What's good folks! Cool one coming up for you tonight. Big thanks to @Chip_Towers for the assist a couple weeks back.
97: Number of Georgia athletes who graduated in May 2019
We all know in the back of our minds that college athletes are more than that, but that's easily forgotten with media coverage and the millions of dollars flowing into collegiate athletic programs across the country. I think it's good to consciously recognize the kids that probably don't have a shot at professional sports and their drive to get that life-changing diploma from a very good institution in Georgia. It's a generalization, but a lot of football players don't come from affluence or opportunity. Sports can open those doors for the young men and women who seek that achievement.
14 football players lined up in Sanford Stadium on May 10 to be formally recognized for the academic success over the last few years. Justin Young is the only guy who will play in 2019 who received his degree this year. Some other notable names: Michael Chigbu, Malkom Parrish, John Theus, Shakenneth Williams, and Jarvis Wilson. I'm not going to steal any thunder from the good Mr. Towers, so here's the link to his full article for a list of all 97 graduates:
It's really important, I think, to keep things like in perspective. We only know most of these kids for what they can provide on a field or a court, but they're young people who are trying to find their own way in the world. A college degree is practically a minimum requirement for a large section of the job market nowadays. I'm proud to be a graduate of a University who provides the opportunity for a better life. Go Dawgs!