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For the second and final episode, I talk with Max Wright, the unsung hero of Texas A&M University football. Max Wright is a sixth year returner to the football team. He is a tight end and effective at his job. He has made big plays in time of need and seems to always step up to the task at hand. His unwavering loyalty and love for the Texas A&M football team is known by all. I want to know what makes Wright such an outstanding performer and great teammate. To learn more about him, we will discuss what part mental health has played in his career at Texas A&M.

Knowing that Wright has a passion for mental health as I do, the questions will be more specific and hopefully lead to sharing stories. We will dive into the topics as they come up in conversation such as:

• What is something you had to learn over the years that benefitted your mental health?
• Were there any hard lessons or times that affected your performance on the field?
• What sparked your passion for mental health?
• Being a leader on the team, do you find yourself having to teach the younger players?
• If so, do any pertain to mental health or how they view life?
• What is one thing you will takeaway from your time at Texas A&M and carry with you after graduation?
• What lessons have you learned that apply to everyday life?

Wright’s passion for mental health makes for easier conversation. Knowing we have something in common, I plan for more in depth conversation with him. I aim to provide sustenance that can be applied to life as a whole. Wright carries a supporting role among his teammate and is not afraid to show his love for the team. I want to know what makes him such a supportive person. That kind of passion is not seen in many people and that makes Wright special. His experience and knowledge of the team benefit him in his leadership position. Although his seniority ranks him higher, his teammates respect him for the man he is, not his title.

Find Episode 2 on “Podcasts for Aggies” on Spotify!

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     Maintaining a great mental health is a struggle many people face. Combine that with being a newly recruited Texas A&M football player and you are stepping into daunting territory. This is the place to learn about mental health among student athletes. To start this journey, who better to deep dive into mental health among student athletes with than Colton Thomasson?

     Thomasson is a freshman football player at Texas A&M University. He graduated Smithson Valley High School a semester early to join the team in time for spring ball of 2023. He is a 6’7″, 315 pound offensive lineman. Few athletes have the ability to best him physically, but I want to know if any mental battles have ever defeated him.

As the first of two interviews, Thomasson and I will discuss life as a new recruit:

• What is it like being ‘fresh meat’?
• What is it like forming friendships with the other players?
• What goals has he laid out for himself and how does he plan on achieving them?
• What, if any, obstacles or struggles have presented themselves so far?
• Is there anything in specific he does to maintain a healthy mental state?

Life as a collegiate athlete is hectic when considering how many responsibilities you have. But it’s also controlled, organized, and largely routine based. I plan to find out what routine(s) Colton has set for himself that allow him to stay focused and healthy, physically and mentally.

My personal experience will also play apart in our discussion. I was once that new recruit Thomasson is now. Life was difficult and I had troubles finding a functional routine that I enjoyed. Unfortunately, I never figured it out. I had to stop playing for the sake of my mental health. Now, Colton is at the stage in his life where I once was. Join me on Episode 1 to hear what Colton has to say about his new life!

Find Episode 1 on “Podcasts for Aggies” on Spotify!