What I have learned at Bowling Green thus far?

            I was hired in July of 2009 as the first ever academics graduate assistant for the men’s football team here at Bowling Green. I had no idea what I was doing and for the most part no one could help me as it was the first time anyone had such a position. Therefore, I spent most of the first fall running around like a chicken with its head cut off just trying to do everything. There were many long nights and a great deal of caffeine that first year. Constantly wondering what else I could do to make sure all the academic support was provided to the student-athlete at Bowling Green. I spent most of the year thinking to myself I am teaching these guys a lot about responsibility and maturity. Though now I look back almost two years removed and realize that the student-athletes taught me.

            Characteristics such as organization, preparation, and time management were all things I constantly harped upon to the athletes and now I realize that all that was also aimed directly at me. As a result, of this experience I have learned a great deal about time management to avoid pulling all nighters and also about knowing where exactly everything I need is at. Further, the players have taught me a lot about who I am becoming both as a man and now that my role has changed as a coach. I have always been a quiet and reserved person. Though having experienced several situations that required action and a stern voice have developed these attributes in me.

            From the football side having to recruit athletes has improved my communication abilities as well as my public speaking skills though there is still great room for additional improvement.  Also, having to be accountable not only to the older full-time staff members but also to the student-athletes who remarkably do not forget a word you say has improved my follow through and attention to completing assignments.

            So what have I learned at Bowling Green? I came here thinking I would learn more about the game I so dearly love and I have do not get me wrong. My knowledge base compared to when I arrived has improved tenfold. Though I have also learned social, organizational, and institutional rules that I will carry with me no matter where my next stop may be. Not bad considering I came out here not even knowing what I was doing.