The start of a new school year is always exciting, always filled with hope and expectations of a new year. As our semester started this week I had an opportunity to meet with each of our teams in hopes of explaining our expectations to student-athletes. As will be the case all year, I tried to focus on the theme, 'What does remarkable look like in Fleet Athletics." I might have a benchmark for what I think it looks like but we don't really know exactly so it is with much anticipation that this year begins. We have a passionate group of coaches that relish the opportunity of seeking the remarkable. It is through their leadership that I am confident our student-athletes will be motivated to accomplish the remarkable this year on the playing fields, in the classroom, in both the Erskine and Due West community, and in their faith. It is easy to use the word remarkable but to actually live it out is an enormous challenge. It takes great vision, perseverance, and commitment to achieve remarkable.
Maybe the most important aspect of achieving the remarkable is not actually achieving but in the journey itself. Actually making dreams come true as champions on the field, stars in the world of academia, and super faith-based sportsmen isn't all that remarkable if along the way the journey isn't appreciated and enjoyed. Long after the trophies get rusty and the diplomas go on walls that we never look at, all that will be left are memories of a journey and relationships that are made along the way.
So as I looked at the 280 or so student-athletes this week I know it is more than about accomplishment for them. People say college is the best four years of your life so if that is the case, truly building relationships with each other and living in the moment are critical. As we start this year with great anticipation of seeing the remarkable, we have to make sure we understand all that goes into it. As we strive to win championships, receive academic honors, and be good servant leaders in our community we have to be reminded of a big piece of the puzzle. Whether we are student-athletes, coaches, athletic trainers, or administrators we are going to work extremely hard and sacrifice much this year, but let us all remember to stay focused on enjoying the journey and build lifelong memories through our relationships. That in itself will be remarkable. Let's go Fleet!
Erskine AD Mark Peeler updates his blog post at the first of each month
