Athletes Inspire Students at Sports Hero Day

PROVO, Utah—BYU athletes welcomed more than 900 elementary school students to campus Thursday for the annual Sports Hero Day. Athletes from all of BYU’s sports teams contributed to the event making presentations, running activities and interacting with students.

Each sport was in charge of a rotation. Athletes talked to the students about leadership and goal setting, following their presentations with drills unique to their sports. The drills spanned from passing volleyballs with the volleyball teams to sit-ups and pushups with the football team.

“My favorite thing about Sports Hero Day is just playing with the kids,” said Futi Tavana, a member of the men’s volleyball team. “I do it every year. The kids are fun to be around and it’s a nice break from school and our regular activities.”

Volunteers showed the students around the Smith Fieldhouse and Richards Building while directing them to their many activities.

“Sports Hero Day is fun and a good way for us to interact with kids,” BYU soccer player Stacy Bartholomew said. “Some of us don’t get a lot of exposure to kids. I hope that Sports Hero Day gives them the understanding that you have to work hard to get things in life. I hope it gives them a head start to pursuing goals.”

Following the activities, the students gathered in the Fieldhouse for a presentation on sportsmanship by some of their BYU heroes. Quarterback Riley Nelson talked to the students about the importance of believing in themselves and being a good person. The athletes reiterated how the students will be faced with many decisions and that good choices bring great opportunities in the future.

Sports Hero Day is one of many opportunities throughout the year for BYU athletes to give back to the community.