Current Issues with Dr. Phillips

Oct. 23, 2007

Last week our University received outstanding recognition by the Institute for International Sport, University of Rhode Island. Dr. Loreto Jackson, who coordinates many of our sportsmanship initiatives, provides comment as found below.

In Solid Orange, Terry Don Phillips Director of Athletics

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On October 10, 2007, Clemson University received its second national Sportsmanship recognition in as many years. This time the recognition comes from the prestigious Institute for International Sport (IIS). According to Chris Shea from the IIS, selection for this award is based upon a “clear and strong commitment to a culture of sportsmanship”. The committee making the selection of awardees was also “impressed with schools that are under such great pressure to win but still spend time devoted to sportsmanship”. Clemson University is one of four universities to receive this 2007-2008 recognition. Of interest is the fact that we did not nominate ourselves for this award. It is obvious therefore to those who observe from near, and afar that our actions do in fact “honor our University, traditions, teams, performance, people, and each other”.

The Solid Orange: It’s About Pride initiative, started in 2002, was given momentum by the Presidential appointment of a University/Community taskforce later that year. The challenge issued to the Taskforce by President Barker was to create an “environment that is spirited and fun, but also shows respect for teams, the University and the traditions that make Clemson special”. This insight and leadership continue to fuel this initiative to “reinvigorate the sense of pride and family unity that are the corner posts of Clemson’s philosophy”.

This award, although a tremendous honor, represents more than recognition. It is affirmation that our sportsmanship and civility initiative has shifted from a campaign to a philosophy. Solid Orange is a way of living here at Clemson. The University family should be proud of what it has achieved, and continues to convey on a daily basis.

Go Tigers!

Loreto Jackson, Ph.D. Director of Student-Athlete Performance