Governor Bob McDonnell was joined by Virginia Commonwealth University Basketball Coach Shaka Smart and several of his players, as well as Richmond Chief of Police Bryan Norwood along with members of his department, and Navy SEAL John McGuire, when he visited the fifth grade class at Overby-Sheppard Elementary School in Richmond today to discuss leadership, physical fitness, healthy living and setting goals. These community leaders spent time with the students discussing important components for success and answered questions from students about their experiences in leadership and building teams to achieve success.
"These children are the future of this city, this Commonwealth, and this great country of ours," McDonnell said. "As they continue to learn and grow, it is important that they focus on developing physical and emotional habits that will allow them to become the leaders of tomorrow. Coach Smart and his team are shining examples of how physical discipline and teamwork can take these kids places you never dreamed they could go. And, Chief Norwood and his team can help kids learn how to distinguish what is right and wrong and help them to become examples to others in our capitol city. Together, as partners, we are here today to answer these student's questions and provide any advice we can offer to help them get off to a great start as they continue learning how to be good citizens and strong leaders."
Coach Smart said, "Our team is extremely excited about being here at Overby-Sheppard Elementary with these students. The opportunity to develop hard work, disciple, teamwork is near and dear to our heart. In fact, our program is predicated on these characteristics. Each of these students can achieve their dreams by focusing on these principles. We truly appreciate the opportunity to be here today."
Chief Norwood said, "This is a great opportunity to partner with private business SEAL Team Training, VCU and their elite basketball team, coaching staff, and state agencies such as the governor's office to provide positive reinforcement to our school children through positive role models, coaching and leadership skills building through physical fitness and hands-on participation with the role model participants."
Navy SEALS John McGuire and Jay Manty then led the students through a series of healthy workout activities to teach physical fitness.
Navy SEAL John McGuire said, "Our mission at SEAL Team PT is to help people become stronger, healthier and more confident. There really is nothing like teamwork to bring out the best in people. Training at Overby-Sheppard Elementary School is a great opportunity to give back to our community and have a positive impact on these young people. The team evolutions we do are a fun and effective way to build teamwork, leadership, and confidence. We often say, 'Don't let the world put limits on you and don't put limits on yourself. We can all do more than we think, especially when we work as a team.'"
Source: http://www.governor.virginia.gov/News/viewRelease.cfm?id=1220
