Murray State University Athletics
Racer Athletics Selected for NCAA CHAMPS/Life Skills Program
9/1/2005 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Murray State athletics announced today that they have been selected by the NCAA for inclusion in the CHAMPS/Life Skills program for 2006.
CHAMPS is an acronym for: Challenging Athletes Minds for Personal Success.
The CHAMPS Life Skills program was developed in a partnership between NCAA and the Division 1-A Athletic Directors' Association to prepare student-athletes for the day when they will transition from their college careers to being responsible and productive members of society.
The mission of the CHAMPS program is to provide opportunities for personal development for each student-athlete based on his or her individual needs. The focus of the program is on the individual as a whole - academically, athletically, and emotionally.
Rosanne Radke previously served as MSU athletics learning specialist/academic advisor for the past three years, in particular working with student-athletes with learning disabilities. "I can't wait to get this program going. Not only will this benefit our student-athletes, but this will benefit the entire Murray community."
"We're not inventing something new here entirely. We are just combining the programs that are already available to the everyday student." Radked added, "Our student-athletes have such limited free time, that in many instances can't take advantage of these programs. This will enable us to help them achieve all their personal goals."
To get ready for the CHAMPS program, Radke will travel to Phoenix, Ariz. in February for training conducted by the NCAA.
Murray State assistant AD for academics Matt Kelly says he'll be able to see progress quickly, "I think that our student-athletes will embrace this program."
Murray State University aggressively sought to be included in the program for 2006. The NCAA conducted a thorough review of MSU athletics to ensure their commitment and university-wide support.
The CHAMPS program is comprised of five key commitments that address critical areas of personal development:
Commitment to Academic Excellence: This area focuses on improving the student-athlete's ability in study skills, communication skills, goal setting. Then the student-athlete will improve their academic performance
The Commitment to Athletic Excellence: Student-athletes will receive an enhanced experience while participating at MSU. This includes: nutrition counseling and strength training and improving all of the Racers sports programs.
The Commitment to Personal Development: Murray State athletics will help each student-athletes in their own personal development. This means teaching social skills, fundamental values, personal health, and financial skills.
The Commitment to Service: MSU athletics is committed to teaching student-athletes about community service. This will include providing opportunities for student-athletes to serve in community so that they will develop their own commitment to volunteerism.
The Commitment to Career Development: Student-Athletes love their sport and some will be able to compete professionally after college, but most will not. MSU will help student-athletes identify career goals and possible careers, and develop interview skills.
"This is a great day for MSU athletics," athletics director Allen Ward said. "Our student-athletes will benefit as we prepare them for life after college, I'm looking forward to the positive impact this is going to make on our total program at MSU."
Murray State is one of 34 institutions and conference offices implementing the CHAMPS program in the class of 2006.
There are 513 colleges and universities now participating in the program.
