Many student-athletes work hard to succeed in both their sports and their academics. Many of these athletes work really hard, and although appreciated, they also affect everyday students who come to Cal Poly who are not involved in sports. These college athletes provide inspiration for those not involved in sports and only academics. It provides a feel for having to work hard if so many of these athletes have become successful after college.
An article written by the University of Cincinatti, they state “they embody what it means to be a leader, mentor, and role model. In addition to balancing their coursework, practice schedules, and competition, many still find time to give back to their communities.” Not only are these athletes dedicating time to their sport, but they are constantly working hard outside the field as well. This shows the importance that they have on and off the field.
Cal Poly has had many successful athletes who have moved to the big leagues. The two recent and most well-known athletes are Brooks Lee, who plays for the Minnesota Twins in Major League Baseball, and Elijah Ponder, who had just played at Super Bowl LX with the New England Patriots.
These athletes have made their time in college last, and Cal Poly and the staff have made this real and possible for them.
Brooks Lee has been with the Minnesota Twins for about four years now, being drafted on July 22nd, and getting brought up to the Major Leagues on July 3rd of 2024. He has shown an intense amount of growth and is a very loved player, especially by San Luis Obispo locals, because he is a part of what residents here call home.
Elijah Ponder graduated from Cal Poly last year and was picked up as a free agent by the New England Patriots. Ever since he made it to the Super Bowl this year. His time playing at Cal Poly included very high statistics, which got him where he is now. “He was named First-Team All Big Sky in both 2023 and 2024 and set the school record with 44 quarterback hurries.” (Kaylin O’Connell). He is a very successful player and was the first Cal Poly student since 2012 to be drafted to the NFL.
Although you may think these athletes only impact other teammates or future athletes, they also have an impact on those who don’t play sports
It’s important to highlight the athletes and the staff who make a difference in this campus and community. It is nice to see students on campus connecting and growing respect for one another, no matter the difficulty or difference that they go through when in college. These athletes and students work really hard to reach their goals for the future that they would want to provide for themselves.
The world that these athletes have beyond the field is as impactful and important for when providing effort and hard work on the field.