Routines change for student athletes as Christmas break begins

MCKENZIE, Tenn. — Christmas break is in full swing for many universities, however, there are some student athletes who are still on campus.

During Christmas break, many students head back home to enjoy the holidays and be with their families, but the basketball season does not take a break. This means that these students are on campus while everything is shut down.

We spoke with both basketball coaches at Bethel University regarding some of the challenges this time of year brings for them and their players.

“Food for sure. 100%. Trying to navigate the best way to make sure we’re getting some food for the guys. When school’s in session and the cafeteria is open then there’s and endless supply when you want to eat,” said Coach Jeff Britt, head men’s coach.

For smaller universities like many of the ones we have locally, community help for the athletes is a big factor each year.

“It’s always been good. We’ve been here 19 years. My wife is a middle school teacher. We have churches that will jump in, the chamber will jump in, and local businesses will donate as well,” said Coach Chris Nelson, head women’s coach.

We know that feeding the team can be tough during Christmas break, but what about entertainment? The constant activities that universities provide everyday are also on a pause.

“We try to travel a little bit. No home games during this time. We just came back from Atlanta. Freed-Hardeman was down there with us. We played dodgeball last week. Just something different to mix it up. We had a Christmas party at our house. We have a rare 10-day break right now. Very rare. But that will give us a little break. Then we’ll come back and travel to Florence to play UNA,” said Nelson.

For some of the athletes that do not live locally, Coach Britt said sometimes they will go home with teammates for the holidays, and they will also plan activities to do around the community.

There is still about a month remaining before campus gets back to normal.

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