KOKOMO, Ind. — Everyone loves an underdog story, especially during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.
Recently, a team of students from Indiana University Kokomo outperformed competitors from other notable institutions like IU Indianapolis and Butler University. They succeeded in a special class organized by the NCAA and the Indiana Sports Corp. as part of March Madness.
Larry Jinkins, an assistant professor in sport and recreation management, noted, “We were the smallest program in the competition and the only NAIA school involved. This win showcases the excellent education our students receive.”
The winning team included students from various backgrounds, demonstrating diverse skills. They had applied for one of the limited spots in the class, which met weekly and included collaborative sessions with students from other universities. Part of their experience involved working as volunteers during the NCAA Final Four in Indianapolis, which opened their eyes to the event’s excitement and logistics.
For Hayden Williamson, volunteering was particularly rewarding. He remarked on meeting fans from all over, stating, “It was amazing to see so much passion for basketball from people who traveled from afar just for this event.”
Jaydi Jones found the class particularly affirming for her career goals. “Connecting with women in the sports industry was eye-opening,” she shared, emphasizing the need for more representation in major events.
The students also appreciated the mentorship from industry leaders, including JoAn Scott, NCAA vice president of men’s basketball. This exposure to seasoned professionals gave them insight into what goes into large-scale sporting events.
Clayton Miller learned the importance of starting from the ground up. “Many successful people in this field started as interns,” he said, suggesting that each role can be a stepping stone to something greater.
The students faced real-world pressures during their final project, where they developed presentations aimed at encouraging college students to volunteer for the NCAA. They were responsible for a comprehensive pitch, creating materials covering everything from reports to videos.
Jinkins expressed pride in his students, appreciating both teams’ efforts. “Either could have held their own against the best from other schools,” he said.
This achievement is a testament not only to their hard work but also to the quality of education they’ve received at IU Kokomo. While they might be a smaller university, their accomplishments demonstrate that dedication and innovation can shine brightly in competitive arenas.
For more on Indiana University Kokomo’s strategic plans for student success, you can check their details here.
