Up on Game Presents

This is “Who We Are: Penn State” — brought to you by the Penn State Alumni Association. A show where distinguished graduates return to share their stories. Where we dig into the moments that shaped them. And where you discover that wearing these colors never really ends. In part two of this episode of WHO WE ARE hosted by LaVar Arrington, Penn State alumnus from 2004, Amanda Gifford Lockwood continues to share her inspiring journey from Penn State student to Emmy-winning ESPN executive. They discuss the winding path from student teaching to a 23-year ESPN career. She shares how Penn State opportunities, relationships, and persistence shaped her work, and offers advice on using college resources, standing out as a creator, and staying connected to the alumni community.

• Lockwood pursued sports media while double majoring in elementary education and journalism at Penn State, then earned an ESPN radio production assistant internship.
• Her 15-week ESPN internship was followed by student teaching third grade in State College; she stayed connected to ESPN through remote work and occasional weekend production shifts.
• She says adapting how you communicate to each individual child taught lessons she still uses with people across the media industry.
• Her advice to students: use Penn State’s Alumni Association, network, professors, and College of Communications facilities.
• For aspiring content creators, she urges finding a distinctive angle that audiences cannot get from countless competing feeds and shows.
• Lockwood describes the Penn State alumni network as a practical career resource, citing recent meetings with Penn State graduates at Augusta National and in college football.
• She discusses Emmy wins for College GameDay, SportsCenter, and SEC on ABC, emphasizing that large production teams share the achievement.
• After 23 years at ESPN, she credits Penn State’s facilities, professors, access, and experiences with helping prepare her for a career she still considers a dream.

 

#2pros #fsr #upongame #upongamepresents

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  In this episode of Good In The Game, College Football Hall of Famer LaVar Arrington talks with Mark Dantonio, longtime Michigan State head coach and National Football Foundation Hall of Fame inductee, about the coaches and relationships that shaped his career. Dantonio shares his five cornerstones for success, reflects on developing players on and off the field, and describes community service and the standards behind Michigan State's winning years.

Takeaways

• You gotta relate to your players.
• They've gotta trust each other and trust the coaching.
• You gotta be passionate about what you're doing and be innovative.
• People don't understand the process. They understand the product.
• Both coaches were big on relationships and spending time with their players on things other than just football.
• You don't get there without great people and you don't get there without one person doesn't get there.
• You have to have a total group of people going in the same direction.
• You gotta win championships.

 

 

#2pros #upongame #FSR

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In this episode of Good In The Game, College Football Hall of Famer LaVar Arrington dives into the inspiring journey of Coach Rich Rodriguez as he shares his journey from a small town in West Virginia to becoming a renowned football coach. Coach Rodriguez discusses the evolution of offensive strategies, the importance of coaching, and advice for aspiring coaches and athletes.

Quotes:

• "High school coaches are among the least appreciated professionals"
• "Football has changed lives every day"
• "Coaches are changing lives through mentorship"

Key Topics

• Rich Rodriguez's journey from West Virginia to coaching
• The evolution of football offense and the role of RPOs
• The importance of coaching and mentorship in football
• The impact of football on players' lives and communities
• Adapting to changes in college football, including the transfer portal and player pay
• The significance of culture and playing hard in winning
• Advice for aspiring coaches and athletes

#2pros #upongame #FSR

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This is “Who We Are: Penn State” — brought to you by the Penn State Alumni Association. A show where distinguished graduates return to share their stories. Where we dig into the moments that shaped them. And where you discover that wearing these colors never really ends. In part one of this two-episode series of WHO WE ARE hosted by LaVar Arrington, Penn State alumnus from 2004, Amanda Gifford Lockwood shares her inspiring journey from Penn State student to Emmy-winning ESPN executive, highlighting the importance of community, mentorship, and differentiation in a competitive media landscape.

 -Mentorship and early support from Steve Jones

-Experience in sports journalism and radio -Internship at ESPN and summer in sports media

-Balancing teaching and career aspirations

Takeaways:

-Leverage mentorship opportunities early in your career.

-Utilize university resources and networks for growth.

-Stay connected to your college community for opportunities.

 

 

 

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In this episode of Good In The Game, College Football Hall Of Famer LaVar Arrington dives into the inspiring journey of Tim Couch, a College Football Hall of Famer, as he shares the invaluable life lessons learned on the football field and their profound impact on his business ventures. From the importance of teamwork and resilience to the power of building strong relationships, Tim reveals how the principles of football have shaped his success in the business world. Join us as we explore how dedication, hard work, and a commitment to excellence can lead to triumph both on and off the field.

QUOTES:

"Everyone out there wants to win, but what are you willing to pay? What are you willing to sacrifice to win football games?"

"The game of football absolutely changed my life and not only my life, it changed the people around me's lives."

"It's not about what you're born with talent-wise; it's about the effort you put into this game. What you put in is what you're going to get out of it."

#2pros #upongame #fsrweekends

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Join LaVar Arrington as he sits down with legendary coach Urban Meyer in this compelling episode of "Good in the Game." Dive into Urban's unparalleled coaching journey, his thoughts on NIL, and the importance of education in sports. Discover the stories behind his coaching philosophy, his legacy, and his candid insights on the evolving landscape of college football. Whether you're a fan of the game or curious about the man behind the titles, this episode offers a raw and unfiltered look at one of football's greats. Don't miss it!

 

#upongame #2pros #fsrweekends

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LaVar sits down with 2020 Hall of Famer Cade McNown to discuss how he got to UCLA, getting into his first game against Ray Lewis and the Miami Hurricanes plus what football has meant to him and how the NFF has helped him give back to the sport he loves so much.

Key Topics:

Cade's journey from high school to UCLA Overcoming adversity: the emergency appendectomy The transition from football to finance The role of the National Football Foundation Life lessons from the game

Call to Action: Subscribe now to catch more inspiring stories from athletes who have excelled both on and off the field.

#upongame #2pros #fsrweekends

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Two Penn State legends sit down as LaVar Arrington and Todd Blackledge chat about how the game of football has helped shape their lives, the College Football Playoff, Penn State in the 80s and being coached by Joe Paterno.

Takeaways

• Todd Blackledge is a Penn State legend and national champion.
• His journey from Ohio to Penn State was influenced by family and academics.
• Football teaches valuable life lessons such as teamwork and perseverance.
• Preparation for broadcasting mirrors the preparation for playing quarterback.
• Joe Paterno had a significant impact on Blackledge's life and career.
• The National Football Foundation fosters community and connection among players.
• The expanded college football playoff system increases access for more teams.
• Blackledge emphasizes the importance of attention to detail in both sports and academics.
• Longevity in broadcasting requires continuous improvement and adaptation.
• Blackledge values the relationships built through football and broadcasting.

#upongame #fsrweekends #2pros

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LaVar Arrington sits down with the College Football Hall of Famer Lincoln Kennedy from the class of 2015 to discuss what the game has meant to his life, how he got on one of the most talented teams in college football history, and where life has taken him after stepping away from football. Kennedy discusses the profound impact football has had on his life, particularly in terms of education and opportunities. He reflects on his journey from a military family in San Diego to becoming a standout player at the University of Washington and later in the NFL. Kennedy emphasizes the importance of communication and personal development, sharing insights on his connection with the National Football Foundation and his transition into media after football. He also highlights the significance of community engagement and the challenges athletes face post-career.

Takeaways

• Football provided me with an opportunity for higher education.
• Education is a rare opportunity that should be cherished.
• Communication skills are essential for personal development.
• I never wanted to be just a football player; I wanted to be well-rounded.
• The National Football Foundation plays a crucial role in promoting education.
• Success in football is measured by longevity and teamwork.
• Transitioning to the professional level is a significant challenge.
• Life after football requires adapting to a new identity.
• Community service is vital for personal fulfillment.
• Food is a way to bring people together and foster connections.

#upongame #2pros #fsrweekends

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LaVar is joined this week by two finalist for the Campbell Trophy, Notre Dame linebacker Jack Kiser and UNLV linebacker Jackson Woodard. LaVar chats with each about their play on the field, the achievements in the classroom and what the Campbell Trophy means to them.

Named in honor of the late William V. Campbell, the former chairman of Intuit, former player and head coach at Columbia University and the 2004 recipient of the NFF's Gold Medal, The William V. Campbell Trophy® has become the most prestigious and desirable "academic" award in college football. The trophy recognizes an individual as the absolute best in the country for his academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership.

Takeaways:

• Playing at Notre Dame is a prestigious honor.
• The Campbell Trophy recognizes academic and athletic excellence.
• Handling success is crucial for team growth.
• Academic performance directly impacts athletic performance.
• Identity beyond football is essential for personal development.
• Football provides unique life experiences and opportunities.
• Community service is a vital part of being a student-athlete.
• Education is key for future aspirations beyond football.
• The evolution of linebacker play requires adaptability and skill.
• Football represents a way of life and personal fulfillment.

#upongame #fsrweekends #2Pros

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