By Thomas Corhern, TTU Sports Information
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – A smile and a positive attitude goes a long way. So does being open to help out their fellow neighbors. When Tennessee Tech senior DJ McFarlane finishes her day in class and practice, the Beltsville, Md., native has become a visible figure in the community.
Through her efforts, McFarlane was selected as the winner of November's Unsung Leader Award.
"DJ has not only elevated her game on the floor, but she has also elevated her game in the community," said Tech women's basketball assistant coach Allison Clark. "She is always volunteering for all of our community service opportunities. Everyone always wants her to stay and come back."
The honoree is nominated by their coaching staff and then selected and recognized for exemplifying outstanding leadership qualities, whether on the field, in the weight room, in practice, in the classroom, on campus, in the community of with a student club or organization.
The award honors a student-athlete who has made a positive impact on their team and the Tennessee Tech community as a whole, through their dedication to demonstrating leadership traits, such as:
- Keep learning, growing and improving;
- Follow through with excellence;
- Accomplish more than expected;
- Inspire and motivate others.
In the nomination period, McFarlane participated in 11 service hours as she visited Capshaw, Parkview and Algood Elementary. She also spent time working with Food to the Rescue.
"DJ is a selfless and giving individual," Clark said. "She is a great asset to our basketball team and she brings joy and a positive attitude each day. She reflects our core values each day and goes above and beyond to give back not only to her teammates, but in the community."
