If you are a long-time reader of our publications, you may be familiar with our Jesuit Basketball Spotlight (JBS) program that raises awareness of Jesuit higher education through more than 80 men’s and women’s basketball games played between Jesuit teams every year. Over the past few years, we have worked hard to spread the word through Twitter, Facebook and our weekly e-newsletter, as well as AJCU’s 60-second promotional video screened at arenas across the country. We also name men’s and women’s National Jesuit Players of the Week during the regular season to honor the many outstanding athletes who play their hearts out every week.
Basketball is not the only sport through which our readers can learn about the mission and values of a Jesuit education. This month’s issue of Connections features football players from Fordham University and volleyball players from Wheeling Jesuit University who are making a difference in the lives of the less fortunate by volunteering at home and abroad. As well, College of the Holy Cross lacrosse alumni launched a career mentorship program to give back to their alma mater by helping current players find jobs after graduation. And the innovative Inside the L program at Le Moyne College is teaching student-athletes how to seek the Magis and find God in all things – both on the court and off.
As this issue coincides with March Madness, we are pleased to share a loving tribute to the Loyola University Maryland men’s basketball team by former player Jimmy “Jumpshot” Smith. We’re also thrilled to report that many of our basketball teams are competing in post-season tournaments, both women and men. If you’re interested in learning more, write to jesuitbasketball@ajcunet.edu to receive tournament e-news updates.
As you will learn through these stories, our schools’ athletic programs produce more than student-athletes: They produce men and women for and with others.
All the best,
Deanna I. Howes
Director of Communications, AJCU