Go Regents
Walter Payton’s family highlight of fall student-athlete programs Student-athletes heard from the family of the NFL’s No. 2 all-time leading running back and learned how to keep their relationships and diets healthy in three special programs last semester. The athletics department sponsored the fall sessions with partial funding provided by the National Collegiate Athletic Association through the Strategic Initiatives Grant: Social Responsibility and Integration. Topics were based on suggestions student-athletes made in a 2015–2016 satisfaction survey, and supported their development toward a well-balanced lifestyle and personal growth, emotional well-being, and solid decision-making. In cooperation with the Rockford University Forum Series and the Office of Student Success and Retention, athletics hosted the wife and son of legendary Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton, Connie and Jarrett Payton, in September during a Rock Solid Success Seminar for student-athletes. The presenting duo from the Payton Family Foundation spoke about how the late NFL great’s vision, intense determination, and “never die easy” motto allowed Walter Payton to prosper personally and professionally. Jarrett Payton talked candidly about the mistakes he made as an entitled young man, and strongly encouraged our student-athletes to show up in life, remain on task and not follow a path of mediocrity in athletics and academics. “You’ve got to be present for your opportunity, for your greatness,” he said. Being prepared with a backup plan – and “backup of the backup plan” – that doesn’t include sports was Connie Payton’s advice, and she detailed some of the setbacks her husband faced in his post-football career. Connie and Jarrett Payton.
One Love, ‘Eat to Compete’ round out offerings Also in September, the Rockford-based Amanda Reed Foundation provided a workshop to studentathletes from national nonprofit One Love Foundation on the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships, warning signs of violence, and the tools to recognize and assist others in tenuous situations. Participants viewed a film, took part in a guided discussion, and learned about an app called “My Plan” that quizzes users about their relationship health and offers tips and other resources. Lastly for the fall semester’s lineup, the “Eat to Compete” program taught student-athletes to make healthier choices, with pre-competition meal planning, dining hall tips and nutrition ideas for traveling to away games. The presentation was well-received, as participants learned how their choices affect their success on the court or field as well as in the classroom. As a member of NCAA Division III, Rockford University athletics continues to provide opportunities for student-athletes to learn, compete, and succeed! As stated in the Division III positioning platform, studentathletes are encouraged to pursue the full spectrum of opportunities available during their time in college. In this way, Division III provides an integrated environment for student-athletes to take responsibility for their own paths, follow their passions and learn their potential through a comprehensive educational experience.
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