Athletics with Sam

Transcript

Okay, everyone, let’s meet up with Sam, a senior from Longview, Texas, majoring in biochemistry with minors in psychology, chemistry, and biology. Sam can’t wait to tell us about Patriot Athletics and the 17 NCAA Division II sports they have here at UT Tyler. Sam, take it away.

– Thanks for the intro, Alex. Hey, y’all. I first came to UT Tyler after committing to play softball at the collegiate level. Over the last four years, UT Tyler has become a second home for me. Patriot Athletics is part of the Lone Star Conference, one of the most competitive NCAA Division II conferences in the country, and it’s home to 17 teams, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, baseball, softball, golf, tennis, and track and field. As a senior on the softball team, I’ve had the opportunity to play in the World Series and even bring home a national championship. None of it could have been possible without the continual support from the university. Athletics is more than just a competition. It brings fans and students from all different backgrounds together. All of us as Patriot student athletes, love competing when we have a crowd of our fellow students cheering us on. For students who don’t compete at the varsity level or simply wanna join a fun club, there are vibrant intermural sports across our campus. From pickleball to soccer and everything in between, there is a group for you. We have awesome facilities and intramurals are a fun environment for everyone to be a part of. They’re also a great opportunity to learn teamwork and discipline. Plus, fostering school spirit will enrich your overall college experience. As a student athlete, I’ve experienced many ups and downs, but one of the biggest things I’ve learned is to not take the little moments for granted. It’s easy to enjoy the big moments like graduation, but soak in those moments like chanting with our mascot, Swoop, at games, making friendships and diversifying your boundaries. Those are truly priceless. Thank you, Alex, and talons up.

– Great job, Sam. Congrats on the national title, and thank you for sharing your experience as a student athlete. Whether it’s a Division II sport or an intramural team that plays on the weekend, anyone can get involved in UT Tyler’s athletics culture, Talons up, Patriots. that was awesome.