Sports Buzz

Nearly three months ago when I was hired as sports editor of The Scribe, I must admit I really had no extensive knowledge of UCCS athletics.

It wasn't until we were in production of the first issue that I even became aware we had a golf team, and no, it wasn't because I didn't care about them. My previous ignorance of UCCS sports was due to the fact that our athletic program as a whole doesn't get very much media coverage (or the attention they deserve).

Sure, we are a smaller school and UCCS athletics competes in the in the Division II venue arena, but across the board we have great student athletes. I want to place my emphasis on the "student" part of that title.

Now, as I just stated, our athletes may not get the media coverage or attention they deserve, but there is an overlooked aspect regarding this: You never hear about UCCS athletes being involved in scandals or exemplifying outrageous behavior, whether it be partying, cheating, gambling, etc. I believe our athletes place value on their morals, actions and attitudes both on and off the field.

As I was surfing the web, much like I always do in between classes, I came across a link that posted the Top 50 Collegiate Sports Scandals of all time. They ranged from athletes throwing games on purpose in exchange for gambling payoffs, to athletes paying others to do their mid-term papers and exams. Some of the other scandals were astounding to say the least.

My immediate reaction was how grateful I was not to be a student there, because some of the universities and athletic programs involved are still tarnished and degraded to this day by the insane choices their athletes made. I am proud to be a student of UCCS and feel privileged to write about Mountain Lion athletics.

With all that being said, my point is to commend and acknowledge our student athletes for their leadership as citizens in the community, students in the classroom and competitors on the field.

Mountain Lion athletics have shown great improvement this fall, as most have accumulated winning streaks and possible post-season appearances, but more importantly, several athletes have been recognized for their academic success by making the RMAC All-Academic Team.

By making the right choices and pursuing their education with tenacity and determination, our men and women are truly "student athletes." It continues to solidify my view that UCCS sits atop Austin Bluffs for a reason: We will continue to soar higher than the rest.

I want to acknowledge all the athletes who wear that Mountain Lion uniform week in and week out representing UCCS. The accomplishments the athletes make don't go unnoticed and even though I am but a pawn in a university that continues to grow and expand, I say job well done to each one of you.