Veterans & Football: A Winning Combination

In this episode, we are talking about Thomas University’s new football program, the first in the nation designed specifically to assist veterans and military personnel in their transition from military to civilian life. 

Giving us insights into this unique combination of academic and athletic programs is Stephen Ferguson, vice president for military and corporate relations at Thomas University.

Located in Thomasville, Georgia, Thomas University is a regionally accredited, non-profit university that offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and education specialist degrees at its main campus, online, and satellite locations in Tallahassee and across Georgia.

What you will learn on this podcast: 

• In 2017, Thomas University opened the Center for Military Life to provide resources during the entire life cycle of military service, from pre-enlistment, career advancement to transition support back to service life.
• Thomas University accepts up to 64 college credits from military training toward a college degree. The valuable on-the-job training is evaluated for credit and is part of the student’s Joint Services Transcript ((JST) or Community College of the Air Force transcript. 
• Offering multiple online programs for global access, Thomas University’s on-campus classes—with an average class size of 10 to 15 students—provide veterans with an easy transition to college life. 
• The university is an academic partner with the National Defense Industrial Association to help connect veterans and military personnel in job placement. Ferguson says it creates a “crosswalk from higher education to industry.” 
• Earlier this year, Thomas University established the nation’s first football program explicitly designed to assist veterans in transitioning from military to civilian life. 
• To lead the Night Hawks football team, the university hired seasoned football coach Orlando Mitjans, Jr., who brings more than 20 years of coaching experience, including positions at The Citadel and West Point.
• The football team will include military veterans, active reservists, and members of the National Guard.
• The inaugural football team is on track to start during the fall 2023 season. Thomas University is exploring options to build a permanent stadium on its campus; however, they will use a local high school stadium in the interim.
• Thomas University is part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Sun Conference.

Ferguson says the Thomasville community has provided an “outpouring of support” and positive feedback from local businesses and residents.

“It’s not just football; it’s a transition program that allows veterans to be together and play together and continue the camaraderie that they are used to in the United States armed services.”

Join us next time as we continue to promote South Georgia as a great place to live, work, play, and visit.

Thanks to our sponsor Smalltown Broadcasting and WDDQ, home of the Scott James Matheson Show, where you can listen live from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., Monday through Friday on Talk 92.1 http://talk921.com/ or through the TuneIn app https://tunein.com/radio/Talk-921