2023.03 -- US Storybook 2022 updated 4.14 - Flipbook - Page 45
want to go, you know, like some that have played college ball already. So they were
able to speak to them and, you know, shed some light on their journey and experiences.
“One of the nights [Sharon] came to one of the runs – and like they always select like
a player of the night. And so [Sharron] saw that I had got player of the night a couple
of times. He was like, ‘Yo, like, I’m going to get player of the night tonight’. I’m like, I
hear you, make it happen. And when he came, we ended up getting player of the night
together.”
“So I think those are always good ways where it’s easy to build trust and relationships,
like when you can invite the kids into a more personal part of our own lives. I think
that meant a lot to them – me inviting them to these runs that were off hours that
weren’t about programming and it was just like, Coach Matt, you know, is inviting you
all to come play ball.”
And perhaps as if the gift of mentorship weren’t enough, Matt realizes the importance
of sustaining purpose and sense of self. That’s where “God’s Purpose For Your Life”
comes in, a book filled with words of inspiration or encouragement for the day. The
same book that he shared with Sharron to support his journey is one he proudly
gifts to people in his life who may need to read it. “The book is about purpose, like
attempting to find or stay in tune with your purpose in life”.
Matt’s expression of mentorship doesn’t simply stop with Javonn and Sharron,
however. When he met Omarion, he was adamant about learning more about
Omarion’s interests and determining how he could use his resources to position this
particular young person for success. “He made a strong impression on me because
Omarion was always quick to volunteer…definitely a model participant, you know,
PEACEPLAYERS UNITED STATES STORYBOOK
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