My Lumberjack Life | Gavin Roland
9/10/2020 7:00:00 PM | Football
SFA Athletics is continuing a new series called My Lumberjack Life. As we navigate the world of college athletes in the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 atmosphere, we wanted to give our athletes a chance to demonstrate what makes them MORE than just an athlete. These stories give us a glimpse into what drives each student-athlete, both on and off the field of play.
Over the last four years at SFA, I have prided myself on "living a championship lifestyle on and off the field", as my head coach would say. I have been able to achieve this lifestyle through the core values SFA Athletics has instilled in me. Teamwork, Excellence, Accountability, Integrity and Innovation are values that have cultivated my rigorous preparation for every test put in front of me. Tackling my pre-medical course work, serving on the executive board of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, and investing time into the local Nacogdoches community are just some of the demanding tasks outside of sports that I have enjoyed partaking in during my time here at SFA. All the hours studying in the library, preparing on the field, and developing relationships through engaged conversation with others have enabled me to manifest the best version of myself to contribute to my team, my university, and my community.
As a student-athlete at Stephen F Austin, I also learned that to be the best version of myself I must realize I have the power to make a difference. My teammates, coaching staff, and athletic department have given me the platform and courage to stand up for what I believe is right.
In unprecedented times like these, moments become permanent. Every snapshot, every post and every article captures a moment that will contribute to redefining history as we know it. In this moment I am creating right now, I hope above anything this story captures the need for humane treatment of humans.
As a student-athlete at SFA , I need the world to understand the devastating impact that social injustice has had on my fellow athletes and myself. In this small piece of written permanence, I need the world to see us as more than just athletes. I need everyone to see past the numbers on our jerseys and see us as sons, brothers, daughters, sisters, students and most importantly humans.
"Does a black life matter to you?"
This question is not political. The answer should not be controversial. The only acceptable answer is yes.
It is going to take everyone modifying their lenses to see the world from a more empathetic perspective to make sure that "humane treatment for humans" lives beyond just a snapshot in history.
I know that through the lessons I have learned at Stephen F Austin State University I am equipped with more than just the ability to play my sport, that I also have the ability to promote the progress I would like to see in the world. The progress towards building a more united local, national and global community in the future.
Love & AxeEm Forever
- G
