In a small, quiet room of the library, a select group of athletes chosen for their leadership gather for the first time. In the Athletic Book Club, athletes come together and read books, journals and set personal goals. The Athletic Book Club is a new club started by library media specialist and former athlete, Amanda Pata. Together, the reading group will forge a bond that transcends the playing field, united in their pursuit of academics and benefiting their mental health.
With a new opportunity of leading the Athletic Book Club, library media specialist Pata brings her own story as a former softball player at Wayne State University to the forefront. Inspired by her passion for both literature and sports, Pata seized the opportunity to connect with student athletes through reading and discussion.
“I actually played high school sports and then went on to play some college sports and became a librarian,” Pata said. “So these are two of my passions kind of mixed together. I also like to be able to connect to like minded groups.”
After being recruited by her swim and softball coaches, junior Addie Wakefield decided to join the Athletic Book Club. Currently the club is reading the book “The Young Champion’s Mind” by Jim Afremow. Wakefield likes the book club because it is a chance for her to meet and connect with fellow athletes.
“It’s really geared towards people that play many sports and it talks about more of the mental game than the physical game, and that’s something that interests me,” Wakefield said.
Just starting her journey in the club, Wakefield is excited for the future and is ready to discuss books and mental health with her fellow athletes. She appreciates every moment in the book club, getting there through her hard work and dedication.
“I feel very honored that my coaches see me as an upcoming leader,” Wakefield said. “I am very grateful that I am getting an opportunity to work with other leaders and learn more about how to be a better teammate.”
Not only are the students reading in the club, but they also get to have guest speakers come in to connect with students. Pata shares what students will encounter as members of the Athletic book club.
“They are going to study a book and they get a chance to hear from some local coaches, professional and college athletes who can connect to their experiences,” Pata said.
