Cavalier Corner is the publication just for UVa sports fans!
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IT STARTS WITH YOU THE PATH TO SUCCESS Academics Preparation Competition Service Graduation Lifelong Success ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ Three University of Virginia student-athletes who are interning in the Virginia Athletics Foundation office talk about the experiences they believe are preparing them for life af- ter college athletics. Aimee Chapdelaine is a fourth-year member of the softball team, Sadiq Olanrewaju is a third-year football player and Harry Gillespie is a second-year on the men's lacrosse team. Together they agree that many people and programs at the University are preparing them for their futures, more than they thought pos- sible after taking time to reflect. Aimee notes, "Some of my most important lessons and expe- riences have not come from the classroom, but from the professors after regular class hours. The relationships I have been able to build with a few of my teachers have shaped my career goals and interests. While I have learned a lot from class time about specific topics, I have learned more about humanity from small dis- cussions or emails that take place outside of the classroom. Each of my teachers at UVA has unique experiences and stories to share with students. Their willingness to share their knowledge has helped me build strong rela- tionships with them and other students. I have learned a lot from my professors and they have shaped me in many ways. I will always re- member them and carry certain parts of them with me." Regarding the resources made available by the athletics department, they note, "We re- ceive advice and training from the Athletics Academic Affairs staff, a sports psychologist, a nutritionist and the Life Skills program, but we all agree, our coaches, competition and intern- ships are providing us with the most training and preparation overall for the next stage of our lives. The athletics department and staff at the University of Virginia are preparing us to be successful, as individuals and members of the community." COACHES BY AIMEE CHAPDELAINE I had the opportunity to sit down with Harry and Sadiq to discuss their perspective on how coaches have prepared them for life after col- lege. We all agreed our coaches, undoubtedly, play key roles in our development and growth that we will carry with us as we move on to the next stage of our lives. Harry discussed his coach's influence on his lifestyle, stating, "Dom Starsia has particularly prepared me well for life beyond UVA by sharing his insights and emphasizing valuable lessons every day. For example, one small insight that has had an impact on me is the idea of waking up early for breakfast everyday. A simple lifestyle change, yes, but one that has increased my productiv- ity, kept me living a healthy lifestyle and has provided me with daily structure and routine." Sadiq describes his strength and condition- ing coach in a similar way. He stated, "Ryan PREPARING FOR LIFE AFTER COLLEGIATE ATHLETICS