May 18, 1998
VILLANOVA, Pa. - On May 1-3, as Villanova University hosted the 1998 Big East Track and Field Championships for the 18th consecutive season, the Nike Fast Tracks Right Tracks Program also began a tradition as it kicked off its second straight year on the Main Line. Over 100 children, between the ages of 7-12 came to Villanova University to participate in Nike's program, aimed at exposing today's youth to a positive educational and athletic learning environment. The goal was to raise their awareness to the many opportunities available to them if they stay focused and motivated to study in the classroom and practice on the field.
"It was a great day to highlight the rich track history of Villanova and Nike. Emphasizing our partnership with Nike let us offer 100 inner city children a great day and a great learning experience," said Villanova's Corporate Account Manager for Nike Bruce Fletcher. "To offer a combination of track & field clinics and life workshops was a tremendous opportunity for everyone involved."
For most of the disadvantaged inner city Philadelphia Youths involved with this program, this was their first experience on a college campus. Members of the Philadelphia Futures, Youth Groups For Kids, Northern Home For Children and Villanova University Youth Group Organization participated in the program and received a unique experience combining track & field with "life skills" workshops in order to emphasize positive decision making and goal setting.
The day's programs were run by the Villanova CATS program (Community Action Through
Sports) and Sports Marketing representative Jason Eng. Fast Tracks Rights Tracks was represented and run specifically by five members of the CATS program, a group which included Wildcat basketball players Zeffy Penn, Jenea Skeeters and Shanette Lee, and Villanova football players Hezekiah Lewis and Jason Tenner.
"Having CATS participate and conducting a forum with five fine student-athletes was the
greatest part of the day," said Fletcher. "Having those student-athletes work hand-in-hand with the children was a rewarding and memorable experience."
Fast Tracks Right Tracks began with a track & field instruction session led by Villanova track & field athlete Brian Lucas. From there, the children participated in a panel discussion with five Wildcat student-athletes, who helped teach them about sound decision making and balancing their educational and athletic commitments.
The last portion of the program, the Hainy Critical Inference Test, began with the video
"Where I belong" showing an up close and personal view of the Villanova campus. The test ended with group discussions, where the children answered questions using their critical thinking, teamwork and leadership skills. The day wound down with a lunch at Villanova Stadium, where the children were able to experience first hand, the thrill and competition of the Big East Track & Field Championships.
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