Albany State football promotes reading at Radium Springs

Saff Reports

ALBANY — Members of the Albany State football program traded helmets for books Friday morning, spending time reading to students at Radium Springs Elementary as part of Read Across America Day.

Golden Rams coaches, administrators and student-athletes visited classrooms from 9 to 11 a.m., reading with students and talking about the importance of literacy, education and setting goals beyond athletics.

For Marcus Kendrick, Albany State’s assistant athletics director for compliance and student-athlete success, the event reflected the broader role student-athletes can play in their communities.

“Being able to step into the classroom and connect with students through reading is special,” Kendrick said. “Our student-athletes understand that their platform goes beyond the field. Moments like this allow them to show young people that education, character and community matter.”

The visit was organized with the help of Radium Springs instructional literacy coach Shemeka Gray, who invited the Golden Rams to participate in the school’s Read Across America celebration.

Gray said the presence of college athletes in the classroom made an immediate impact on the students.

“It meant so much for our students to see college student-athletes in their classrooms,” Gray said. “They were excited, engaged and inspired. Experiences like this help our students see what is possible for their future.”

For Albany State defensive lineman Zha’Lyn Bell, the morning was just as meaningful for the players as it was for the students.

“Seeing the excitement on the kids’ faces when we walked in the room was amazing,” Bell said. “If we can help encourage them to read and dream a little bigger, then it’s time well spent.”

The visit is part of Albany State Athletics’ ongoing efforts to connect with the community while encouraging student-athletes to serve as role models both on and off the field.