#UCFamily – Behind the helmets

The word “family” may be used more now in sports than ever before.  Many various factors attribute to the popularity of the term – a rise in multiple youth team groups or programs, mainstream media is much more available, social media is at our finger tips, & even to the extent of offering a family atmosphere in sports that is not available at home.  Regardless of the reason or take on it, the majority of the youth sports programs through the collegiate level and even at the pro level in some cases ,  commonly reference how “It’s like family here.”  But UCF lives by it.

By no means is this written to downplay any other sports program that discusses their family atmosphere.  It is solely to provide a perspective based on my exposure to the UCF program, teams, athletes, & staff.  My days of being a die hard fan to a logo are long gone.  I am, however, a die hard fan of good people & UCF athletics fits the mold.

Growing up playing sports, the excitement of the game will never go away. Now, I equally enjoy the interpersonal side of the game.  It is what the individuals are like behind the logo on their helmet, uniform, or hat which truly inspires me.   Witnessing the athletes interact with each other during workouts, practice, pregame warm ups, & even during the games does provide a good look at their team chemistry, but how they are off the field solidifies their an identity as a family. 

During the off season, the UCF athletes can be regularly seen volunteering in the community…not because it is required or a camera is on them.  It is because of their selfless passion to help others in their community – to build their family – their #UCFamily.