Renowned Broadcaster Tackles Mental Health with College Athletes
Sports journalist Taylor Rooks is making waves with her involvement in LG’s “Transparent Conversations” series. As the host of season two, Rooks travels to different college campuses, fostering open dialogues with student-athletes about mental health and wellness.
“When I heard about Transparent Conversations, it really resonated with me because that’s what I try to do both in my career and in my real life,” Rooks expressed. “Feeling as though you can be vulnerable and open enough to talk about the things that really matter in your life or things that have maybe been bothering you in your life.”
Intergenerational Exchanges Pave the Way
Rooks has already engaged in insightful conversations with NBA All-Star Kenny Anderson, head coach Jerry Stackhouse, and current college players. These intergenerational exchanges tap into the unique challenges student-athletes face, balancing academics, sports, and personal growth.
“It was so insightful to be able to hear a coach be so deeply aware of how he can both positively and negatively impact a student-athlete’s mental health,” Rooks explained, recounting her discussion with Arizona State Head Coach Bobby Hurley.
Holistic Support Systems Emerge
As mental health takes center stage, universities are expanding their support systems for student-athletes. Rooks highlighted the introduction of sports psychologists, mental fitness coaches, and mental trainers, ensuring comprehensive care for athletes’ well-being.
“It’s been really eye-opening and great to see these positive steps that schools have taken to make their athletes feel supported,” Rooks noted.
Identity Beyond Sports
Drawing from her own experiences as a college athlete, Rooks understands the paradigm shift that occurs when sports are no longer the sole focus. She emphasized the importance of rediscovering one’s identity beyond athletics.
“It’s cool that mental health is being talked about so loudly and so proudly,” Rooks stated, “so that the athletes know that they are more than a champion or a winner or somebody who plays soccer or basketball or football – that is just a part of them. It’s an important part. But it’s not the whole part.”
