CSC Voices: Why We Belong is provided by the CSC Inclusion Committee
Balancing College Athletics Careers and Parenting: Support Systems, Schedules, and Being Present
Kendrell Watkins hosts the CSC Voices “We Belong” podcast with inclusion committee members Hamilton Cook (MAAC associate commissioner, vice chair) and Drew Dickerson (Atlantic 10 assistant commissioner) to discuss managing family life while working in college athletics. They describe starting their careers with young children, relying on strong support systems (spouses, parents, extended family, neighbors, and colleagues), and adapting to long hours, travel, and constant communication demands. Key challenges include scheduling as children grow older and staying intentional about attending important moments, using technology like FaceTime when travel prevents being there. They share memories of involving kids in the job through Bring Your Child to Workday and tournament help. Their advice to young professionals emphasizes setting boundaries, valuing time with family, communicating, leaning on staff, and remembering most tasks can wait.
00:00 Welcome and Introductions
00:31 Becoming a Dad in Athletics
01:51 Hamilton Early Parenthood
03:01 Drew Starting with Kids
04:05 Kendrell New Dad Reality
05:29 Managing Work Family Demands
09:09 Building a Support Village
13:42 Hardest Part Scheduling
18:51 Missing Moments Staying Present
22:29 Favorite Family Memories at Work
26:47 Does It Get Easier
29:01 Advice for Young Professionals
34:21 Closing Thanks and Wrap Up
