Name: Sam Richardson
Sport: Baseball
What does Black History mean to you?
Learning about black history was a major part of my childhood. Black history is one thing that allows me to take pride in understanding and learning from prior generations. Although the struggles they endured were not favorable, I learned how to work hard and never let anyone tell me I am not good enough or can't do what I set my mind to do. People like Jackie Robison and Hank Aaron walked that path for me. They went through racism, and hatred to play the game I love so much--baseball. Those guys are big inspirations to me because without them my dream of playing Major League Baseball (MLB) would be merely a dream instead of an opportunity. Black history has taught me that greatness comes from within and it is not determined by color, but by commitment and determination as well as how important it is to strive to fulfill dreams not just for myself, but for the advancement of future generations.
 
Why do you think it is important to center Black voices in the athletics community?
It is important to center Black voices in the athletics community because sharing various experiences can lead to providing a different perspective from better understanding and a willingness to be heard. Having more black voices brings more confidence to younger black athletes to feel more comfortable to be themselves and know someone truly understands how they feel because the goal of being a part of a team is about unity, teamwork, and equal opportunity based on ability, heart, and talent, and not race. Having a black voice in athletics helps eliminate the feeling of being underrepresented. It models using your voice to lead in sports as well as in life by putting pieces together that builds a valuable community of values on and off the field. For me, it goes back to my experiences playing with MLB Develops and learning from legendary black MLB alumni like Jerry Mannuel, Lou Collier, Howie Kendrick, and many more coaches who taught me how to always make sure every black athlete, not just in baseball, know that it is a blessing and honor to be a black athlete and represent our culture with our chins held high.
 
Can you speak about the importance of being a Black student-athlete at Jax State and how inspirational it is to you and your family?
Being a Black student-athlete at Jax State is important to me because I have an opportunity to earn a degree from a university that is highly accredited as well as play a sport that I love while doing so. The culture at Jax State allows the comfort of being myself, without the pressure trying to please others. The faculty and staff at Jax State have genuine care and concern about student learning. They are very approachable for questions when I don't quite understand something. They have pride in being a part of the Jax State family where the culture is unbreakable. It's inspirational to me because it allows me to be in the position to show younger African American kids that one day they can accomplish what I've accomplished or more and to not let anything get in the way of reaching their goals. As for my family, they are very proud of the young man I've
become and appreciate the culture and high expectations Jax State has for me as a student-athlete. Being a part of Jax State allows me to inspire other African American kids by being an example of working hard to reach goals and dreams by being in the right environment and having positive people around me.
 
What advice do you have for other Black student-athletes looking to follow your path of success?
The advice I would give Black student athletes coming up now is to know your worth. Never let anyone make you feel less than because your culture may be different than theirs. Stay humble and true to the person you are, but understand how to accept constructive criticism that will help you grow as a player and a person. Always work
at being the best version of yourself even when you don't feel like it. Also having great work ethics and discipline in school, on the field and off the field will take you a long way in life as well as sports, which will allow you to have fun playing the game you love. Also, go to a school where you truly want and can grow as a student -athlete. It does not have to be the big-name school, just somewhere you know you will be the most comfortable and locked in to better help yourself in the long run as a student and an athlete. 
 
Name: Aria Davis
Sport: Softball
What does Black History mean to you?
To me it represents more than just a month. It means recognizing the struggles and achievements of Black history. It's about honoring and understanding the injustices they faced in the past and how those events shaped our future.

Why do you think it is important to center Black voices, in the athletics community?
It's important because it makes sure, we are heard, respected and included. Black athletes have often faced unfair treatment and have been overlooked. So, listening to our voices creates a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

Can you speak about the importance of being a Black student-athlete at Jax State and how inspirational it is to you and your family?
Being a Black student athlete at Jax State is meaningful because, it truly shows the hard work and dedication that I've put in since I was 4. It's inspirational because it proves that we as African Americans belong at every high level. For my family, their belief in me pushes me to keep going every day and being able to represent Jax State is a huge source of pride for all of us. It's also inspirational because the success that I have isn't just mine, it's a reflection of all the sacrifices they made for me.

What advice do you have for other Black student-athletes looking to follow your path of success?
My advice to other Black student-athletes is to believe in yourself and your abilities, even when others may doubt you. Stay focused on your goals, take care of yourself mentally and physically, and don't be afraid to ask for help or lean on your support system. Remember that your journey is your own, and your success comes from hard work, resilience, and staying true to who you are.