Longhorn Leaders

Longhorn Leaders Spring 06!

2006-02-22T04:04:00.000-08:00

Longhorn Leaders Spring 06!

2006-02-22T04:03:00.000-08:00

Longhorn Leaders Spring 06!

2006-02-22T03:49:00.000-08:00

Nina's Call for a Perfect Season

2006-01-05T14:03:00.000-08:00

Well, Nina's wish came true. Go here to read about the Horns: Rose Bowl

The Perfect Season

2005-12-06T09:20:00.000-08:00

The University of Texas Football team has been absolutely sensational this year. They are the number 2 team in the nation, Big XII champs, and 12-0. They have trampled every opponent that has come their way and have done it with class. They have made it to the Rose Bowl held in Pasadena, Californina where they will play the number 1 team in the nation, USC Trojans. Both teams have Heisman Trophy and potential Trophy winners on thier teams, so we can expect a good matchup.

How did the Longhorns become so great this season? You cannot have a perfect season by just having persons like Vince Young and Brian Robinson on the team. In the past the Longhorns have had good teams, but I think this Longhorn team is by far the best. I'm not speaking of the individuals on the team becuase there are enough individual awards to go around. It takes team cohesiveness to have a great team. This past summer the Longhorns worked hard on their team chemistry as well as their skills. Vince worked with the wide recievers before practice to get their timing and conditioning levels up to par. These guys spent the whole summer working on being a team and it shows. This team is not only special for winning but for doing it as a team.

This longhorn team does not shine alone, they shine together. Team culture is the significant factor with the team this year. Cedric Benson, Derrek Johnson, Roy Williams, and several other talents were lost, but this years team is well on its way to being remembered as one of Texas's greatest teams. While extraordinary players are important nothing matches a great team. It would be big and the perfect ending to a great season if the Horns win the Rose Bowl, but it would be even bigger if they pass on the team culture to the team next year.

Texas is one of America's great universities. In sports we have achieved championships over the years in baseball, women's basketball, track, swimming, and more than 30 years ago in football. This year's football team with its pending national championship hopes help return to the tradition of championship football at Texas!

I am finishing my semester and working to get all of my finals and papers completed. My basketball team is building for the future and I am one of the seniors working to instill the winning team attitude for the heart of the season that has begun! I have a home game on Sunday and Wednesday and Conference play begins in January. Wish me luck and HOOK'EM HORNS!

Nina Norman

Nina's Leadership

2005-12-01T03:10:00.000-08:00

This semester, UT Senior Nina Norman, participates in the Leadership in the Community class that creates the Longhorn Leaders and writes this web log. Here is a story today about Nina and one of two very important basketball games coming in the next few days. The Lady Longhorns will play the Number Two, Tennessee and the Number One, Teams by this time next week. Nina will really have her number called!

Longhorns Women's Basketball: Big game? Longhorn guard is three-for-Tenn
Despite sore knee, Norman aims to continue her streak of success against Lady Vols.
By Olin Buchanan
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Thursday, December 01, 2005

When Texas travels to face Tennessee tonight, Longhorns senior guard Nina Norman might keep trainers on both benches busy.

Norman's sore knee has hobbled her this season, but during her previous three years, she's been an Achilles' heel for the Lady Volunteers.

As a freshman, Norman drilled a three-pointer with one second remaining to give Texas a 63-62 victory. As a sophomore, she hit 9 of 11 shots and scored 18 points as Texas prevailed in Knoxville, 70-60.

Last season she scored nine points and hit a game-clinching three-pointer with 3 1/2 minutes left, helping Texas to a 75-59 upset of the then-top-ranked Lady Vols.

Although Tennessee seems to bring out the best in Norman, she says it's just a coincidence.

"I just try to play hard every game," Norman said. "Tennessee's a big challenge and if you want to be the best, you've got to beat the best."

And Norman has been adept at helping Texas beat Tennessee, a fact that hasn't eluded the Lady Vols.

"She seems to play very well against us," said Tennessee coach Pat Summitt. "Obviously, the last game she played here, I thought she was terrific. I think she's the type of player that can create for other people as well as herself. She just gets everyone else involved."

The No. 16 Longhorns (3-1) have needed everyone involved; Norman and junior center Tiffany Jackson, Texas' top two players, have been slowed by injuries.

An ankle sprain has limited Jackson, but Norman's left knee problems are more serious.

Similar knee problems hampered her last year, when her scoring average fell to 7.8 from 9.5 her sophomore season, and her shooting percentage dropped to 38 percent from 40.4 percent.

Norman only played 11 minutes in Texas' season-opening loss to New Mexico and was on the court for just six minutes in an 83-33 victory over Sam Houston.

But in last weekend's Junkanoo Jam in the Bahamas, she played 24 minutes and scored 13 points in a 59-55 victory over South Carolina, and had five points in 28 minutes in a 59-54 triumph over George Washington.

"Nina knows we depend on her, and she'll be ready to play," said Texas coach Jody Conradt.

The Longhorns need Norman to score, but perhaps more than anything else, they have come to depend on her for leadership and a steadying hand. With seven freshmen on the roster, the Longhorns have been predictably inconsistent.

Norman can supply a calming influence and help the younger players know what to expect.

And she said Texas' freshmen will experience something very different when they play at Thompson-Boling Arena.

"They're going to realize how hard college basketball is," Norman said. "The other games were against average teams, but (Tennessee) is like the No. 1 team in the country."

Well, the No. 2 Lady Vols (5-0) are close enough for discomfort.

Tennessee already has posted convincing victories over No. 9 Maryland and No. 13 Michigan State. That's why the Longhorns, who are monitoring Norman's minutes, need her on the floor as much as possible.

"I'm feeling better and I'm doing the best I can," Norman said. "The trainers are working with my body to make sure I can handle an entire season. Hopefully, I'll play a lot, but everybody's got to get their minutes."

Count on Norman to be in the game in the final minutes.

The Day In The Life of A Longhorn Athlete

2005-11-29T08:08:00.000-08:00

I know some of you are wondering how the day in the life of a longhorn athlete really is. Well, let me tell me you that it is not easy at all. Some sports are different than others, but we mostly do the same things. We wake up at 5:30 in the morning and eat some breakfast. After we eat we rush over to the weight room for weights from about 6:00 to 7:30. After we finish weights we take a shower, if we are lucky and make it to class from 8-12. Then after the 12:00 we go to the training table to get lunch. The training table is a place where all the student athletes get their lunches. The next thing we have to go to is practice. Pratice ranges from 2 to 4 hours. After an exhausting practice we go to study hall for 2 hours. Here at study hall we meet with tutors to stay up with our school work. This is especially important as many of us travel during the week and may miss some classes. Study hall ends and we finally get a chance to go home, but we cannot relax yet. We still have to study for our classes becuase two hours is not enough time. You are supposed to study 3 hours for every class you have. That means if you are taking 15 hours, you will need to study 45! Then after you study at home you get the rest of the night to yourself, which is not a lot of time. I usually get done studying around 10:00 or 11:00p.m.

But there are some good sides of being an athlete. We get to travel all over the world. I have been to Hawaii, Canada, and Bahamas, since I've been here at UT. For the Thanksgiving break the team went to the Bahamas for 5 days. We had a great time there and the place was beautiful. However, we did miss some class, but we had to take our work with us. Even though it was a nice vacation, we still had to get our studies done while we are up there. A couple of my teammates had to take a test on the road. It is hard on the road because you not only have to play, but to do your school work. The men's basketball team will be traveling to New York to play the number one team in the nation, Duke Bluedevils. They get to play at Madison Square Garden. Not to many people have that chance to play there, but the guys do. Being a longhorn is great, but it does take hard work and dedication. Just remember that the word "student" comes before student-athlete.

The Bash of the Year

2005-11-03T07:24:00.000-08:00

Hello again. This is Nina Norman and here is the uniform I wear that most people know but I am here to give you the scoop on the Women's Basketball Halloween party. I know some of you think that Halloween is just for kids, but it is for adults too. We have this party every year, but this year was very special because we all had great costumes. I was Napoleon Dynamite from the movie Napoleon Dynamite. CoCo Reed was the Scream character from the motion picture Scream and Tiffany Jackson was a playboy bunny. Crystal Boyd was Madea from the movie Diary of a Mad Black Woman and Katrina Robinson was Michael Myers from the movie Halloween. Ernie Williams and Ahley Lindsey were clowns and Erniesha Bailey and Carla Cortijo were tourists. Mariana Mergerson was a vampire and Erika Arriaran was Elvis. Aubry Cook was a Go-Go girl and Kalee Carey was a cop. Daria Mieloszynska was Lara Croft from the video game and movie Tomb Raider and Tamra Cobbins was Pebbles from The Flinstones.

Cick here to view the photos.

The Kilgore Dinner

2005-10-27T07:59:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

This is Nina Norman and I wanted to share my experience that I had at a dinner last week.

Last Thursday night, I attended the Kilgore dinner (an annual event of the Greater Austin Crime Commission) with Professor Lauderdale along with two other athletes, Limas Sweed and Kasey Studdard. This dinner was a presentation to the winner of the Kilgore award. The award went to the United States Ambassador to Mexico, Tony Garza. The dinnner was very interesting because they talked about Crime Prevention and what was going on with the ties of Texas and Mexico. The ambassador was doing all he could to stop drug distribtion in Mexico. I had no idea that any of these things was going on. It seems our Longhorn Leaders' efforts are part of a very large activity to tackle some very serious things.

It was $250 a plate and $2,500 a table. The food was good but not that good as most of the money goes to support programs of the Greater Austin Crime Commission including our Longhorn Leaders. I was seated at a table with two very prestigious people and they were Admiral Bob Inman and Chancellor William Cunningham. Mr. Inman was a UT graduate, in the Navy and headed important national security agencies. Dr. Cunningham gave an excellent speech and he and I talked about women's basketball. He told me that he was a big fan and came to every women's home game. Dr. Cunningham has held many posts at the University of Texas including Dean, President and Chancellor. He is a professor here as well as his wife, who was at our table as well.

There were over two hundred people there and I met many of them including Mr. Ligarde and Mr. Roberts that work with our presentations as well as Mayor Butler, the President of the Crime Commission. I signed my player cards and gave them to people to illustrate a part of our work with youth. I think Kasey and Limas like me saw another large part of our efforts!

The Music Man

2005-10-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

Adair Fragoso is a junior that plays football for the University of Texas. He is from El Paso, TX and is majoring in Music. His love for music began when he was in the fourth grade. In the fourth grade he started out playing the saxophone. Later, as a freshman in high school, he joined the choir and discovered his love for singing. Now that he is older, he enjoys playing the piano, singing, and rapping. He took up the piano when he first came to the Texas.

Adair loves to listen to all sorts of music like hip-hop, R&B, Spanish, and reggae tone. But his favorite kind of music is hip-hop and R&B. After he finishes here at UT, he has aspirations of becoming an artist and owning his own music label as well. At school, he has learned how to make beats on his keyboard and computer, and is now learning how to blend them with his singing and rapping abilities.

Adair sets a strong pace of academic achievement and dedication to whatever he does. You can listening to one of his songs by going to this address: Whatcha Gonna Do

Q & A With Selvin Young

2005-09-29T06:20:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. I am Nina Norman and I wanted to get Selvin Young's viewpoints on gangs and the kids today. Selvin has been through so much in his life and I believe that he can give some great advice for troubled kids out there.

Q: What is your take on gangs?

A: I believe that gangs are lame. There is another side of life that's out there.
Everyone has an opportunity to change their life, some get different opportunities than others. Don't think that the cards you were dealt is the hand you have to keep. I just believe that the thought of gangs are irrelevant and not a smart idea.

Q: Have you ever been part of a gang?

A: Yes, I have been part of a gang, but I realized that was the biggest mistake
of my life. I was hurting my family and the people that cared for me the most. I was not being real to myself because I know in my heart that I am no killer or a thief.

Q: Why do you think kids join gangs?

A: I believe young people are pulled into gangs due to lack of attention from the people that kids care for the most. Other reasons are rebellion from an over protective parent. My reason was because I was looking for a family and that was something I did not feel growing up early on.

Q: Where are your friends that was in the gang today?

A: Four of them have life in prison for premeditated murder. One guy is also
playing college football like me. He plays free safety for the University of
Arizona. The other three are dead, one committed suicide and the other two were killed in a gambling shack over a dice game. It is a very sad story except for two of us.

Q: Can you tell me the story that changed your life?

A: I took summer school one year and I happened to be first person there. On the board in the classroom there was a quote. As the janitor was about to erase the board, I read it. It said, "People may doubt what you say, but they believe what you do." I believe that moment changed my life. My grandmother dropped me off at school that day and before I got out the car she said to me I do not want you to be like your mother, father, or brother. I promised her that I never will and till this day I've held up to my word. People have to believe what you do. It's not what you say, it's what you do, that makes all the difference in the world.

Selvin is one of the Longhorn Leaders that has a great deal of experience with hardships that life can bring. He knows directly the danger of drugs, gangs and school failure. He has returned to school this fall having recovered from a devasting injury in the Arkansas game in September of 2004. Gradually his form in football is returning as he steps into a role as one of the mature leaders for the team and for the Longhorn Leaders Program. He is part of the secret to a winning team and to overcoming barriers to success for every youth.

Courtney MacIntosh From Canada to Texas

2005-09-23T07:09:00.000-07:00

Rowing is a difficult sport to master, but not for the senior, Courtney MacIntosh. Rowing consists of eight people in a boat with a coxswain. The coxswain steers the boat and tells the eight people what to do. Courtney's position is the port and there are four people on the portside. The other four people are on the starboard. A typical race is 2,000 meters, which takes about seven minutes. But enough about rowing, let's talk about Courtney. She grew up in beautiful Ontario, Canada, but why did she come all the way from Canada to Texas. She chose to come to the University of Texas because of its prestigious athletic and academic programs. Prior to coming to Texas Courtney lived in Newfoundland, which had a population of about 100,000. She is a big fan of rugby, which is very popular there. She is a Kinesiology major and is going graduating in May of 2006. She also has the desire to go back to Canada and enroll in law school at the University of Victoria. While she is in Canada, she plans on training for the Canadian National Rowing Team.

Which Class Member Is This And What Happened For Him This Week?

2005-09-16T17:34:00.000-07:00

Your 2005 Leadership Class

2005-09-15T07:10:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again folks! The final roster for this year's Fall 2005 Longhorn Leaders have arrived. We are very excited for this up and coming year. My name is Nina Norman and I play basketball here at UT. I will be helping run this website and giving you guys updates about what's going on. There are 25 student athletes in the class and they are all ready to introduce themselves. Let's kick it off with LaMarcus Aldridge. He plays for the basketball team and he stands at a whopping height of 6 feet 10 inches. He injured his hip last year and was forced to sit out, but in his spare time he loves to take naps. Thomas Marshall is a member of the football team and in his leasure time he likes to play basketball and hang out with his friends. Courtney MacIntosh is a rower and she takes full advantage of the Austin weather by swimming outside on those gorgeous days. Daniel Gibson plays on the basketball team and he enjoys spending time with his family because they are his heart which inspires him.

Tarell Brown plays on the Rose Bowl Champion football team and he gets a kick out of cooking and playing video games. Rashad Bobino is another member of the football team and he plays the drums. Myron Hardy plays football and he likes to freestyle rap and his favorite actor is Dave Chapelle. Jerrell Wilkerson is also a football player and finished high school just last year in San Antonio. Adrain Alaniz is a part of the National Chanpionship Baseball team and he is making sure that his team is ready because now everyone is waiting to beat the defending champs. Having come of a redshirt freshman year is sophmore catcher and all around baseball player, Todd Gilfillan. Craig Winder plays basketball and he is a transfer from Cecil. Although Craig looks serious, he has an amazing gift of making everone laugh. Selvin Young plays football and he was withheld from competition last year because he broke his ankle. Now he is back and healthy and ready to help Texas have an outstanding year. Bethany Howden is a former volleyball player. She had a great career here at UT and interns at the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Kaelen Jakes is a member of the football team and he never misses an eposide of Seinfeld.

Another player on the football team is Billy Pittman and his favorite movie is Thirteen Ghost. P.J. Tucker is a tenacious power foward for the basketball team and he loves to work with kids. Ryan Palmer plays for the football team and his favorite actress is Sanaa Lathan. Mike Williams plays for the basketball team and his favorite player in the NBA is Amare Stoudamire because he is so explosive. George Walker plays football and in his own privacy he enjoys singing. Limas Sweed plays football too and when he has spare time, he likes to sit in his room and listen to music. Dion Dowell plays basketball and he grew up in Germany. Ramonce Taylor is a member of the football team and he loves to play video games. Adair Fragoso plays football for the Longhorns and when he was younger he used to throw the discus. These athletes are ready to get started to come and spend time with the kids at Bedichek.

Getting To Know Nina Norman

2005-09-13T07:18:00.000-07:00

This is a shot of me playing against Oral Roberts in the First Round of the NCAA Tournament. I bet you are wondering what is on the hand that I am dribbling with. I had broken my hand a week before the game and I taped it to play in the game. The tape allowed me to play through the pain. Now let me tell you all about me. I play point guard for the Lady Longhorns and I'm a senior. I am a Corporate Communication major with a Business minor. In my spare time I love to cook and watch tv. Right now my favorite shows are the 4400 and the O.C. My assignment for Dr. Lauderdale's class includes developing the web log for this semester. We are all excited about the class and looking forward to our first visit in early October to Bedichek Middle School, our school partner in the class.

Longhorn Leader Aaron Ross Prepares for the Fall

2005-07-24T14:52:00.000-07:00

We will catch up on some Longhorn Leaders from past semesters. Aaron Ross prepares for his junior year seeking to extend beyond the accomplishments of last year.

2005-07-24T14:36:00.000-07:00

Longhorns achieved championships in many areas and one of the most prominent was baseball.

Fall 2005 Longhorn Leaders Class

2005-07-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

The fourth Longhorn Leaders Class will be held in cooperation with Bedichek Middle School. Class members are being selected and an opportunity to meet the members will be set in late August or early September. The Greater Austin Crime Commission provides information about our joint effort.

Front and Center in the National Spotlight

2005-01-02T06:34:00.000-08:00

The University of Texas at Austin emphasizes leadership and committment to the community. Varsity athletics are among the University's most publicly visible activities and individual and team success are greatly acclaimed. On Saturday January 1, the football team and twenty eight members who serve as Longhorn Leaders brought the national spotlight to Texas. Working with youth and police officers at Pearce, Martin, Webb, Bedichek and Lamar Middle Schools was part of the team's leadership development and helped instill for those youngsters a sense of personal achievement through teamwork. The links below illustrate the level of acclaim this afternoon of effort brings to all:
The Past Season
USAToday
At The Rose

Students Visit Campus

2004-12-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

On December 6th, seventh grade students from Lamar Middle School and Bedichek Middle School visited campus for their final Longhorn Leaders event. Students had a pizza and coke lunch provided by the athletic department. The students were then presented with a Longhorns t-shirt and other paraphernalia. The Bedichek students presented the Longhorn Leaders with flowers, cards and a book of essays explaining the impact that the program had had on them. To finish the semester, the Longhorn Leaders led the middle school students on a tour of the athletic facilities.

Last Visit to Lamar

2004-12-01T06:48:00.000-08:00

On November 29th, the Longhorn Leaders made their third and final visit to Lamar Middle School. The student athletes sat with the seventh graders as Stevie Lee, Kelly Wilson, Kasey Studdard, Bobby Tatum and others shared their thoughts reflecting on the semester. Topics including alcoholism, eating disorders and consequences were explored. The Lamar students will visit the University of Texas campus on December 6th, as their last function of the semester with the Longhorn Leaders.

Third Lamar Visit and University Visit

2004-11-29T07:45:00.000-08:00

November 29th is our third visit to Lamar Middle School. We will conduct our presentations and help the 7th graders get prepared to visit our campus next Monday. Here are some campus photos to illustrate the coming visit:

2004-11-26T08:21:00.000-08:00

Marco Martin, Tyrell Gatewood, Aaron Ross and Tim Crowder talking about Media Day at Bedichek

2004-11-26T08:19:00.000-08:00

Cedric Griffin in the classroom

Final Visit to Bedichek

2004-11-16T06:35:00.000-08:00

The Longhorn Leaders made their third and final visit to Bedichek Middle School on November 15th. The student athletes sat with the seventh grade students as Sanya Richards, Stevie Lee and Derek Lewis gave short reprises of their previous presentations. Bedichek students were then given the opportunity to ask questions and make comments on what the Longhorn Leaders program has meant to them. Students commented on their renewed sense of self-confidence and motivation to not give up. The Leaders are scheduled to meet with the students from Bedichek one more time on the UT campus.

Longhorn Leaders Secure National Visibility

2004-11-14T08:20:00.000-08:00

This is a busy time for Texas students as the end of the semester approaches with final exams and heightened activity in many collegiate competitions. One of the tests of leadership is carefully selecting goals and then staying on focus. Evident achievement of such leadership skills characterizes the Longhorn Leaders.

Kelly Wilson continues to blaze a trail for Texas as the Longhorns earn their season record eighth shutout in the school's first NCAA postseason victory ever. Kelly's consistent play has made her a leader on the soccer team and for our class. Basketball competition for women gets underway this weekend as the State Farm Classic kicks off. Annissa Hastings and Jody Bell of the Longhorn Leaders class of Fall 03 are featured as well as Coco Reed of the Fall 04 class. Annissa tore her achilles tendon early last fall but has overcome that injury and disappointment and the Lady Longhorns start the season as the Number 2 ranked team in the nation!

Football achieves national visibility for Texas this fall as the team won in a "come from behind" victory over Kansas yesterday on national television. Featuring prominently in the game were Longhorn Leaders, Tony Jeffery, Fall 03 and Vincent Young, Spring 04 with plays and spirit that simply show "no quitting!" Young scored on an 18-yard touchdown run to reduce the deficit to three. Then on the game-winning drive, he scrambled for 22 yards and a crucial first down on a fourth-and-18. Four plays later, he threaded a perfect pass off a rollout to Tony Jeffery. And the game still had 11 seconds to go.

"A lot of guys," Jeffery said, "did a lot of great things."

High goals, consistent effort and strong teamwork are important aspects of leadership!

Second Visit to Lamar Middle School

2004-11-02T06:20:00.000-08:00

On November 1, the Longhorn Leaders made their second visit to Lamar Middle School. Sanya Richards, Aaron Ross, Erick Jackson, Aaron Harris, Rodrique Wright and Albert Hardy presented on issues that they remembered from being in the 7th grade. Highlighted issues ranged from teen pregnancy to poverty to respect. The Lamar students were then able to ask the Leaders their own questions. Photos from the visit are posted below. Photos were taken and provided by Antwaun Hobbs.

Rodrique Wright answers a student's question

2004-11-02T05:43:00.002-08:00

Lamar

Albert Hardy Presents at Lamar

2004-11-02T05:43:00.001-08:00

Lamar

Amanda, LaTashia, Sanya, and Kelly answer questions

2004-11-02T05:43:00.000-08:00

Lamar

Araon Harris Presents and answers questions

2004-11-02T05:42:00.002-08:00

Lamar

Rodrique Wright presenting

2004-11-02T05:42:00.001-08:00

Lamar

2004-11-02T05:42:00.000-08:00

Lamar

Bobby Tatum answers questions

2004-11-02T05:41:00.000-08:00

Lamar

2004-11-02T05:40:00.001-08:00

Erick Jackson at Lamar

2004-11-02T05:40:00.000-08:00

Aaron answer a question about keeping his grades up.

2004-11-02T05:39:00.000-08:00

Aaron Ross talks about roles on and off the field.

2004-11-02T05:37:00.000-08:00

Shot of some UT fans at Lamar

2004-11-02T05:35:00.000-08:00

Derek Lewis responding to a Lamar student question.

Seated students are Kasey Studdard, Bobby Tatum, Cedric Griffin, standing to the right of Derek is Juan Villa from AISD, Brad Price, Albert Hardy, Sanaya Richards, LaTashia Kerr, and Tyrell Gatewood.

2004-10-27T07:30:00.000-07:00

LaTashia Kerr thoughtfully speaks

2004-10-27T07:29:00.000-07:00

Sanya answers a question

2004-10-27T07:26:00.000-07:00

Sanya Richards Presents

2004-10-27T07:24:00.000-07:00

Kasey Studdard presents

2004-10-27T07:20:00.000-07:00

Albert Hardy presents

2004-10-27T07:19:00.000-07:00

Albert Hardy responds

2004-10-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

Police answering

2004-10-27T07:15:00.000-07:00

Bobby Tatum

2004-10-27T07:14:00.000-07:00

Bedichek

Second Bedichek Visit

2004-10-27T06:22:00.000-07:00

On October 25th, the Longhorn Leaders made their second visit to Bedichek Middle School. Bobby Tatum, Stevie Lee, Tim Crowder, Erick Jackson, Andra Manson and Marco Martin presented issues including determination, believing in yourself and planning for the future. The students were then given the opportunity to have their own questions answered by the Longhorn Leaders. They are scheduled to make one more visit to Bedichek this semester.

Kelly Continues Her Winning Ways!

2004-10-25T08:11:00.000-07:00

AUSTIN, Texas – Senior Kelly Wilson (Odessa, Texas) slipped a low shot past Kansas goalkeeper Megan Miller with 1:59 remaining in double overtime to lift Texas (11-5-1, 6-3-1) to a 1-0 victory over No. 6 Kansas (15-3, 7-2 Big 12) on Sunday, Oct. 24 in front of 1,046 fans at Myers Stadium on Sunday, Oct. 24.

Wilson collected a through ball from Carrie Schmit (La Mesa, Calif.) at midfield and fought off three Jayhawks before pushing a low shot to the right past Miller for her second game-winning overtime goal in as many contests. With the victory, Texas earned its first win over a Top-10 team in 2004 while notching its third straight shutout to extend its home winning streak to a school-record 10 games, while KU lost for the first time in the last eight contests.

Aaron's 2 Minute Drill

2004-10-24T11:59:00.000-07:00

Two-Minute Drill: Aaron Ross
Sophomore cornerback Aaron Ross is going to be counted on to play a lot of snaps. He's already made 25 tackles in part-time duty and his interception towards the end of the first half against Missouri helped swing the momentum back in the Longhorns' favor. Aaron made his first presentation at Bedichek and will present at Lamar on November 1.

Kasey's 2 Minute Drill

2004-10-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Our Longhorn Leaders have to be prepared for many tasks:

10/19/04

Two-Minute Drill: Kasey Studdard
By Jeremy Sharpe, Media Relations Assistant

» Two-Minute Drill archives

As one of the main cogs in the nation's second-rated rushing offense, sophomore Kasey Studdard has made his presence felt. His grit and tenacity is recognized not only by the opposition, but by the players on his own team. After taking control of the left guard position in the spring, the 6-3, 290-pounder out of Lone Tree, Colo., has started every game this season and has no plans to relinquish that spot. He took a break from his preparations to run the Two-Minute Drill with MackBrown-TexasFootball.com.

On what he's been told about playing in Lubbock:
I know the turf is really hard and the crowd is loud throughout the whole game. It doesn't matter if you are winning or losing, you can't hear anything. The fans are crazy and I've been told it is one of the loudest places to play.

On communicating in a loud environment:
You hear what we are doing in the huddle so the noise doesn't affect us too much. When we are coming to the line, we just pay attention to what Jason (Glynn) is calling out and that is what we need to know to execute. When it comes time for the snap, we just listen for Vince and key on the ball. When it gets real loud, I'll tell Jonathan (Scott) to look in towards the ball and he'll just key on the snap.

On the offense's job against Texas Tech:
We need to go down the field and score every time we have the ball. They can put up points really quick, so we need to make sure we score on every possession. We also need to make sure we give our defense a rest so when they are on the field, they can get after it.

On the defense:
They have been getting better every week and they are doing a great job. You can see it on the field. Our team is like a brotherhood and we want to back them up, just like they have been backing us up so far.

On the offense:
We know we can run the ball. We just have to go out there and do it. We've struggled a little bit, but we're comfortable in what we are doing and we're confident that we can do it.

Visit to Lamar Middle School

2004-10-20T21:34:00.000-07:00

On October 18th, the Longhorn Leaders made their first visit to Lamar Middle School. About thirty-five 7th graders listened intently while Brad Price, Kelly Wilson, La Tashia Kerr, Bobby Tatum, Antwaun Hobbs and Tyrell Gatewood presented. Many of the students recognized the Longhorn Leaders from TV, newspapers and other types of media. The excitement and amazement of actually being in the same room with these athletes led the students to pay close attention to the issues that were being presented. The Longhorn Leader presenters discussed issues concerning popularity, values, poverty, crime, drugs and more. They are scheduled to present two more times at Lamar Middle School.

Photos from Lamar

2004-10-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

Brad Price presenting
Brad Price wowed the class with his talk about how many extracurricular activities there are at Lamar and the importance of getting involved in them!

2004-10-20T06:28:00.000-07:00

Longhorn Leaders' First Visit to Lamar Middle School

2004-10-20T05:32:00.000-07:00

Longhorn Leaders Make First Visit to Lamar Middle School on Monday, October 18, 2004

Derek Lewis

2004-10-08T07:35:00.000-07:00

Derek Lewis
On October 25 and 26 Derek will travel with Dave Martin, Executive Director of the Austin Boys and Girls Clubs and Senior Officer Jim Hinton of the Austin Police Department to the U. S. Justice Department's Law Enforcement and Youth Partnerships for Crime Prevention in Pittsburgh, PA. Derek will represent the Greater Austin Crime Commission and the Longhorn Leaders.

First Visit to Bedichek

2004-10-07T08:14:00.000-07:00

On October 4th, the Longhorn Leaders made their first visit to Bedichek Middle School. Sanya Richards, Aaron Ross, Coco Reed, Brad Price and La Tashia Kerr presented to more than 50 seventh grade students. Issues about college, sports, inspirations, money and determination were all discussed. The middle school students were enthralled with the presence of the UT athletes. Taking advantage of that, the Longhorn Leaders were able to share their thoughts on important issues surrounding decisions that seventh graders are making today.

Kelly Wilson In The Record Books Again

2004-10-06T05:54:00.000-07:00

Kelly Wilson earned yet another spot on top of the Longhorn record books.

After passing teammate Kelly McDonald for the all-time lead in points scored earlier this season, Wilson moved by former teammate Kati McBain for the lead in assists. Wilson assisted the first Longhorn goal against Oklahoma State on Sunday and then dished out another for the third goal. Even though she doesn't believe her record will last long, Wilson is thankful for where she is right now.

"It's an honor in itself to be in the books with Kati," Wilson said. "She was such a great player, and one that I looked up to when I first got here."

A Trip to Portland, Oregon

2004-09-29T08:49:00.000-07:00

Kelly Wilson is a forward for the Longhorn soccer team. She recently travelled to Portland, Oregon to play the #6 team in the nation, the University of Portland. This is her account of the trip:

"I was extremely excited to go to Portland, Oregon. I had never been there before, and I had heard that it is absolutely beautiful. My teammate and friend Karen Height was born and raised there, so she was excited to go back home and see her family. The flight there took about four hours. This gave me a lot of time to catch up on some class work that I would be missing while I was gone. Upon arriving in Portland, the first thing I noticed was the weather. It was freezing. Ok, maybe not freezing, but it was definitely colder than the Austin heat and humidity. We stayed in a hotel right in the heart of downtown Portland. We were surrounded by cool shops and beautiful buildings. However, we didn’t get to spend a lot of time shopping because we were focusing for our game against University of Portland. On the day of the game, we spent a lot of time relaxing in our hotel rooms preparing our bodies and minds for the game. We got to visit Portland’s athletic and academic facilities, which were beautiful. They don’t have a football team at their university so soccer is their “football.” We ended up losing a tight game to Portland 3-1 in front of a sell-out crowd. After the game, we caught a flight home back to Austin. It was a short trip, but well worth it."

UT Leadership Recognition

2004-09-25T06:40:00.000-07:00

Leadership means striving for achievement, often, in many areas. UT recognized in September two of our Longhorn Leaders, Fall 2004, Senior Kelly Wilson and Fall 2003, Senior Derrick Johnson. Click on Longhorn Leaders to read more about their achievements.

Colencia "CoCo" Reed

2004-09-23T16:04:00.000-07:00

My full name is Colencia Roshay Reed but most of my friends call me CoCo. I was born in a small town called Center(Texas) but I grew up in Houston. I'm currently a junior majoring in sports management and I also play guard on the UT basketball team. I am a major sports fan, my favorite sports are basketball, football, and baseball. In my off time I like to watch tv, shop, and talk on the phone to my friends.
Interview by L1

Being A Leader With Youth

2004-09-23T06:37:00.000-07:00

One aspect of the course is providing answers to youngsters about making good decisions in life. The Longhorn Leaders work with 7th grade youth that are passing from childhood to adolescence and starting to face adult roles. During the last three semesters, the Leaders have encountered a number of repetitive questions. We are starting to pose some of these questions to the Fall 2004 class and here are some of their answers:

Q:
Dear Longhorn Leaders,
Everyday I see girls at school that have really nice clothes and I want to look like them. They have a lot of friends. But, I don't have the money to buy those things. Does it matter in college if you have those kinds of clothes?
7th grade girl

A:
You don't have to have the types of clothes the popular or cool people wear. Even in college a lot of people just simply wear jeans and t-shirts. It's not a matter or what you wear; it’s a matter of who you are. You want to choose a path in life that will allow you to succeed, and the clothing you wear has no part in that. Make sure the people are you surrounding yourself with are those who believe similar ideas that you do, and will make good choices.
Answer by Cat Osterman

Q:
Dear Longhorn Leaders,
My parents are getting a divorce and I am sad about that. I think I will quit school as I will miss my Dad. Can you help me?

A:
I think you should first off just try to think positive and that's what I always try to do is think positive and keep my head up. Always look on the bright side of things and look at it this way and think that it can be a lot worse. Just think how it can be worse and that will make you think of it as a positive. Think that you will still be able to see your dad and he will always love you. This will make your relationship even stronger with your dad because you will appreciate him more and he will appreciate you more because not seeing him that much. Just keep your head up and be strong because someone else your age in this world is going through something tougher than you.
Answer by Tim Crowder

Q:
Dear Longhorn Leaders,
Do grades matter? I am tired of homework. It is too hard and I don't have anybody at home to help me. Did you have to do homework? What should I do?
7th grade boy

Grades do matter and homework is very important. If you don't have someone at home that can help you with your homework you should ask a teacher to help you before or after school. Yes, I had to do homework and I still have to do homework. Continue to work hard in school and do your homework to the best of your ability.
Answer by Bobby Tatum

Q:
Dear Longhorn Leaders,
I have had a boyfriend since the 6th grade. He keeps asking me to have sex. I think I am ready now. I know that I could get pregnant, but my mom had me when she was young...so I think I could handle it. What do you think?
7th grade girl

A:
Well, my mom had my brother and me at a very young age. Everything was fine when we were younger but as the years went on it became a huge struggle to be able to raise us. She had to put things on hold for herself, things she likes to do. There was no more going out with the girls after practice, on the weekends, or after the meets. She couldn't go to the mall and just spend money on herself, the money my grandmother gave her had to go towards us. She had to give up her love, which was track, to get a job so she could provide for us. So think about that and ask yourself if you want to give up your free time and things you love to do just to have sex and get pregnant.
Answer by Aaron Ross

Dear Longhorn Leaders,
My brother is in the 8th grade and starting to hang out with some guys called the Tejas Crips. They are a gang and I am afraid my brother will get in trouble. Should I tell my parents? I don't know what to do.
7th grade girl

A:
In that situation I would definitely tell my parents because I care to much about my siblings to let something bad happen to them. Gangs are very serious and are nothing to play around with. Your brother could end up getting hurt or going to jail. If you really care a bout him then you should tell your parents so they can do somethng about it. Your brother will be mad at you but he will eventually get over it. Just explain to him that you did it because you were worried about hm and didnt want anything bad to happen to him. Once he sees your concern for him he will understand.
Answer by Coco Reed

Q:
Dear Longhorn Leaders,
There is a high school boy that keeps calling me. I think that he just likes me because he has heard that I am not a virgin. I had sex once before, but I don't want to do it again. What do you think I should do?
7th grade girl

A:
If you actually like the guy and you want to know if he really likes you for you, I would suggest that you give him a chance without putting yourself in a situation that might lead to sex. I would always go out with a group of people and when you talk to him on the phone, stay as far away from the topic as possible. If he brings it up or tries to always get you alone then I would think that he only wants sex, but do not allow him make you give in. Stick to your commitment. Be strong!
Answer by Sanya Richards

Q:
Dear Longhorn Leaders,
I hate school. I don’t have any friends. They all look different than me and have better things than I do. I want to move away. Did you ever feel like that?
7th grade boy

A:
Dear Student,
I can definitely relate to these feelings. I hate school, too. But I know that later on in life going to school will be beneficial to me. I know that I will need a degree to get the things in life that I want. And I know you probably want nice things too. Just try to make the best of it, because it will be over with before you know it. I don't have a lot of friends either. But remember it is about quality not quantity. Good friends are hard to find. My advice, keep looking. You my not understand this now, but being different is cool. You should embrace your individuality and make it mean the most to you. Don’t be upset because you feel like you don't have nice things. I never had a lot of money in school. Believe it or not, I don't have a lot of money right now. Looking good is not expensive; just make smart decisions about what you buy to wear. Thrift stores carry a lot of older clothes that are really fashionable that don’t cost a lot. You said that you want to move away. You can't run from your problems. Running away won't make things better. In fact they may make things worse. If you move away, you still won't have any friends, and it will be that much harder to have to try to meet new people. In all things, try to see the positive side.
Answer by La Tashia Kerr

When I first went to school I did not feel quite that way but, I did feel like that when it came to not having any friends. I admit that I did have a few problems when I first got to school but after I got comfortable with everyone and all my surroundings it became a very fun experience for me. You should not worry about what kind of clothes they have or what kind of clothes you have, just be yourself and if they try to judge you then they are really not your friends because, friends do not judge friends. To sum it all up just have fun and try and make the best of what you do!!!
Answer by Marco Martin

Q:
Dear Longhorn Leaders,
Everyday I see girls at school that have really nice clothes and I want to look like them. They have a lot of friends. But, I don't have the money to buy those things. Does it matter in college if you have those kinds of clothes?
7th grade girl

A:
The bottom line is that it doesn't matter at all what kind of clothes you wear. As a matter of fact, most of my friends and I wear free t-shirts. What you wear doesn't determine whether or not you're "cool". Treating others well is what makes you "cool". As long as you treat others well, people will like you. If anyone doesn't like you because of what you wear, then they aren't worth being friends with. You don't have to be like the other girls because being yourself is much more important. Hang out with people with whom you can be yourself. Those people are your real friends.
Answer by Brad Price

It doesn't matter what you wear or who your friends are. It's more important to be yourself and have people love and like you for who you are. So I wouldn't worry about what you look like because your popular in my mind.
Answer by Kasey Studdard

Antwaun Hobbs

2004-09-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

Antwaun Hobbs is a sophomore from Dallas, Texas. He is majoring in Math. Antwaun is a running back for the Longhorns. He also enjoys listening to music.
Written by Tyrell Gatewood

Marco Martin

2004-09-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

Marco Martin
Marco is a sophomore and from Mesquite, Texas. He plays defensive tackle.

Tyrell Gatewood

2004-09-21T06:58:00.000-07:00

Tyrell Gatewood is a sophmore at the University of Texas and is a member of the Texas Longhorn football team. He plays wide reciever and wears the number 1. He is looking foward to a promising season this year. He enjoys playing video games and chillin' in his spare time.
Written by: Antwaun Hobbs

Stevie Lee

2004-09-21T06:26:00.000-07:00

Stevie is from Shreveport, Louisiana. He is currently a senior DefensiveTackle for the Longhorns. Stevie's major is youth and community studies. His favorite hobby is eating. The most important value that Stevie's parents taught him was to be a good person. He says that the number one thing he wants people to remember about him is that he was a good person to them.
Written by Brad Price

Stevie Lee

Brad Price

2004-09-21T06:25:00.000-07:00

Brad has a mom and dad and he was taught to treat others with the same respect he wants. He is big on having good manners and being nice to people. Brad is a senior majoring in business and is a student coach in football. He is from Copperas Cove, Texas.

Interview by Tim Crowder

Sanya Richards

2004-09-21T06:06:00.000-07:00

Sanya's hometown is Pembroke Pines, Florida, but she is originally from Jamaica and still has family there. She is a sprinter (Track and Field) and won a Gold Medal in the Summer Olympics in Greece! She majors in MIS in the business school. She has a particular area of interest and that is shopping! Sanya talks about her choice of her college major.
Interview By: Bobby Tatum

2004-09-14T03:30:00.000-07:00

Cary Roberts captures the first meeting of the class under the oaks at the School of Social Work.

Bobby Tatum

2004-09-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

Bobby Tatum is from Ft. Worth, Texas. He is a defensive back/receiver for the UT football team. He is majoring in Education.
Written by Aaron Ross

Tim Crowder

2004-09-13T10:23:00.000-07:00

Tim Crowder is an Education major from Tyler, Texas. He is a defensive end for the UT football team. Other than football, Tim loves listening to music.
Written by Sanya Richards

Kasey Studdard

2004-09-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

Kasey Studdard is a sophomore from Lone Tree, Colorado. He graduated from Highlands Ranch High School and is now an offensive guard for the UT football team. You can find more about him at this site:
Written by Kelly Wilson

Rodrique Wright

2004-09-13T09:22:00.000-07:00

Rodrique Wright is a junior from Houston, Texas. He graduated from Alief Hastings and chose to continue his education and football career here at the Unviersity of Texas. He is currently majoring in Kinesiology. After graduating, he hopes to continue playing football and to start a family. Rodrique was a Longhorn Leader last year and is excited about what the program has to offer this year.
Written by LaTashia Kerr

Tony Hills

2004-09-13T09:18:00.000-07:00

Tony Hills is from Houston, Texas; although he was born in Dallas. He is a freshman tight end from Alief Elsik High School. There he was an all State selection as well as a Parade All- American. He came to Texas because he felt it was the right place for him to get both his degree and playing football at the next level.
Written by Cat Osterman

Lunch with Community Leaders

2004-09-10T09:23:00.000-07:00

On September 8th, the Longhorn Leaders had the opportunity to meet and greet important Austin community leaders. There were more than sixty people in attendance at the luncheon held at Nuevo Leon. Among those attending were the district attorney, chief of police, former mayor Roy Butler, the dean of the School of Social Work and many more. The new class of Longhorn Leaders were able to meet those who had played an important part in forming the program and those who consistently support the program. Posted below are pictures from the event.

2004-09-09T08:12:00.000-07:00

Longhorn Leaders La Tashia Kerr, Stevie Lee, Rodrique Wright, Tim Crowder, Albert Hardy, with AD Brian Davis. Seated behind Ms. Kerr is Asst. Police Chiefs Robert Dahlstrom and Rick Coy. Next to Chief Coy is Bedichek Counselor Russell Walker

2004-09-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

Juan Villa answering a question from the Speakers' Headtable. From the left, Judge Elizabeth Earle, Chief Stanley Knee, Robert Mendoza, Michael Lauderdale, Nicole Duson, Irene Guzman and Amanda Finnell

2004-09-09T07:49:00.000-07:00

Austin Police Chief Stanley Knee speaking to Longhorn Leader and UT Assistant Strength Coach Derek Lewis and Assistant Police Chief Rick Coy

2004-09-09T07:37:00.000-07:00

Roy Butler, President of the Greater Austin Crime Commission, Fred Ligarde, Founding Member of the Commission and Mike Lauderdale reviewing the agenda for the Leadership Luncheon

2004-09-09T07:16:00.000-07:00

Letter From Texas Governor Perry Saluting the Efforts of the Leaders and the Start of the new class

2004-09-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

Senior Longhorn Leader "Cat" Osterman signing autographs for District Attorney Ronnie Earle, Judge Elizabeth Earle and AISD Board President Doyle Valdez

2004-09-09T06:57:00.000-07:00

Bedichek Principal Gail Belcher describing the effort during Spring 04

2004-09-09T06:54:00.000-07:00

Dean Barbara White with Marco Martin and Albert Hardy at the 04 Semester Longhorn Leaders Meet With Community Leaders

La Tashia Kerr

2004-09-07T06:19:00.000-07:00

"Never be jealous of people or things that they have. Remember that with hard work, you can have the same things if not better."
La Tashia is a three-time all-state performer for track powerhouse, Forest Brook High in Houston. She helped to lead their track team to three straight district titles from 1999-2001. She is now a sophomore majoring in nursing. La Tashia is also the recipient of the 2002-03 UT Women's Athletics Abbie and Wales Madden Endowed Scholarship.

Amanda Finnell

2004-09-03T15:44:00.000-07:00

Amanda Finnell is from Waco, Texas and graduated from Baylor University in May 2003. She is now a second-year graduate student in the School of Social Work. Amanda is the graduate teaching assistant for the Longhorn Leaders. She will be the liaison between the Longhorn Leaders and the schools, and will also be managing the website. Feel free to email her at amandafinnell@mail.utexas.edu with any questions.

Derek Lewis

2004-09-02T12:33:00.000-07:00

Derek Lewis returned to campus after a professional career that included two years with the St. Louis Rams and a Super Bowl Ring. Derek played for The University from 1995 to 1999 as Tight End including Texas' Cotton Bowl victory that year. A graduate of New Orleans' St. Augustine High and a member of the National Honor Society, Derek set the pace for the Spring 2004 class. In addtion to presentations at Bedichek and Webb middle schools, he completed several at area elementary schools assisted in the training of the Austin Police Academy's Cadet Program in 2004 and spoke to the staff of Garner Betts Facility for youth on delinquency prevention.

He works in the Strength and Conditioning Program and will finish his bachelaurate degree in December of 2004 with a kinesiology major. He will continue to assist the new class this fall.

Longhorn Leaders for Fall 2004

2004-09-02T08:10:00.000-07:00

The new class members are: Tim Crowder, Nichole Denby, Albert Hardy, Tony Hills, Erick Jackson, La Tashia Kerr, Stevie Lee, Andra Manson, Marco Martin, Brad Price, Sanya Richards, Kasey Studdard, Bobby Tatum, Kelly Wilson, Rodrique Wright, Aaron Ross and Aaron Harris.

The first participating school is Bedichek Middle School. Presentations will begin in October.

A Game Plan for Life

2004-08-29T22:01:00.000-07:00

A Game Plan for Life
Longhorn student-athletes steer youth
in right direction through unique program

There’s no denying the power of the press. Through the media, we worship the rich, the powerful, the talented and the attractive. For better or worse, these manufactured heroes are portrayed as role models. And while their public deeds and misdeeds are showcased on every screen and every front page, rarely do we hear about positive influences they have on others.

But this is one of those stories, and it’s happening right here in Austin.

Will Matthews talks with students at Pearce Middle School.

In an effort to reach out to adolescents in at-risk schools, student-athletes from The University of Texas at Austin are acting as mentors in a new program unique among universities in the Big 12 Conference. The Longhorn Leaders program, a collaboration among the university, the Greater Austin Crime Commission, the Austin Independent School District (AISD) and the Austin Police Department, debuted in fall 2003.

The program is the brainchild of Dr. Michael Lauderdale, professor of social work. When Fred Ligarde, former FBI agent and one of the founding directors of the Greater Austin Crime Commission, approached Lauderdale, he requested the university’s help in working with AISD middle school children who are at risk.

Rather than proposing a one-time community outreach project, Lauderdale recognized the need to create a program based on personal, lasting relationships that would provide long-term effects for the children. To achieve this, he developed an upper-division social work course designed specifically for student-athletes, both male and female.

“The Greater Austin Crime Commission wanted to reach out to adolescents at a crucial time in their lives, when life-altering decisions are too often based on negative influences such as drugs, gangs, sex and peer pressure,” said Lauderdale. “It’s a time in their lives when few adults can penetrate the mindsets of young teens.”

However, both Lauderdale and Ligarde believe the adolescents will listen and respond to these highly recognized student-athletes. And that the student-athletes stories will resonate in the minds and actions of these young teens.

Alexis Garcia, Longhorn softball first baseman, is soft-spoken, reserved and feminine. Yet her words—like her talent on the field—are self-assured, confident and precise.

Having grown up in Covina, Calif., just outside of Los Angeles, Garcia lived in a suburb where problems blossomed from the “haves,” rather than the “have nots.”

When asked about her school experience, she reflected on the two biggest issues that plagued her peers and schoolmates—teen pregnancy and drugs.

“At these early ages you already hear the excuses beginning to build. The kids know they are disadvantaged and they, early on, rely on this to excuse their bad behaviors,” Ligarde said. “They need role models—such as these athletes—to show them there are no excuses. When they hear that the athletes had the same hard luck stories, yet went on to achieve their dreams, the kids think twice about decisions they’re making and about placing blame. More than anything, this program is about convincing the students to make the right choices.”

And that message is important to the other partner in the program, the Austin Police Department.

Each time the athletes visit the schools they are accompanied by members of the Austin Police Department. They are not there to enforce anything other than a strengthened relationship with the kids. The officers attending are those assigned to the neighborhoods where the kids live, according to Ligarde.

“Their purpose is to convince the middle schoolers that they are not ‘the enemy,’ but rather a source the teens can turn to if they need help,” Ligarde said. Often children have problems with parents, family members and friends. They have no one to confide in, and they end up feeling helpless and isolated. The officers want the kids to understand that their role is not just to enforce the law but to provide protection and assistance.”

Lauderdale ensures that the student-athletes also provide more than just an authoritative voice.
The Longhorn Leaders course requirements include readings and lectures on adolescent development, peer pressures and counseling techniques. Athletes are required to familiarize themselves with issues surrounding adolescent interpersonal communication. Throughout the semester, hours are dedicated to creating video presentations, listening to other presentations, learning about leadership skills, visiting Austin middle schools and gaining a sense of what it means to be a role model.

“Many of our athletes are surprised by what they are getting out of this program,” said Brian Davis, associate director in men’s athletics. “Sure, they can walk into McDonald’s and have people recognize them and ask for their autographs. But this is the first time some of them really understand what it means to be a role model. And it’s the first time they were talking about their lives and about what leadership means. Not their stats. Not their game. But their own personal stories of how they got to where they are today.”

At an imposing 6 feet 4 inches and 235 pounds, UT linebacker Derrick Johnson commands attention.

But don’t let appearances fool you. He’s a gentle giant whose words reflect a man of introspection and thoughtfulness.

At least off the field, that is.

Johnson, the youngest of four children, moved from Waco to Austin to attend The University of Texas at Austin. When he was 3 years old his parents divorced and his mother raised him and his three older siblings.

“It’s a great feeling to know that we can influence younger generations,” said UT All-American linebacker Derrick Johnson. “Many of the students know us from television, so they get real excited and give us their undivided attention. Now they also know us for our leadership. And it’s good to have that influence.”

Four middle schools, chosen by the Austin Independent School District, participated during the 2003-2004 academic year. The schools—Martin, Pearce, Bedicheck and Webb—were chosen for their high populations of at-risk children.

“The program was extremely well-received in the schools,” said Robert Mendoza, Partners in Education representative in the AISD. “We had a few athletes scheduled to speak at Parents’ Night at Pearce Middle School. They normally have about 30-35 parents show up. Four hundred showed up that night.

“This was a tremendous benefit we hadn’t expected. Anything that will make parents become more involved in their children’s lives is extremely valuable.”

During fall 2003, the university athletes visited each middle school twice. During spring 2004, Lauderdale increased the number of visits to five to build upon the growing relationships between the athletes and the students. During each session the students watched videos and heard personal accounts of the athletes’ lives. They learned about the hardships, temptations and dilemmas these young adults had to overcome to achieve their dreams of getting into college. And they learned that each and every one of these “famous faces” was once just like them—young teens with difficult decisions to make about their futures and about their lives.

Lily Garcia, counselor at Bedicheck Middle School, was skeptical at first.

“I was doubtful that these popular athletes could have a significant effect on our kids. I figured our students wouldn’t relate to their stories.

“I was wrong. They presented themselves as ordinary people—not athletes. They shared stories of hardships and pain. It had an extremely positive impact on our students. I saw immediate reactions to the presentations and, during the past year, long-term effects on behaviors and attitudes.”

The behaviors the kids are emulating resonated in the words of almost every athlete. Words such as respect, value, self-confidence and integrity.

Derrick Johnson meets with students at Pearce Middle School.

“I told them that one of the major contributors for me, a black male, making it out of the ‘hood and into college was respect. Respect for your family, your parents, your guardians and your elders—always. No matter what,” said Longhorn running back Selvin Young.

The fact that college athletes deliver these messages is a crucial factor in the success of the program, according to Lauderdale.

“The athletes speak this message not as authorities but as preferred reference groups,” he said. “If the chief of police was to talk to them, or the mayor, or the UT president, they likely wouldn’t listen. But when it comes to athletes, these guys are their heroes. And they DO listen.”

It’s not always easy.

“Both the athletes and the students we visited learned valuable lessons we didn’t foresee going into this program,” said Lauderdale.

“During football season we lost to Oklahoma, and our athletes were extremely despondent. I knew they were going to have a difficult time, and I asked a number of the football players if they could handle delivering their upcoming presentations. They were adamant that they didn’t want to let the seventh-graders down, so they went on with the presentations. Both our athletes and the middle-schoolers in attendance learned the important lesson of overcoming disappointment and fulfilling responsibilities.”

According to the responses received about the program, the students learned more than a few valuable lessons from the experience. When asked to write about what they learned from their visits with the athletes the phrases “to live your own life and make your own decisions,” “to work hard at your goals” and “to think about the future when you make choices” appeared dozens of times. Numerous students wrote they were amazed the athletes were surprisingly like them and that these sports stars had overcome the same obstacles and peer pressures they, themselves, were facing. Many wrote that the program, referred to as “training” by some, changed their lives.

“I don’t have to be perfect, but I have to make the right decisions to be a good person, and most of all a successful person, “ wrote one seventh grader. “Just by talking to us, they changed my opinion and my future. I am very thankful.”

Amy Maverick Crossette

Photos: Chris Carson

Alexis Garcia

Alexis Garcia, Longhorn softball first baseman, is soft-spoken, reserved and feminine. Yet her words—like her talent on the field—are self-assured, confident and precise.

Having grown up in Covina, Calif., just outside of Los Angeles, Garcia lived in a suburb where problems blossomed from the “haves,” rather than the “have nots.”

When asked about her school experience, she reflected on the two biggest issues that plagued her peers and schoolmates—teen pregnancy and drugs.

“I grew up in an area where there were a number of wealthy students,” she said. “Many of them had the means to buy drugs. It was a big problem in our school, along with teen pregnancy.

“One of my best friends got pregnant at age 14. She began to hang out with a bad group of kids, and when she found out she was pregnant all her ‘new-found’ friends deserted her. She had to rely on old friends to help her through the pregnancy.”

Alexis grew up in a household where both parents were members of the Los Angeles Police Department. While her parents were involved in her life and helped guide her to make the right choices, she learned a valuable lesson that is missing in many kids’ lives.

“When we went to the schools and did our presentations, the kids were totally respectful of the athletes and the other speakers, but when the policemen started talking, the kids ignored them and were acting up,” she said.

“I stood up and reminded them that these officers were there to protect them and to help watch over them,” she said. “It’s sad that they’ve learned to disrespect police officers and authority in general. “

Did she think the Longhorn Leaders program had any effect on the kids?

“Just the fact that we cared enough to show up and talk to them obviously made a big difference to the kids,” she said. “That’s what they need the most at this time in their lives. Just for someone to show they care.”

Derrick Johnson

At an imposing 6 feet 4 inches and 235 pounds, UT linebacker Derrick Johnson commands attention.

But don’t let appearances fool you. He’s a gentle giant whose words reflect a man of introspection and thoughtfulness.

At least off the field, that is.

Johnson, the youngest of four children, moved from Waco to Austin to attend The University of Texas at Austin. When he was 3 years old his parents divorced and his mother raised him and his three older siblings.

A strict disciplinarian, she taught Johnson values such as self-respect, good study habits and responsibility. Her legacy lives on not only through her own children, but through the hundreds of children she taught, mentored and cared for during her 33 years as a sixth-grade-teacher.

“My mother was very involved in my life and taught at the school I went to,” said Johnson. “I learned from her that if you want to be successful, you have to separate yourself and have a plan and a sense of direction in life.

“She knew that I would do the right thing when she was around. However, she made sure that I learned to do the right thing even when she wasn’t around. There’s a crucial difference in those two things.”

While his mother played a vital role in his success, so did Johnson’s extended family.

“My mother was from Palestine, Texas, and is one of 21 kids. Family has always been extremely important to me. They have always been my support system.”

When asked if he thought the Longhorn Leaders program would make a difference, he paused a moment for reflection.

“It’s automatically assumed that everyone knows the difference between right and wrong. But, that’s not necessarily true,” said Johnson. “If you do a lot of bad things, your perceptions of right and wrong change. You begin to have a different concept of what’s acceptable and what isn’t. It’s our job to help kids recognize the difference.”

Related Sites:

School of Social Work
Longhorn Sports
Austin Independent School District
Austin Police Department
Greater Austin Crime Commission

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P.O. Box Z
Austin, Texas
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512-471-3151
Fax 512-471-5812

2004-08-29T21:43:00.000-07:00

Chance noted that going to college and playing football was not always a "bed of roses!" Attending classes, making practices, finding time to eat and studying the playbook filled the hours in every day. Football is a game of wins and losses. Chance said, "It is great to come to school Monday after a victory, but it can be unpleasant when things don't go well on a Saturday. But you always show up just like we are asking you to always show up in your classes!"

Jody Bell

2004-08-29T21:42:00.000-07:00

Sandwiched between practices each day Jody joined the class on Monday afternoons after her academic classes. In addition to her presentations at Martin and Pearce, she brought the concept to the elementary schools, piloting the effort at Lindner Elementary School in south Austin.

Derrick Johnson at Pearce

2004-08-29T18:38:00.000-07:00

Football11/27/03Longhorn Leaders: Making a Difference

By Carrie Kaiser

Seventh grade can be a very trying and uncertain time in life as a few more rungs of the ladder between adolescence and adulthood are reached. This period is a critical point in terms of shaping the outcomes of one's life. It is a time where things can fall into place or where life might take a turn for the worse. It is a time when the Longhorn Leaders step in and try to make a difference.

The Longhorn Leaders arrived on the scene this semester through the mind of the Clara Pope Willoughby Centennial Professor in Criminal Justice, Dr. Michael Lauderdale. After listening to the thoughts of several athletes through various classes he leads, Dr. Lauderdale developed Social Work 360: Leadership in the Community.The focal program of the class, Longhorn Leaders, utilizes the visibility of upper-class student athletes to promote the values of strong leadership, participation and discipline into a language seventh graders can relate to."The four-part goal of the program is to convey good choices," Dr. Lauderdale said. "These are to stay in school, make the best possible grades, stay away from trouble by avoiding gangs, drugs and pregnancy, and finish school and work for success in life."

The football players in this program include RB Cedric Benson, S Phillip Geiggar, RB Eric Hall, WR Tony Jeffery, RB Anthony Johnson, LB Derrick Johnson, FB Will Matthews, QB Chance Mock, P Justin Smith and WR Roy Williams.They traveled to Pearce and Martin Middle Schools in Austin three times each this semester to speak to the seventh graders and took turns delivering their unique messages. Each player reflected on his own seventh grade experience and prepared a message through his personal story to connect with the kids. "We just go out and try to give a good message to the kids and show them that there is hope," junior Chance Mock said. "Sometimes you have to fight through adversity and fight through things to get where you want to go, but the main thing is that you can reach your goals."

This unique partnership involves the Longhorn athletes, the UT School of Social Work, the Greater Austin Crime Commission, the Austin Police Department and the Austin Independent School District. The purpose of this partnership is to relay to the seventh graders that the police and school officials are here to help with their development and educational experiences. "The presentations are about making the junior high kids aware of how much education is a big part of their success in life," junior Derrick Johnson said. "We give them a little background from our experiences and tips on how to get where we are now. They look to us as role models, so what better way to get across the importance of education?"The athletes come to speak not as authority figures, but as peers, and to provide an alternative, positive message to adolescent delinquency.

Dr. Lauderdale intends on continuing the program in the future, moving on to Pearce Middle School next semester, because of the positive feedback."These athletes are very visible individuals, and if they can tell their personal stories it might be very powerful for those seventh grade students," Dr. Lauderdale said. "Certainly the schools and neighborhoods have gotten very excited about this."

Will Matthews

2004-08-29T18:03:00.000-07:00

Will would start each of his presentations by saying that he was known as "headache" by his team members. But he explained that the nickname was given for his hard blocking style for ball carriers such as Cedric.

Cedric Benson at Pearce Fall 2003

2004-08-29T17:59:00.000-07:00

Photo Gallery

Rationale for This Site

2004-08-29T17:57:00.000-07:00

This site is used to chronicle the course and provide some biographical information from Longhorn Leaders' Class Members for Fall 2003, Spring 2004 and Fall 2004 to 7th grade participants from Bedichek Middle School in Austin.

Class members in the Fall of 2003 were: Jody Bell, Cedric Benson, Phillip Geiggar, Annissa Hastings, Tony Jeffery, Derrick Johnson, Anthony Johnson, Chance Mock, Justin Smith and Roy Williams. Our Participating Schools were Martin and Pearce Middle Schools and Lindner Elementary.

Class members in the Spring of 2004 were: Nichole Denby, Adair Fragoso, Alexis Garcia, Mike Garcia, Cedric Griffin, Aaron Harris, Albert Hardy, Melanie Jarrett, Erin Phenix,Katie Ruckert, Aurmon Satchell, Garnet Smoith, Kasey Studdard,Brett Valdez, Michael Williams, Rodrique Wright, Vince Young, Selvin Young, Phillip Geiggar, Derrick Johnson and Derek Lewis. Morgan Stokes and Catherine Mullan were graduate assistants.

Community Police Officers were: Bret Dupre, Dana Munguia, Stephanie Taylor and Jimmy Diaz.