“As a scrawny twelve-year-old in junior high school not knowing quite where “I fit in”, basketball became my safe haven. Under the leadership of my coach, I discovered my voice. I learned how to peacefully co-exist and thrive with other girls. I learned that I was stronger physically and mentally than I ever imagined. I learned that beautiful bodies come in all shapes and sizes and most importantly I learned to never quit; even when the odds seem impossible. The benefits of participating in organized sports in middle and high school also taught me to prioritize and work harder academically to skillfully balance the demands required of a student athlete. Little did I know that I would continue to reap the benefits of my “lessons from the court “throughout my life.”

Leticia Bryant SandersThe Power of the Playbook

“The quote for football equipment to start a ninth-grade team at the newly formed all-boys school in New Orleans was $57,000. Sports ruled the day in that city, and even though startup money was tight, not having sports was not an option. During my tenure as the principal at Miller McCoy a young man by the name of Willie Young received the first scholarship to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Willie was a great athlete, but had no aspirations of going to college or more importantly no confidence that he actually could. I’m glad I spent the $57,000.00 because Willie graduated from college as the all time leading receiver in the long history of the University and currently holds the record for the longest touchdown pass in a SWAC championship game. Willie was the first in his family to go to college and now his little brother is a junior at UAPB. What a return on a necessary investment!”

Keith SandersMoney Well Spent

“Most athletic programs are an integral part of the school culture and in some cases serve as a recruiting tool for prospective students. In fact, some students choose their respective schools based on the success of the athletic program, but there’s more. Students, who go from good to great athletes, put in work. They practice repeatedly until what they are doing becomes muscle memory. The same is true in the classroom.”

Dr. Newman C. Robertson, PrincipalEast T-STEM Academy High School