The privilege of being a student-athlete

Kirk Cousins was very instrumental in leading the Michigan State Spartans to one of their most successful seasons in years.  According to College Football Data Warehouse, MSU enjoyed an 11-2 record as co-champions of the Big Ten for 2010, their first conference championship since 1990.  With all of the changes taking place in the college football landscape including conference realignments and NCAA violations, the Big Ten conference chose an outstanding young man to speak on behalf of the student athletes at the Big Ten Media Day.

Cousins begins the speech by reflecting his own dreams and ambitions growing up outside of Chicago.  He comments on the opportunities to attend Northwestern games, Purdue football camps and being recruited by Michigan State.  His speech focused on the privilege of being a student athlete.

Being a student athlete brings lots of attention, regardless of the sport played.  Media, alumni, fans, students and the general population will always know what you are doing, especially in the instant information era of today.  He notes the privilege the Big Ten provides him with community service opportunities as well as playing at historic sites.  He humbly accepts the privilege of playing in front of fans who spend “hard-earned money” to watch him play. 

He also cautions that privilege does not lead to entitlement, but to greater responsibility.  He charges players to uphold the standards and namesake of their school, community, and their families as well.  He suggests the players discipline themselves, especially in current times, so that everyone who follows them “have good reason to say he’s one of ours.” This is interesting considering a member of the Big Ten is facing some of the harshest allegations of rules violations.  It is good to know there are student athletes who abide by the rules and are not ashamed to hold their fellow teammates and peers to the same task.  The words in this speech should be on the forefront of all student-athletes as they compete and represent their schools.