The Importance of Mental Health in Sports: Why It matters

Posted on August 2, 2023August 15, 2023 by Julia Genoves

The Importance of Mental Health in Nebraska Sports

The importance of mental health in sports is often overlooked when we talk about athletics; it’s easy for us to focus on the physical progress and endurance of athletes and their career achievements; it’s exciting and emotional!

However, did you know that nearly one in four college athletes exhibit symptoms of depression? This condition can significantly deteriorate their lives, impede their willingness to practice, and affect their performance.

Mental Health in sports Nebraska Athlete

The Importance of Mental Health in Sports

Mental health in sports goes beyond just being able to compete with a clear mind; it refers to the psychological and emotional well-being of athletes, and it encompasses a broad range of issues.

These issues are not exclusive to professional big league athletes; varsity and local sports athletes are equally prone to mental health issues. But why exactly is that? What causes an athlete to get to those dark places?

Overtraining and Physical Exhaustion

The pressure to consistently deliver peak performance and be perfect can lead to overtraining, resulting in chronic fatigue, which can trigger depression episodes.

Overtraining can also lead to burnout, which is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress. When athletes feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands, they are more prone to have mental health issues.

Injuries

Sports injuries can have a profound psychological impact on athletes. The physical pain, combined with the stress of recovery and the fear of not being able to return to the sport, can lead to feelings of loss of self-worth. Athletes who are injured may also struggle with their identity, especially if they have always identified themselves primarily as an athlete.

Moreover, Physical injuries and recoveries can take a big toll on a personal financial situation, which can lead to depression. The constant worry about mounting bills and an uncertain future can distract from the recovery process, and most athletes are unaware of the nonprofit organization that can help them.

Pressure and Stress

Athletes often face immense pressure to perform, both from themselves and others. This constant stress can take a toll on their mental health over time.

For varsity athletes, the pressure of keeping a scholarship and reputation in their academy and society can be overwhelming.

A 2020 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that elite athletes are at an increased risk of mental health symptoms and disorders because of the constant stress put on them to accomplish their goals.

Fear of Failure

Athletes are frequently under the microscope, with every move scrutinized, every mistake magnified, and every performance evaluated. The high expectations set by themselves and others can create immense pressure to perform flawlessly.

That’s why the fear of underperforming or letting down teammates, coaches, fans, and overall failure can be a significant source of anxiety and depression.

Retirement from Sport

Transitioning out of a sports career can be a challenging time for athletes. Athletes often spend years, even decades, giving everything they have to a sport and a team.

This intense commitment and singular focus can result in a strong identification as an athlete. When the time comes to retire, they may struggle with a loss of identity. And feeling like they lost their purpose in life.

Lack of a Support System

Lastly, despite being surrounded by teammates and coaches, some athletes may feel isolated or misunderstood, which can exacerbate feelings of depression.

While teammates and coaches can provide a valuable support network, they may not fully understand the depth of an athlete’s emotional struggles, especially when athletes are often perceived with a stereotype of being strong and not needing any help or support system.

Athletes, Not Entertainers

Think about Simone Biles, Michael Phelps, Serena Williams, or any of your favorite athletes, and think of what you feel when you see them in action.

Think of the millions of people who show up for the Olympics, for tournaments, or tune in to their favorite sports channel just to see them play. How will that make YOU feel?

In the 21 century, when every move and game is aired and recorded for eternity when social media is used to discuss every move, athletes are more and more like celebrities, like entertainment for the viewers, and it’s like professional sports players.

It’s essential to challenge the notion that athletes exist solely for our entertainment. We must remember that behind every performance is a person who experiences joy, pain, triumph, and defeat. Recognizing and respecting their humanity helps create an environment where athletes can pursue their careers without compromising their mental well-being.

Asking for Help

It might seem simple and every country intuitive for us: if you feel depressed and constantly struggle, you just ask for heldon’tt as we discussed before, athletes don’t usually have the privilege of being vulnerable.

What Stops Athletes from Asking for Help?

Despite the importance of seeking help, several barriers often prevent athletes from doing so. One significant obstacle is the stigma attached to mental health within the sports community.

We have made a narrative where sports players and athletes are not supposed to be sad; they are the ones that should be strong and help our community. Social norms and community pressure will stop them from asking to be helped. Many athletes fear that admitting they’re struggling mentally will be seen as a sign of weakness, negatively affecting their reputation and career.

They’re often expected to ‘push through’ difficulties, leading many to believe they should handle their mental health issues alone.

Overcoming the Barrier

Seeking help is not an admission of weakness but rather a sign of strength and self-awareness. It shows that the athlete recognizes their struggles and is proactive in addressing them. By seeking help, athletes can not only improve their mental health but also enhance their performance and extend their careers.

Furthermore, when high-profile athletes openly seek help for mental health issues, it sends a powerful message to others who may be struggling in silence. It can help to break down the stigma around mental health in sports, encouraging more athletes to seek the help they need.

What Can We Do?

Creating a healthier and more supportive sports environment involves multiple strategies that can help athletes manage pressure. If you are part of any sports community, have friends and family in the atheist realm, or are within your ability to contribute, here are some things you can do

Encourage Open Conversations About Mental Health in sports

Creating an environment where mental health is openly discussed can help break down the stigma associated with it. Athletes should feel comfortable talking about their struggles or concerns without fear of judgment or repercussions.

Provide Access to Mental Health Resources

Coaches, teams, and sports organizations should provide access to mental health professionals who specialize in working with athletes. These experts can offer tools and strategies to help athletes manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.

Prioritize Well-being Over Winning

While competition is a fundamental part of sports, the well-being of athletes should always come first. Coaches and parents can help create this culture by emphasizing effort, personal improvement, and enjoyment of the sport over winning at all costs.

Foster a Supportive Environment

Teammates, coaches, and fans play a significant role in an athlete’s experience. By promoting a supportive and respectful environment, we can help athletes feel valued and understood, reducing the pressure they might feel.

Promote Balanced Lifestyles

Spathlete’stournaments can´t be the only thing in an athlete’s life; sure, they can be one of the most important, but not the sole reason for their existence.

Encourage athletes to pursue interests outside of their sport. This balance can help athletes cope with stress, prevent burnout, and provide them with a broader identity beyond their athletic roles.

Provide Education

Train coaches, parents, and athletes about the signs of mental distress and the importance of seeking help when needed. This education can equip them with the knowledge to handle these situations effectively.

Celebrate Resilience and Coping Skills

Instead of just celebrating victories and achievements, we should also acknowledge the importance of resilience, coping skills, and personal growth. Thiit’sift in focus can help athletes understand that it’s okay to face challenges and that overcoming these is a victory in itself.

The Nebraska Greats Foundation and The Importance of Mental Health in Sports

The Nebraska Greats Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to former athletes and ex-athletes from Nebraska’s colleges and universities who face medical challenges.

Thanks to this support, we can alleviate some of the mental health issues that Nebraska athletes are going through during their recovery process.

If you know of an athlete friend or athlete family member that needs access to specific treatments and services, let us know to potentially alleviate some of the stress that comes from having a health condition.

With your help, we can make the Nebraska sports scene a safer place for our community athletes. Wondering how to help? Donate today or reach out to us.

If you are struggling with mental health and depression, help is readily available. Reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or use the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

Volleyball Night in Nebraska: The event of the year

Posted on May 19, 2023March 7, 2024 by Julia Genoves

Volleyball Night in Nebraska

The Nebraska Greats Foundation (NGF) and Farmers Mutual Insurance are proud to announce “Volleyball Night in Nebraska,” an extraordinary evening celebrating the success of Nebraska volleyball, scheduled for August 12, 2023, at the Rococo Theater in Lincoln, Nebraska.

This historic event will feature Justine Wong-Orantes, Kelsey Robinson, and Jordan Larson, Olympic gold medalists and former Husker Volleyball standouts, who led the US team to its first-ever Olympic Gold in the 2020 Tokyo Games.

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About The Volleyball Night in Nebraska

The event, sponsored by Farmers Mutual Insurance, will include live and mobile bidding auction items and appearances by athletes served by the NGF, an organization providing assistance to Nebraska-based letter-winning athletes facing medical, substance abuse, and financial challenges.

This dinner event is a key highlight in a series of volleyball activities involving the University of Nebraska Lincoln, University of Nebraska Omaha, University of Nebraska Kearney, and Wayne State College, set to take place this August.

Among these, a monumental volleyball event at Memorial Stadium stands out, an occasion that saw tickets sell out within just three days. This underscores the enormous popularity and statewide support for volleyball in Nebraska.

“We’re thrilled to host these esteemed athletes, along with Coach John Cook, for an informal Q&A session,” said Jim Rose, NGF Executive Director. “This is a unique opportunity for fans to engage with their volleyball heroes.”

The state’s fervor for the sport has even caught the attention of Governor Jim Pillen, who will issue a special proclamation in recognition of volleyball’s significant impact on Nebraska.

Head Coach John Cook expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming month of volleyball, stating, “This is going to be a monumental month for volleyball in Nebraska. We’re not only dreaming big but achieving big, fostering a true statewide celebration of the sport we all love.”

NGF Executive Director, Jim Rose, stated, “Our gratitude extends to all our generous sponsors, including NRG Media (B107 FM), Olsson and Associates, WarHorse Casino, and Two Brother’s Creative. Their support is pivotal in making this celebration of Nebraska volleyball a reality.”

Adding to the excitement, the 2023 Husker Volleyball team will be present, along with approximately 400 area youth volleyball players and their parents.

Farmers Mutual Insurance CEO, Mark Walz, echoed these sentiments, expressing his company’s pleasure in supporting the NGF event. “We have a great love for the State of Nebraska, Husker Women’s Volleyball, and the mission of the Nebraska Greats Foundation. It’s our honor to support this event.”

Olympian Jordan Larson added, “I’m excited to join the Nebraska Greats Foundation. It’s an honor for me to not only have represented the USA but also Nebraska around the world. Looking forward to seeing you all soon.”

GET YOUR TICKETS

Tickets for this unforgettable night are available HERE. Proceeds from the event will go directly to the Nebraska Greats Foundation, benefiting former collegiate letter-winning athletes in need.

Join us for a night of celebration, camaraderie, and support for our Nebraska athletes.

For more information about the Nebraska Greats Foundation, click here or follow the Nebraska Greats Foundation on Facebook.

About the Nebraska Greats Foundation

The Nebraska Greats Foundation provides financial assistance to former letter-winning athletes from any of Nebraska’s 16 four-year colleges and universities facing medical and financial challenges. The Foundation is a recognized 501(c)3 organization.

Media Contact/Request High-Resolution Files

Jim Rose, Executive Director

jrose@negreats.org

College of Saint Mary Athletics

Posted on April 21, 2023May 2, 2023 by Matt Tompkins

College of Saint Mary Athletics

The College of Saint Mary stands out as the only Catholic university for women in the region. It is dedicated to cultivating an environment that encourages potential and fosters leadership among its students.

Saint Mary, Located in Omaha, has a rich history of Empowering Women through their academics and athletics programs.

Empowering Women at the College of Saint Mary

A Rich History of Female Education

The College of Saint Mary was established in 1923 in Omaha, Nebraska. It was founded by the Sisters of Mercy and was the first all women’s college in the state. Today, the university offers a comprehensive array of academic programs and majors to its diverse student body.

Small Campus, Big Opportunities

The College of Saint Mary has a small student population. This creates a welcoming and intimate atmosphere which helps each student to succeed. This close-knit environment, coupled with devoted faculty members, ensures individualized attention and mentorship in any academic subject.

Engaging Campus Life

The College of Saint Mary is committed to providing a fulfilling college experience by offering a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs.

The school is well known for celebrating cultural diversity through events such as Diversity Week and invites renowned guest speakers from around the globe.

College of Saint Mary Flames

Competing in the Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC), an affiliated conference of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The GPAC comprises 12 private, faith-based colleges and universities located in Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, and North Dakota.

The College of Saint Mary competes in 11 varsity sports.

Fall sports feature cross country, soccer, and volleyball, while winter sports consist of basketball, bowling, dance, and swimming. Spring sports include golf, softball, track & field, and tennis.

Every student at the College of Saint Mary has access to top-notch facilities and skilled coaches who help them reach their full potential.

Values such as integrity, sportsmanship, and respect are emphasized. This helps student-athletes to succeed in their respective leagues. It also allows them to create long-lasting legacies within the campus community.

The College of Saint Mary offers a unique educational experience for women, providing a supportive environment that encourages personal growth, academic success, and strong leadership skills.

With a rich history, engaging campus life, and competitive athletics, the College of Saint Mary truly stands out as a premier institution for female empowerment.

Nebraska Greats Foundation

If you are a current or former college athlete letter-winner and need medical or financial assistance, the Nebraska Greats Foundation is here to help you just like we’ve helped all of our recipients from all 16 colleges in Nebraska, including Wayne State College. CLICK HERE to apply for help and CLICK HERE to refer an athlete needing care so we can help.

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Chadron State Athletics

Posted on April 21, 2023May 2, 2023 by Matt Tompkins

Chadron State Athletics

Chadron State College (CSC) is a well-known public institution in Chadron, Nebraska.

Since 1911, it has offered quality education and a strong athletic program. With an enrollment of 3,000 students, CSC fosters an inclusive and engaging environment for student athletes to grow academically and athletically.

CSC’s athletic program is a point of pride for the college community, with a history of conference championships and deep playoff runs.

The community feel of CSC and a commitment to academic excellence are balanced by the high caliber of the athletic programs, making for an unparalleled student-athlete experience.

Chadron State Eagles

CSC is a member of the NCAA Division II and the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC).

It offers various sports programs for both male and female student-athletes. Currently, CSC sponsors 12 varsity sports, such as football, basketball, wrestling, track and field, cross country, golf, softball, and volleyball.

Chadron State Football Team Success

The football team at Chadron State College is one of its most notable athletic programs.

With a rich history since 1911, the Eagles have won multiple RMAC championships and made several appearances in the NCAA Division II playoffs.

The team is known for its strong defensive and offensive units and enjoys unwavering support from the CSC community, evident in packed stands at home games.

Notable football alumni who went on to the NFL include Garrett Gilkey, Danny Woodhead and Don Beebe.

Basketball Teams’ Achievements

CSC’s basketball teams also have a strong reputation within the RMAC. Both men’s and women’s teams have enjoyed successful seasons, with the women’s team winning the conference championship in the 2018-2019 season.

The Eagles’ basketball players’ dedication to hard work, teamwork, and sportsmanship has led to on-court success and a positive college atmosphere.

Wrestling Program Excellence

The wrestling program at CSC is a consistent force within the RMAC, producing many All-Americans and conference champions over the years. The wrestling team ranks high in regional and national standings, showcasing its athletes’ and coaching staff’s strength.

Chadron State’s commitment to excellence is evident in its facilities, such as the state-of-the-art wrestling room and strength and conditioning center.

Chadron State Individual Sports Achievements

In addition to team sports, CSC excels in individual sports like track and field, cross country, and golf. The college’s track and field and cross country teams have produced numerous conference champions and All-American athletes. Many have gone on to compete nationally.

CSC’s golf program is also a strong RMAC contender, with both men’s and women’s teams consistently ranking in the top tier of conference competition.

Factors Contributing to Success

The success of Chadron State College’s athletic programs can be attributed to dedicated student-athletes and experienced coaching staff passionate about guiding their teams.

The college features state-of-the-art facilities like the Nelson Physical Activity Center, Armstrong Gymnasium, and Don Beebe Stadium, providing student-athletes with the resources needed to excel in their sports.

Athletics, Personal Growth, and Academics

At CSC, athletics are about more than just winning games and breaking records. They also focus on fostering personal growth, academic achievement, and community engagement.

Student-athletes are encouraged to balance athletic commitments with academic pursuits, and the college offers numerous resources and support services to help them succeed in both areas.

Lasting Impact and Community

Chadron State College’s athletic programs have played a crucial role in shaping the college’s identity and fostering a sense of community among students, faculty, and alumni.

Through their commitment to excellence, sportsmanship, and personal growth, CSC’s student-athletes have significantly impacted the college and the surrounding community. The Eagles’ athletic programs continue to be a source of pride for Chadron State College and its supporters.

Chadron State College’s athletic programs have a rich history of success, driven by dedicated student-athletes, experienced coaching staff, and state-of-the-art facilities.

The Eagles’ legacy extends beyond winning games and breaking records, as it also emphasizes personal growth, academic achievement, and community engagement.

With a commitment to excellence, sportsmanship, and a supportive environment, Chadron State College continues to be a beacon of athletic achievement and a source of pride for its community, inspiring future generations of student-athletes to pursue greatness both on and off the field.

Nebraska Greats Foundation

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University of Nebraska Omaha A Pillar Of Progress

Posted on April 21, 2023February 5, 2024 by Matt Tompkins

University of Nebraska Omaha

Founded in 1908 as Omaha University, the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) has grown to become a renowned four-year state university nestled in Omaha, Nebraska.

The institution was christened as the public Municipal University of Omaha in 1931, and assumed its current name in 1968 when it became part of the University of Nebraska system.

UNO Today

Since the 1930s, UNO adopted Adult Education and Continuing Studies programs that were cutting edge and progressive for the time, focusing on lifelong learning. This innovative mindset has positioned UNO as one of the best schools in the Midwest today; with strong academic values and modern programs, UNO has transformed and improved its community on a local, regional, national, and international level.

Established over a century ago in 1908, the University of Nebraska Omaha has remained committed to its community roots partnering with a wide array of local businesses, educational institutions, government entities, and civic organizations to build a better country.

Currently, UNO focuses on addressing real-life issues, providing relevant learning opportunities that uniquely prepare their graduates as professionals and active members of their community.

UNO’s hard work and innovative programs have brought significant recognition to the university: on January 13, 2016, Barack Obama visited UNO Nebraska, bringing over 10,000 people, filling UNO’s Baxter Arena to hear the ex-president speak.

University of Nebraska Omaha: Go Mavericks!

Apart from its academic achievements, UNO stands out for its Athletics program. The mission of the University of Nebraska Omaha Athletic Department is to provide its student-athletes with a positive and competitive academic and athletic experience that will prepare them for lifelong achievements and success.

The Omaha Mavericks represent UNO in 15 NCAA Division I sports, competing in both the NCHC and Summit League conferences.

The university’s ice hockey, basketball, and volleyball teams all compete in Baxter Arena, situated on the university’s Center Campus.

Connie Claussen Field, inaugurated in 2021, hosts the softball team, while the baseball team graces Tal Anderson Field. Both of these fields are part of Maverick Park, situated west of Baxter Arena.

The hockey team achieved national acclaim in 2015 when they advanced to the national semifinal (Frozen Four) of the NCAA tournament for the first time.

University of Nebraska Omaha Athletic History

UNO has a rich history in the North Central Conference and joined the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association on July 1, 2008, following the dissolution of the NCC. In March 2011, the school announced plans to transition from Division II to Division I and join The Summit League. As a result, the university discontinued its football and wrestling programs to align with The Summit League’s sports offerings and maintain Title IX compliance.

Wrestling stands out as one of the school’s most successful sports with national championships in 1991, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, and 2011. The football team also boasts a robust history with multiple conference championships and several NCAA Division II tournament appearances.

Marlin Briscoe, the first black starting quarterback in modern American professional football, was a UNO athlete from 1964–1967. Several former Maverick football players have made it to the NFL, including Zach Miller, Kenny Onatolu, and Greg Zuerlein. As part of its Division I move, Omaha introduced men’s soccer and men’s golf, both sponsored by The Summit League. The hockey program transitioned to the new NCHC starting with the 2013–14 season.

The university’s softball team, known then as the Maverettes, clinched UNO’s first team national championship in the 1975 AIAW Women’s College World Series by defeating Northern Iowa 6–4. The team participated in ten of the first eleven Women’s College World Series from 1969–1979, with the exception of 1974.

The women’s soccer team (2005), softball team (2001), and wrestling team have claimed NCAA’s Division II national championships, the latter emerging as seven-time national champions (1991, 2004–06, 2009–11).

Nebraska Greats Foundation UNO Recipient

Rocco Gonnella, born in Syracuse, NY, played as a Quaterback for the University of Nebraska Omaha football team from 1967 to 1969. During his time as a Maverick, he showcased his skills and led the team to essential victories.

In 2021 Rocco faced various medical challenges related to end-of-life issues, including Parkinson’s Disease, diabetes, and dementia. These illnesses required around-the-clock nursing care at a Senior Assisted Living facility, reliable transportation to medical appointments, and a consistent medication regimen.

Fortunately, NGF could support his Medicare benefits and assisted living thanks to the NGF grant. Rocco has received support from the foundation, allowing him to have a better life quality and peace of mind for himself and his loved ones.

Nebraska Greats

The Nebraska Greats Foundation (NGF) is a nonprofit organization that aims to support former University athletes facing medical financial difficulties. Founded in 2014, the foundation is committed to providing immediate and long-term assistance to those who have contributed to the Nebraska varsity athletic legacy.

Since its establishment, the Nebraska Greats Foundation has supported over 30 athletes, including those who played for UNO and other university sports like football, soccer, softball, tennis, and many others. By helping athletes confront their challenges, the NGF empowers them to move forward with their lives and continue to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

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University of Nebraska at Kearney A Century-Long Legacy

Posted on April 21, 2023May 31, 2023 by Matt Tompkins

University of Nebraska at Kearney

At its beginnings, the Kearney State Normal was one of the six normal schools established by the state to provide teaching training.

Today UNK has evolved into an institution that offers students more than 90 undergraduate programs and 14 graduate degrees across three colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business and Technology, and Education.

University of Nebraska at Kearney Historical Footsteps

In March 1903, the Nebraska State Legislature allotted $50,000 to construct a normal school in western Nebraska. Later in September, the State Board of Education approved Kearney’s proposition of 20 acres and Green Terrace Hall on the city’s western edge to be the site.

The cornerstone of the inaugural building was laid on October 18, 1904, and the school began offering its first classes in Kearney public school facilities during the summer of 1905. The campus classes commenced in the fall as the construction was underway. The freshman class was composed solely of women, with Men’s Hall being established as the first residence hall for male students.

The institution underwent a name change to Nebraska State Teachers College in 1921 and became Kearney State College in 1963, both reflecting system-wide alterations for the state colleges.

A legislative act in 1989 transitioned the institution from the Nebraska State College System to the University of Nebraska system. Following a Nebraska Supreme Court review, Kearney State College became the University of Nebraska at Kearney on July 1, 1991. Prior to this affiliation with the University of Nebraska, Kearney State was often informally referred to as “K State”, a nickname shared with Kansas State University.

UNK Today

With over 11,000 students enrolled from more than 20 countries worldwide, UNK offers a diverse student body and an enriching learning experience.

The university has achieved several nationally-recognized programs in areas such as nursing, engineering, and technology. In addition to its academic offerings, UNK also provides numerous opportunities for internships and study abroad experiences for its students, hoping to create responsible and cultural citizens.

University of Nebraska at Kearney Athletics: Go Lopers!

The athletic teams of the University of Nebraska at Kearney, known as the Nebraska–Kearney Lopers, represent the university in intercollegiate sports. They compete in the Division II level of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), primarily in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) for the majority of their sports since the 2012–13 academic year. The women’s swimming and diving team competes in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).

The Lopers had previous stints in the D-II Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) from 1994–95 to 2011–12, and in the Central States Intercollegiate Conference (CSIC) of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) from 1976–77 to 1988–89.

UNK fields 17 intercollegiate varsity sports teams. Men participate in basketball, cross country, football, tennis, track & field (indoor and outdoor), and wrestling. Women’s sports include basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, swimming & diving, tennis, track & field (indoor and outdoor), and volleyball.

Over a century since its inception, the University of Nebraska at Kearney remains a beacon of academic excellence and athletic prowess within the University of Nebraska system.

Each of these programs envisions and works to create a Division II athletic experience for every student-athlete without any discrimination. UNK Athletics stands in solidarity and unity with student-athletes of color, Latin and international students, LGBTQIA+ students, and students from other marginalized groups in opposition to racism and prejudice in any form.

Hall Peterson

Peterson Hall, a former Loper from UNK, survived a near-fatal automobile accident in 2020; because of this, he had to spend 20 days in the hospital before starting months of intense physical therapy.

This terrible accident was a heavy shock for him and his family, but thankfully, and with your help, the Nebraska Greats Foundation (NGF) assisted Hall with the insurance deductible.

Nebraska Greats Foundation

The Nebraska Greats Foundation is dedicated to helping and celebrating student-athletes from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and other institutions who have contributed to our community.

Since 2014, NGF has gathered donations and funds to help those athletes in medical need as a way to give back and recognize the tremendous effort these alumni and graduates pour into their everyday life.

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Creighton University Athletics

Posted on April 21, 2023May 31, 2023 by Matt Tompkins

Creighton University A Symbol of Excellence

Situated in Omaha, Nebraska, Creighton University stands as a symbol of excellence, deeply rooted in Catholic tradition and Jesuit principles.

Nestled on a scenic 135-acre campus, Creighton is a stone’s throw from downtown Omaha, allowing students to enjoy the tranquility of a college environment while still being connected to the hustle and bustle of city life. Committed to upholding its Jesuit reputation for academic superiority, Creighton emphasizes on crafting meaningful student experiences both in and outside of the lecture hall.

Creighton University History

Founded in 1878, this institution is dedicated to the pursuit of truth guided by the living tradition of the Catholic Church. With a rich academic excellence and community service history, Creighton University is a hidden gem of the Midwest.

This School, named after the successful businessman Edward Creighton, is one of the 28 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S.

Creighton offers 140 undergraduate and graduate programs, ranging from business to nursing and theology. But what sets Creighton apart from other universities is not only its academic programs but its commitment to social justice and giving back. Students are encouraged to partake in service projects throughout the Nebraska community, trying to impact the world positively.

But how exactly does Creighton measure its community impact?

The Academic Service-Learning programs have given excellent results, including over 1.1 million student service hours and 14 million faculty and staff service hours. Over 15 million annual hours each year and 500 partnerships with local, national, and international organizations to help better service the USA community.

Creighton Athletics: Go Bluejays!

Creighton University is not just about academics. It also holds a strong footing in the world of athletics, with a Division I athletic program that competes in the Big East Conference.

This mindset has helped Creighton to build the strongest teams in Nebraska because it fosters a space where everyone feels safe and cared for: those are the main ingredients for any solid and successful team.

The UC Bluejays have proven time and time again that they have what it takes to come out on top.

Creighton University Built On Success

The university boasts of 16 varsity sports, including baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball. These teams have seen quite a bit of success over the years.

The men’s basketball team, for instance, has made 23 appearances in the NCAA Tournament,

The women’s basketball team has also been to the NCAA Tournament 17 times.

The men’s golf team has taken home the NCAA Championship title twice, in 1982 and 2022, while the men’s soccer team has won the Big East Conference Tournament five times.

Fueling the spirit of these athletic endeavors is the enthusiastic fan base. The men’s basketball team hosts their home games at the CHI Health Center Omaha, accommodating up to 18,000 spectators, while the D.J. Sokol Arena, home to the women’s basketball team, can hold up to 6,800 fans.

Creighton’s athletic program is an integral part of the Omaha’s identity. It instills a sense of pride and achievement in students and plays a crucial role in attracting top-tier students and athletes from across the country.

The excitement and camaraderie fostered by these sports events create unforgettable memories, enhancing the overall Creighton University experience.

Josh Jones history

Josh Jones is an Omaha Central and Bluejay star who had to retire prematurely from varsity Basketball due to a genetic heart condition.

This condition took a toll on his health, and he needed significant surgical procedures and aftercare to improve his quality of life.

Thanks to the Nebraska Greats Foundation Fund, we provided residual co-pays from Jones insurance benefits. Nowadays, Josh is still a big Bluejay and a healthy basketball fan.

Nebraska Greats Foundation

The Nebraska Greats Foundation (NGF) is an organization that seeks to make a difference in the lives of former athletes in the state of Nebraska.

The foundation provides financial assistance to athletes who have suffered debilitating injuries or illnesses and can´t afford full medical care. The organization comprises community members passionate about sports and about giving back to athletic talents. NGF is a beacon of hope and kindness for those who have dedicated their lives to athletic excellence.

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UNL Football and sports program

Posted on April 21, 2023March 4, 2024 by Matt Tompkins

UNL Football and sports program

Have you ever felt the electric energy of a college game? What makes us so passionate about cheering for our team? Why do we love UNL Football, basketball, or any Nebraska Huskers games so much? What drives our spirit?

We believe college sports are exciting because they bring together students, faculty, alumni, and fans from across campus and worldwide, creating a thrilling and passionate community. For the University of Nebraska Lincoln (UNL), this community has produced some of the Midwest’s most talented football and basketball athletes.

UNL Husker

Herbie Husker, or as we often call him: “Husker,” is the UNL official mascot, and it’s the character that represents every UNL athlete and fan out there. “Huskers” is a name that means more than just trophies and awards. In this blog, we will delve beyond the gold medals and into how the UNL shapes students’ lives for the better.

The UNL is a public research university located in Lincoln, Nebraska, Founded in 1869. The UNL has become one of the leading universities in the Midwest for its athletic program. From football games at Memorial Stadium to basketball tournaments at Pinnacle Bank Arena, UNL provides fun and dynamic spaces for students and community to get together.

Any Huskers program aims to recruit and develop students and guide them to achieve the highest level in academics, athletics, and life, all served by hard-working professionals looking to make Nebraska athletics elite.

UNL Athletic Success

Integrity, trust, respect, teamwork, and loyalty: These values are not just filler words but the foundation for the campus community. By having these core values at the center of each interaction, the university creates a strong team of athletes that can succeed beyond any sport. These values allow the Huskers students to be accountable and respectable humans for the rest of their lives.

For the University of Nebraska Lincoln, success is more than just winning games. For coaches, teachers, and directors, students’ well-being is the top priority, so they make sure all athletes receive the support they need to thrive in all areas of their academic and personal lives.

From the many accomplishments UNL Huskers have made throughout the years, we can highlight the 29 national titles in school history and five national championships in football. Husker teams have also won eight national titles in men’s gymnastics, eight in women’s bowling, five in women’s volleyball, and three in women’s indoor track and field.

These achievements are impressive, but where do we stand in all of this? What do WE give back to these fantastic people who have done so much for the sports community?

At the Nebraska Greats Foundation (NGF), we wish to give back to all people that have invested years of their life into making the UNL the strong sports school it is today; that is why the NGF is always looking for former athletes that need our help to improve their quality of life through medical funding or assistance.

Anthony Branch

Anthony, a former UNL Football player, moved from Idaho to Lincoln because he believed in Coach Tom Osborne and the University of Nebraska. He poured his heart and soul into the Huskers team until he earned a wingback spot on the roster. Since then, Branch has stayed close with his Huskers teammates and coaches.

After a long and satisfactory football career playing for the University of Nebraska, he is now a dedicated and caring father and grandfather; however, he was hit with Polycystic Kidney Disease, a hereditary condition that threatened to take his health down a dark road.

This disease causes cysts to develop around the kidneys, resulting in function loss over the years. This did not stop Anthony from continuing his joyful life. With help from the Nebraska Graets Foundations, he received the assistance he needed to cover his medical expenses.

Larry Florence

Larry was a UNL Basketball standout performer in the late ’90s. In his senior season, Florence was the only Husker to start all 30 games and led Nebraska in scoring at 13.0 points per game. All his hard work throughout the years regarded him to the title of Husker Power Male Athlete of the Year in 1999.

After a long and successful career in Basketball, Larry faced one of his life’s toughest opponents: cancer. It was a brutal fight, but he wasn’t alone. At the NGF, we could help him with travel expenses for the treatment he needed away from home. With this support, Larry was able to focus on his health and keep fighting his battle.

Nebraska Greats Foundation

At the Nebraska Greats Foundation, we recognize the great labor students and graduates put in daily to make the Huskers a top team. We know the huge lengths athletes will go to be the best of the best; we know how much time is invested in their bodies and mind.

Our mission is simple: we want to be there for people when they need us the most. So, join us in making a difference!

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