Heart of Kentucky: A.W. Hamilton, Coach at Eastern Kentucky University, Finds Deeper Meaning Beyond Victory in Team Management
Under the guidance of Coach A.W. Hamilton, the Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) men's basketball team is not just making waves on the court, but also in the community. The team's commitment to service has been evident in various community projects, fostering a strong bond between the university and local residents.
One of the team's most notable endeavours was their participation in the Feed My Starving Children Mobile Pack event, held in collaboration with the Eastside Community Church. During this event, they packed an impressive 186,624 meals for children in need around the world.
Another significant initiative was the renovation of Richmond's Dillingham Park basketball court and playground. This project, part of the "Late Night with the Colonels" events, has transformed the location into a vibrant community hub, bringing people together.
Coach Hamilton's emphasis on the team's role in giving back to the community is evident in these initiatives. His dynamic approach to mentorship, both on and off the court, has inspired many, including former student manager Blake Harris.
Hamilton's players have been actively involved in various service projects, such as leading pep rallies to promote academic performance in local elementary schools, engaging residents of a local assisted living facility with friendly visits, and participating in projects with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, delivering and building beds for children in need.
Hamilton's philosophy is simple: "It's not what you get... it's what you give." This ethos extends beyond the team, with his wife, Chelsea, and the EKU cheerleaders leading acts of service around Richmond.
The team's efforts have not gone unnoticed. Mayor Robert Blythe praised Hamilton for his understanding of the "town and gown" relationship and his efforts to engage the community. Kevin Thornsberry, co-president of the local chapter, praised EKU's players and managers for being "all good, very respectful, helpful." Donna Agee, Executive Director of Dominion Senior Living of Richmond, stated that the visits from Hamilton's team bring unique experiences for residents and are a "big deal" for many.
In seven seasons, Hamilton's program has broken 104 school records, and he has led two of the five winningest teams in the program's history. However, it's the team's impact off the court that truly sets them apart. Through service projects, the team is not just teaching valuable life lessons, but also benefiting the local community.
Turner Buttry, a player under Hamilton, believes that players have a big platform and should use it to spread positivity off the court. This ethos is shared by Hamilton, who encourages his players to participate in service projects, understanding that they are role models for the community.
In a world where sports often focus on competition and personal gain, Coach A.W. Hamilton and his team at Eastern Kentucky University are a shining example of the power of giving back. Their commitment to service is a testament to their character and a source of inspiration for many.
- The Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) men's basketball team, under Coach A.W. Hamilton, is not only excelling in sports-betting and the NBA, but also making significant impacts in the community.
- They have participated in various events, such as the Feed My Starving Children Mobile Pack, where they packed meals for children globally, and the renovation of Dillingham Park basketball court and playground.
- Coach Hamilton's players are involved in education-and-self-development and personal-growth initiatives, like leading pep rallies in schools, visiting assisted living facilities, and partnering with Sleep in Heavenly Peace.
- Hamilton's philosophy emphasizes personal-growth and giving back to the community, which extends to his wife, Chelsea, and the EKU cheerleaders who lead acts of service around Richmond.
- Mayor Robert Blythe and local community leaders have acknowledged the team's contributions, praising their role in fostering a strong "town and gown" relationship.
- Turner Buttry, a player under Hamilton, believes that players should use their platforms to spread positivity in the community, aligning with Hamilton's encouragement for his players to engage in service projects as role models.
