E-Gridiron Group Lends an Ear to Football Players
11/20/2009 5:26:07 PM
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) – Players on the Eastern Michigan University football team are developing mentoring relationships with former EMU football players through the E-Gridiron Group (EGG) that offer the younger players advice, counsel, guidance and support on all things football, and life in general.
The EGG began four years ago as a means to encourage former players to get involved again with the football program and has evolved into a group that not only helps the program financially, but also helps the players on a personal level through its two-year old mentoring program.
“Not only do we help players become better students and better athletes, hopefully we can help teach them to develop contacts that will assist them in their post-graduate life,” said Brett Petersmark, president of the E-Gridiron Group.
The EGG works closely with the coaching staff to determine the best mentor for each individual student-athlete by looking at each player's situation and assigning the mentor that has the most common background.
“We've all played ball and can relate to the players' experiences,” said Brian Clouse,co-chair of the EGG mentoring program. “Because of this we know the process and are able to lend an ear and provide support down the road if and when players need us.”
All former EMU football players are eligible to become an EGG mentor and each mentor is typically assigned to no more than three athletes. Although it sounds like a large time commitment, all that is required is an open line of communication between a mentor and their players.
“It's really rewarding when the kids reach out to you for advice. What it really says is that you're making a difference with them and they're listening and they want to learn,” said Patrick McInnis, EGG mentor. “It's one thing to go watch a game and sit on the sidelines; it's another thing to know you can have a positive influence on a kid's life.”
The EGG has had such a great impact on the football program that other EMU athletics programs are now using the group as a template; EMU basketball is organizing an E-Hoops Group and others are in the works.
“We're trying to build a lasting tradition to provide support from alumni to current players and the University, that's really what it's all about,” said Petersmark.
For more information about the E-Gridiron Group or for information about how to become a mentor, visit www.emueaglesfootball.com