Central Michigan University Athletics
Summer Session Includes Life Lessons for CMU Basketball Team
8/28/2014 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. - For the Central Michigan men's basketball team, getting an education took on a new meaning over the summer.
In addition to continuing to learn in the classroom and on the court, the Chippewas had the opportunity to expand their knowledge through the teachings of a distinguished group of guest speakers.
"As a staff, we are focused on bringing in professionals who can share their real-life experiences with our student-athletes in order to aid in their overall educational development," said CMU head coach Keno Davis. "Our goal is to best prepare them not just on the court but for every day life."
One such presenter has strong ties to the University, Central Michigan alum Terry Foster, class of 1981. An acclaimed author, a famed Detroit News sports columnist and a popular radio talk show personality, Foster drew upon his years of experience in the media and sporting worlds to provide the team with advice and perspective.
Foster's core message focused on raising the players' awareness of their prominent place in the public eye and an understanding that, with success, comes increased pressure from outside forces.
"Each of the guys on the CMU basketball team, whether they realize it or not, are the Michael Jordans and the Kobe Bryants of the Mount Pleasant community," said Foster. "They have to be careful about what they do publicly and what they do online because every step is being viewed by others. You have to act accordingly and you always have to be cognizant that you are a public figure."
Foster spoke on social media interaction, providing insight on what to expect when engaged by both supporters and detractors. He also delved into the ever-changing mainstream media landscape, which has expanded beyond the scope of the newspaper writer or network television reporter. In the age of video-equipped smart phones and a seemingly endless assortment of social media platforms which help to fuel a 24-hour news cycle, anyone from your neighbor to the waitress at a local restaurant could be considered a media member.
"That's who you are dealing with now," said Foster. "A lot of the time, we get leads on stories after somebody has posted something (via social media). Anyone can be media. You really have to be careful."
For Davis, the visit by Foster was a highly effective one in that his messages definitely struck a chord with this team.
"I believe Terry's message was heard loud and clear by our players. The lessons he imparted will undoubtedly benefit them throughout the remainder of their playing and academic careers and beyond. We appreciate his willingness to visit campus and share his knowledge."
Central Michigan men's basketball is on Twitter. Follow head coach Keno Davis (@CoachKenoDavis) and the program's official Twitter account (@CMUMensBball) to get insider news and information and team updates. The Chippewas are also on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CMUMensBBall.
