Coach Rob Williams: President's Recognition of Lady Bears Sheds Light on Deeper Importance of Basketball

PHILADELPHIA, PA, September 12, 2012

It is far from uncommon for a sitting President of the United States to take the time to honor the special achievements of American citizens, even civilians. In 2012 alone, President Obama has offered special recognition to such figures as singer/songwriter Bob Dylan and author Toni Morrison, to say nothing of a long list of other individuals, many of them non-celebrities. Recently, the president--a known basketball fan--met and honored the reigning NCAA Women's Basketball champions, Baylor University's Lady Bears. The special ceremony was noteworthy for President Obama's recognition of the team's achievements both on the court and off, and it won the attention of men's basketball coach Rob Williams.

The impetus for the Lady Bears' honor was their victory in the NCAA championship game, a victory that came on the heels of a perfect 40-0 season. In the ceremony, however, President Obama honored them for reasons beyond their athletic ability. He also noted the team's commitment to volunteerism and work within the community.

This volunteer spirit was exemplified by the presence of Hayley Klepper, a wheelchair-bound 10-year-old who suffers from a rare disorder. Klepper was taken under wing by the Lady Bears, who spent time mentoring and encouraging her, even inviting her to the presidential ceremony. Her presence at the event drew the attention of President Obama, who paused to meet Klepper and her family.

The presidential honor won the attention of many college basketball fans, including men's basketball coach Rob Williams. Coach Williams has responded to the event with a new press statement, noting the deeper impact hat basketball can have on young lives.

"The Baylor Lady Bears exemplify what is right with college athletics," says Coach Rob Williams in his statement to the press. "The Lady Bears collectively serve the community, feeding the homeless and helping others as well as the nation as a whole, all while traveling during the off and pre-seasons."

Like President Obama, Coach Rob Williams has nothing but praise for Baylor's team. "They have an unblemished record both on and off the court," he confirms. "We can learn many of life's lesson through sports if we understand the rich opportunities that sports provide--and Baylor's Lady Bears serve as a shining example."

Baylor's Coach Kim Mulkey, meanwhile, is the woman who introduced Hayley to the team. She offers a similar take to that of Coach Rob Williams, saying "It put basketball in perspective, and it put some of [the players'] lives in perspective." Continues Mulkey, "There's more to life than just basketball, and sometimes we need to meet the Haleys of the world to realize that."

ABOUT:

Coach Rob Williams is an athletic enthusiast and educator with years of experience coaching boys' and men's basketball at many different competitive levels. In addition to his work as a coach, Williams has taught Physical Education, and also served as a substitute teacher and a high school guidance counselor. Coach Williams is passionate about the positive impact that sports can have on the lives of young people.

Website: http://coachrobwilliams.com/