In Isaiah 43:2, it states, "When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not burn up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord your God."
At Hope College, we strive to embody this promise by ensuring that each student-athlete has a support system as they navigate their journey. Research shows that having five meaningful adult relationships can significantly shape the lives of students.
More than a decade ago,
Kyle Reason, football player, had a vision to help support injured student-athletes which became Team 43 led by volunteer chaplain Jerry Root. This group was established to support student-athletes who sustained season- or career-ending injuries, guiding them through difficult transitions. The success of this program led Hope to expand it, placing a mentor or ambassador in each athletic program. These mentors provide another layer of support for our student-athletes, helping them navigate the challenges of college life.
College life presents a variety of challenges for student-athletes, including:
- Academic Pressure: Balancing rigorous academic schedules with the demands of training and competitions can be overwhelming. Mentors are aware of the additional resources on campus and can help them connect to those various services.
- Athletic Demands: The physical and mental demands of college-level sports can be intense. Ambassadors offer guidance on maintaining physical health, dealing with injuries, and managing the pressures of competition.
- Personal Development: College is a critical time for personal growth and self-discovery. Mentors provide a sounding board for personal issues, helping students navigate identity, relationships, and life choices.
- Mental Health: The stress of balancing academics, athletics, and personal life can impact mental health. Ambassadors are trained to recognize signs of distress and can direct students to appropriate mental health resources.
- Transitions: Exploring career goals and planning for life after college is a crucial part of the college experience.
Ambassadors offer career advice, networking opportunities, and professional development guidance while linking students to extra resources available on campus.
Team 43 Ambassadors meet with student-athletes for breakfast, lunch, or coffee, fostering trusting relationships. They attend practices and games, becoming a unique support system for those who choose to connect with them. Last year alone, there were over 500 individual visits with mentors, many initiated by the student-athletes themselves, demonstrating the program's impact.
Hope Athletics is built upon three pillars: Academic Excellence, Competitive Excellence, and Transformational Experiences. To uphold these pillars, Hope is committed to fostering transformational experiences, and Team 43 is a vital part of this commitment. This program is truly changing the lives of our student-athletes every day.
Watch Team 43 stories.
To learn more about it and to get connected please contact Kevin Wolma at
wolma@hope.edu.
