DURHAM, N.C. – North Carolina Central University held its first civility training initiative for student-athletes at McDougald-McLendon Arena this week. The event reinforced what they learned at an early age – sportsmanship.
In an era where taunting and bad conduct have become more prevalent in sports, the timing was perfect for the initiative.
"It was something that was definitely needed," said Destiny Faison, a sophomore track & field student-athlete. "The word is out that this needs to be talked about. My mom has always taught me to turn the other cheek. This program confirmed that what I was taught is the right way."
The NCCU Department of Athletics and School of Business teamed up to host the event, which lasted approximately 1½ hours. The student-athletes split into groups to discuss various topics such as teamwork, integrity and positive relationships with teammates, opponents, students and coaches.
Thandi Nesbit, president of the NCCU SHRM Student Chapter which prepared and moderated the event, says the initiative extends beyond sports. SHRM, which stands for Society of Human Resources Management, promotes civility in the workplace.
An article on the SHRM website said that workplace incivility is expected to worsen in 2025 according to 44 percent of the U.S. workers.
"When you are playing a sport or doing anything in life and representing a school, you have to keep your composure," Nesbit said. "The current state that the world is in, even though someone may say something disrespectful to you, you do not have to get your one back. Sometimes that doesn't result in good things and sometimes it can cost you your life. In the corporate world, it can cost you your job. It's bigger than someone disrespecting you."
Among collegiate institutions, NCCU is a catalyst when it comes to preaching sportsmanship and civility in athletics. The Department of Athletics and School of Business plan to build off the success of Tuesday's initiative.
"North Carolina Central believes in treating others with respect in athletics," said NCCU Director of Athletics Dr. Louis "Skip" Perkins.
"It is important for student-athletes to not only get along with one other and other athletes but to build relationships that are outside of sports," added Dr. Angela Miles, the NCCU Department Chair of Business Administration.
