Bonding and BBQ

Aug. 20, 2009

LAWRENCE, KAN – BBQ was on the minds of many student-athletes Thursday night, but they gained much more than a full stomach.

“I am excited to meet new athletes because a lot of people come from different places. Then we can come to the games and cheer each other on,” said Annette Davis, freshman women’s basketball player.

There were also returning athletes that attended, like Jake Sharp, senior football player.

“The BBQ helped me open my eyes to the broad spectrum of all the athletes, and I’m excited to get to know all the athletes, especially the young ladies,” he joked.

A sense of family and community was present, including the baseball team that wore matching black Jayhawk polo shirts.

Jacob Bransetter, junior football player, said, “This BBQ gives us an opportunity to show love to our new players and teach them what it means to be a Jayhawk as a unit.”

The student-athletes all prepared for the upcoming season in different ways. For instance, Maria Jackson, women’s golf sophomore, spent her summer playing golf in North Carolina and on the beach after her tournaments.

The BBQ gave everyone a chance to reconnect and swap stories after a summer apart.

The student-athletes relaxed after a long day of practices and class. Katie Martinich, senior volleyball player, said, “It’s a great way to unwind and take the night off.”

The student-athletes came for the food, but left as a family ready to support each other through wins, loses and championships ahead.