FSU Emphasizing Off-Field Conduct In New Course Tailored Toward Student-Athletes

Florida State’s emphasis on off-field behavior "will range from a new course that will be required for all athletes to a host of guest speakers," including Navy Seals and former Ohio State RB Maurice Clarett, according to Tom D'Angelo of the PALM BEACH POST. As part of the programs implemented by FSU President John Thrasher, AD Stan Wilcox and football coach Jimbo Fisher, the school is "creating a course designed to provide more in-depth instruction concerning the various responsibilities of athletes." The course, which "will be open to all students but will be a requirement for athletes, will incorporate some of what has already been in place, such as guest speakers, along with dealing with issues facing young adults like domestic violence and drug and alcohol abuse." In addition, it will "teach the athletes how to manage finances in light of the NCAA’s passage of cost-of-attendance measures, which will supplement athletes with additional money to cover cost-of-living expenses outside of athletic scholarships." Wilcox said that the football team "took part in an interactive program called 'Whoaman' facilitated by guest speaker Tyrone White and will join Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson’s national campaign against domestic violence called 'Pass the Peace.'" The campaign "uses social media to raise awareness of domestic violence." Fisher has "brought in six guest speakers the first week of camp and has another six schedule in the next week." This is "in addition to the guest speakers who came through prior to the start of camp." Furthermore, experts in sexual assault, domestic violence, anger management, social media, stress, mental toughness and team work "will share their experiences" (PALM BEACH POST, 8/15).

(TALLAHASSEE.com, 8/15).