DUDLEY, Mass. (3/1/2024) – As Black History Month comes to a close, and in conjunction with a month-long social media campaign, the Nichols Division of Athletics paid tribute to its black student-athletes through reflective pieces by members of its athletic programs. The campaign highlighted 10 of its student athletes answering the question of what being a black athlete and Black History Month means to them. Below are the quotes from those students.
Olivia Pedro | Softball
"As an athlete, black history month means many things. Having the opportunity to play a collegiate sport is something not a lot of people get to experience. In years past, there was racial inequality towards African Americans. Now, collegiate athletics is more inclusive than ever which shows the progress we have made as a society. Black History Month allows myself and my fellow athletes to understand the importance of equality in school and on the field."
Mason David | Football and Track
"As a student athlete, Black History Month represents an extraordinary experience for many Black athletes, including myself. It prompts a period of reflection on the significant contributions we have made to the world of sports and the influential impact we continue to have. Black History Month shows the relentless effort we've poured into not only entering the sporting arena but also in demonstrating our commitment. From the legendary Jesse Owens to Kenny Washington breaking barriers, and up to Angel Reese setting new milestones in today's sports landscape, their stories fuel our ambition to succeed and instill a sense of pride in our endeavors. The way we express our joy or express our emotions during competitions may be perceived differently compared to others, but it shouldn't detract from the fact that being an athlete of color is a source of immense pride, regardless of the setting on the field or off. Black History Month serves as a reminder of the journey Black athletes have undertaken to reach these heights and highlights the broader struggles against adversity faced by Black communities beyond sports. Remember, being a Black athlete is an honor."
Jabari Brewer | Esports
"Black history month to me a time to honor the pioneers that set the precedent that black people can play sports too. From Jackie Robinson to Mohamed Ali, black athletes have demonstrated resilience and remarkable talent. Their legacy inspires many no matter their skin color. whether an athlete or not black history month should remind of the importance of embracing diversity."
Patrick Henry | Football
"Black history means to me as a student athlete here at Nichols, the ability to represent and that no matter your background is, if you have dreams and goals press on and obtain them."
Tavon Jones | Men's Basketball
"Black history Month for me is a special month. It's a month where is African Americans can appreciate the greatness that we have built from many years ago. To me being an African American is a phrase a use which is Survive The Storm. Day in and day out it's a constant battle to try to find our place and to show everybody we belong. We wake up everyday trying to prove that African Americans can be just as good as in kind of race In the world. We as African Americans are the definition of STS."
Daniel Halliman | Men's Soccer
refocus. It's a month which allows me to see that I'm blessed to be in the position I am because there was once a time where black people were not welcome as students or in the world of sports. With the amount of sacrifice that was put
in to place me in this position today and just thinking about the amount of people who dreamed to be a student much less an athlete motivates me to give my best not only in the classroom but on the field in a sense to honor the efforts everyone black history month represents."
Mya Pina | Women's Lacrosse
Black History Month, for me as a student athlete, is a profound reminder of the extraordinary achievements and resilience of Black athletes throughout history. It's a time to honor the trailblazers who broke barriers and paved the way for your opportunities today. From Jackie Robinson to Wilma Rudolph, Black athletes have demonstrated remarkable talent and determination in the face of adversity. Their legacy inspires you to pursue your athletic dreams while also using your platform to advocate for equality and social justice. Whether you're on the field or in the classroom, Black History Month reminds you of the importance of embracing diversity, challenging stereotypes, and making a positive impact in your community."
Shawanna Wright | Cheer
"To me being a black athlete means working harder so I can be a part of the better statistics rather than the expected ones. It means that I need to allow myself to break past any limitations presented to go above and beyond the typical standards."
Sophia Venable | Field Hockey
"Being a person of color, Black History Month means a lot to me. It makes me appreciate the opportunity I have to be able to play sports. It makes me thankful for the ones who came before and had to fight for a chance to even play a team sport. Also, the ones who fought for equal opportunities for people of color to even play on a team. Black History Month also makes me reflect on the other black athletes out there still fighting to make a change and even making history."
Shaquanna Wright | Cheer
"Black history month is an essential time for minorities to celebrate all the accomplishments made within time. Getting the opportunity to represent black athletes is an opportunity that I am grateful for. As an athlete I get to look up to other black athletes that have represented us in amazing ways. Black history month is also a month that reminds me of my empowerment as a black student, athlete, and friend. Being able to represent those who have paved the way for me and the pavement, we as black athletes, continue to create for others, is astonishing."
As the formal month of celebration comes to a close Nichols Division of Athletics continues to celebrate diversity in its community and what motivates and inspires all its student-athletes.
