As The Hidden Opponent kicks off the July 2024 Campus Captains application cycle, a few of our current and former Campus Captains share their experience in the program!
Atley is a racecar driver from Hayes, Virginia, and attends Liberty University's Online Academy. Mental health advocacy is important to him because he belives, and has experienced first-hand, how much mental health can impact an athlete's confidence and consequently, their progress and performance. He believes recognizing and sharing mental health awareness and resources is critical for race car drivers, because although drivers sit solo behind the wheel, he wants to make sure they all know they are not truly alone.
Why did you join the Campus Captain program?
I joined the Campus Captain program so that I could serve as a resource for mental health awareness. My goal was to help provide an environment for others to come together and support each other. I wanted to help others while also improving myself and my own mental health as well.
What has been your favorite part of the program?
It's hard to pick a favorite part of The Hidden Opponent program, but I've especially enjoyed the conversations that have come up because of my participation in the program. The monthly meetings, videos, workshops and events have provided me with many useful tools and strategies that I have now used and can pass along to others.
Can you elaborate on some activities or events you participated in or hosted this year, whether that be at your school or through the THO community?
I participated in several THO events. The "Learning How to Love Yourself" workshop with Dr. Barlow was one of my favorites. It helped me understand how to deal with the pressures I face and place on myself. I hosted an informational pop up booth to help others learn more about the program as well.
What has been your biggest accomplishment as a CC? What positive changes have you seen on your campus through the program?
My biggest accomplishment as a CC is how much knowledge I have gained when it comes to the importance of mental health and how I have been able to recognize my own triggers and implement strategies to help myself and others.
What has been your biggest takeaway from the CC program?
My biggest take away from the CC program is learning how to focus on controlling the controllables, giving myself some grace, and gaining the confidence to share my experiences with others.
What advice or recommendations do you have for athletes who are interested in applying to the program?
If you are an athlete interested in participating in the program, I would definitely recommend it! When it comes to your involvement, no accomplishment is too big or too small. Everything you do to furthers your understanding of your own mental health and that of others, which is all important to mental health advocacy and awareness.
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