Austin Peay State University’s men’s basketball team is set to launch a new summer initiative called Beyond the Court, a four‑week program that blends life‑skills training with mentorship for a select group of young men.
A Community‑Driven Initiative
Developed by Dr. Kristal McGreggor, the Associate AD for Student‑Athlete Success & Strategic Initiatives, the program receives a $6,000 Helper Grant from the Nashville Predators Foundation and is carried out in partnership with the Montgomery County Juvenile Court.
Running from July 9 through July 31, the effort will serve exactly 15 participants, guiding them through topics such as leadership, accountability, communication, emotional wellness and future planning.
Coach Corey Gipson, head men’s basketball coach at Austin Peay, underscored the importance of stepping beyond the hardwood to invest in the community, stating that the program reflects the team’s commitment to service and personal development.
Dr. McGreggor expressed gratitude to the Predators Foundation and the array of community partners that made the project possible, highlighting the collective effort required to create meaningful opportunities for youth.
The program culminates with a celebration on July 31, marking not only the completion of a curriculum but also the emergence of a cohort that now sees possibilities extending far beyond the basketball court.