The NCAA News - News and Features

The NCAA News -- March 15, 1999

Kentucky's 'Schoolhouse Rock' is a celebration of education

At the University of Kentucky, National Student-Athlete Day means "Schoolhouse Rock."

Memorial Coliseum at Kentucky was rocking last year with this academic pep rally for 2,178 fourth- and fifth-grade students from 16 nearby schools.

The rally showcased student-athletes and special guests Dermonti Dawson of the Pittsburgh Steelers and LaVonna Martin-Floreal, 1992 Olympic medalist in the 110-meter hurdles.

Dawson and Martin-Floreal gave advice on reaching goals, and they also discussed the importance of staying in school.

Also, student-athletes from seven of Kentucky's 22 teams -- football, men's and women's basketball, gymnastics, rifle, and swimming and diving -- performed skits dealing with the importance of education and having a positive attitude.

Holly Morris, host of WKTY's "Kentucky Sunrise," served as the master of ceremonies.

"It's always fun to come to Schoolhouse Rock and perform for the kids," said Kentucky football player Craig Yeast. "I'm glad to have the opportunity to come out and show my support for this event because these kids are our future. I think there is no better way to get them excited than to have a pep rally about staying in school."

Bob Bradley, associate director of athletics for student services at Kentucky, agreed. "There isn't anything better to prove to kids about the importance of education than to appeal to them with sports and athletes," Bradley said. "The coaches and teachers involved all agree that this is the single best thing we do all year in athletics."

This year's events at Kentucky will include the rally again, and they also will include a student-athlete day luncheon and the inaugural induction of new members to Kentucky's Society of Character.

The Society of Character, founded in 1998, is based on the CHAMPS/Life Skills five commitments to student-athletes: academics, athletics, personal development, career development and service. Each student-athlete candidate is nominated by a counselor, coach, trainer or manager and then is evaluated and chosen by a committee.

Also, public-service announcements written and performed by student-athletes will air on local radio and television stations throughout the week to promote academic success and violence prevention.

Finally, members of Kentucky's Americorps/Athletes in Service will be conducting seminars on conflict resolution and sportsmanship with local high-school students.