio by 23 percent. In Morris’ first season, he contributed to a 12 percent increase in the win-loss ratio category, half of the overall improvement since 2010. That same season, Morris helped the Cyclones claim the eighth slot in the Associated Press final seed ranking—the second highest in school history.

Both coaching staff and players attest to the fact that Morris’ addition has helped the team significantly improve. Assistant coach Cornell Mann helped recruit Morris and continues to work with him closely since seeing his ability to facilitate growth among

sir magazine both the team and individual members.

“That was the first thing that alerted us to him, was just his ability to make other players better. He would win no matter who he had on his team,” says Mann.

the future

Building upon the list of team-oriented improvements Morris has contributed in his first season with the team, his ball handling helped the Cyclones commit 85 fewer turnovers than they did the previous season. Consequently, the teams scoring average went up from 79.4 points per game to 83. With his introduction, key players like Niang and Long posted increased scoring averages—a collective nine points from the previous season.

“I think his building blocks are set and now he just has to build on them,” Mann says. The Cyclones will enter the season with a solid base to build on as well.

Morris’ talents gel well and add to the team’s promise. With five of the team’s eight core players returning next season, anything is possible. Hallice Cooke, sophomore transfer from Oregon State, believes that Morris’ mentality is a great addition to the competitive team.

“He responds to every challenge well; he’ll find a way to just brush it off. His mental toughness is like no other,” says Cooke.

In the words of Mann, Morris is a “twoway player,” who can get it done offensively and defensively in an elite manner.

With many of the team’s most promising players returning to its lineup next year, there will be a very natural flow to how the team functions. Factoring in new players like Cooke and other incoming recruits, there is an exceptional margin for improvement for the Cyclones.

One of the biggest keys to success the Cyclones currently has as reigning backto-back Big 12 champions, is an absolute dominance over the conference, leveraging them a higher national ranking. With all of the hype surrounding this team though, Morris continues to maintain a perspective that puts winning and the team first.

“You’re playing for more than the name on your jersey,” Morris says.

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Morris’ words foreshadow the road ahead for this talented team. Morris expressed his determination to “make history rather than follow it,” and though the Cyclones have done just that in the last five years, he has his sights set higher.

“I wanna make it to the Final Four and win a national championship,” Morris says. “I feel like if I was to leave without doing that, it’s a trip wasted.”

One of the most exciting pieces of this teams future is Morris’ personal development as a premier point guard. Whether focusing on his stats, or looking at his demeanor as a player, Morris has already shown notable growth in his first two seasons wearing cardinal and gold. With there being no end to his time here at Iowa State anytime soon, progression is promised for Morris.

“I got a lot of work to do, and that’s the scary part. I feel like I am getting credit, and they haven’t seen me evolve,” Morris says.

“I’m nowhere near my peak.”

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