Winthrop University is committed to providing a comprehensive program of life skills that will assist student-athletes in their development of a well-balanced lifestyle. This program will help student-athletes develop proper decision making capabilities, plan and pursue their career and life goals, and enhance the quality of their experience while attending Winthrop University. This proactive program is further designed to provide student-athletes with the skills and experiences necessary to maximize their leadership potential while at Winthrop and to take those characteristics with them as they pursue a productive life after college sport. The Life Skills program focuses on the individual as a whole – academically, athletically, and emotionally – and on the changing needs of each individual. The philosophy of the program is that the more balanced the student-athlete's life is, the better they will be able to perform.
Through the Life Skills program, Winthrop University offers a variety of workshops on health related and student success issues to teams as well as individual student-athletes. Most of these programs utilize the varied resources on campus, including Career Services, the Writing Center, and Counseling Services, as well as the services of several campus based nutritionists, exercise physiologists and sports psychologists. In addition, the CHAMPS/Life Skills program encourages student-athletes to make meaningful contributions to their communities through several community outreach programs. It is hoped that by taking advantage of the Life Skills offerings, student-athletes will become more well-rounded and better able to use their athletic experience as preparation for later success.
CHAMPS/Life Skills Program Commitment Statements
Implemented in NCAA institutions in 1994, the CHAMPS/Life Skills program was created to improve and enhance the student-athlete experience within their selected university. The program is founded on the following commitment statements:
Commitment to Academic Excellence
To support the academic progress of the student-athlete toward intellectual development and graduation.
Commitment to Athletic Excellence
To build philosophical foundations for the development of athletic programs that are broad-based, equitable and dedicated to the well-being of the student-athlete.
Commitment to Personal Development
To support the development of a well-balanced lifestyle for student-athletes, encouraging emotional well-being, personal growth and decision-making skills.
Commitment to Career Development
To encourage the student-athlete to develop and pursue career and life goals.
Commitment to Service
To engage the student-athlete in service to his or her campus and surrounding communities.
