The University of Memphis Athletic Department has installed a new program this year which consists of various projects to assist in improving the life skills of student athletes.
“It’s a new phase of the athletic department,” athletic media relations director Bob Winn said. “We’ve had it in place, but we’re revamping it under Trece Hayslett.”
Hayslett, a native of Memphis and former U of M athlete, became director of Tiger Power in September. Hayslett interned with a similar program at The University of Texas before being hired by The U of M. According to Winn, her leadership and experience will ensure a successful inception of the new program.
“She’s got some wonderful ideas,” Winn said.
According to Hayslett, as of this year the NCAA requires universities with student-athletes to have a life skills program in place.
“The NCAA realized that student-athletes make sacrifices to compete in athletics.” Hayslett said. “Most don’t have the opportunity to learn life skills like other college students.”
Hayslett said Tiger Power will consist of a variety of projects to benefit student-athletes, coaches and the community. It will cover these projects in a three-phased format.
Hayslett said the first phase will be educating Memphis’ student-athletes on the risks of alcohol and drugs. Each athlete will be required to attend one educational session on the subject per semester.
The second phase will consist of community service projects which will bring together athletes from many different U of M sports to contribute their time to community events. According to Hayslett, U of M athletes are anticipating a project which will help feed the homeless during the Thanksgiving holiday. Athletes will also join forces with the Memphis Urban League, helping teach computer skills to kids in struggling school systems.
“I think everyone is really concerned in our community about our education system,” Hayslett said.
Personal and professional development for student-athletes will serve as the third phase of Tiger Power. Hayslett said U of M athletes will gain knowledge in such subjects as resume-building, internships and proper etiquette.
According to Hayslett, support for athletes from Tiger Power will follow them after they leave The University.
“My job is to improve the quality of life for student-athletes and make their experience at The University of Memphis a good one,” Hayslett said. “Once a Tiger, always a Tiger.
“I want this to be a student-athlete program run by the student-athlete, for the student-athlete. No one knows their needs better than they do.”
