Journey is the institutional magazine of Carson-Newman University. Journey tells stories of Carson-Newman students, faculty and alumni of the University.
Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/50035
Eagle Spotlight Supporting Scholar-Athletes at Carson-Newman sponsored by the Eagle Club BYRON BELL Head football coach Ken Sparks is quick to champion defensive end Byron Bell. The senior helps lead the Eagles on the field, but it's the impact he's having on the lives of others through outreach and missions projects that have impressed his coaches. "Byron's one of those guys that will make a difference in this world," champions Sparks. "He's a great leader for this football team, and is a great leader in life." His coaches aren't the only ones who've noticed Byron's achievements, as he was named to the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team® in September. "Byron is significant," says Sparks. "He is out there winning people for the Lord; (he) understands what is important and pours his heart into it." Mike Clowney, defensive coordinator for the Eagles, seconds the head coach's claim. "He's a great person; just an all-around good guy you can count on. On the field and in the community [he does] whatever needs to be done." One of the sport's most prestigious community service awards, the Good Works Team® is comprised of 22 student-athletes across the nation who are committed to improving the lives of others while maintaining strong academics. Byron was one of only two Division II players named to the team. "What popped into my head was all the people who helped me get to this point," says Byron, who calls Knoxville home. "This isn't something I could have done by myself. I needed my teammates, my coaches and I want to thank God for the opportunity to go out and perform." The heart he shows on the field is second only to the heart he has for service. He has served as president of Carson-Newman's Fellowship of Christian Athletes for two years, he also developed and implemented C-N Compassion, an effort that helps area residents who need physical labor to accomplish tasks around their homes. Beyond tutoring fellow students, Byron's outreach has included assisting with campus beautification projects, distributing Thanksgiving meals to families in need, volunteering with Luke 14 Banquet, a local carnival for special needs children, and speaking in area schools during bullying prevention programs. He has volunteered time as a summer counselor at Kids Across America, and traveled on mission trips to Israel and South Africa that included serving in an orphanage. As active as he is, Byron refuses to lessen his focus on academics. Double majoring in religion and business administration, he continues to maintain a 3.1 GPA. And he plays pretty good football as well. He was a preseason All-South Atlantic Conference selection at defensive end. During the 2010 season the 6-1, 230-pound Bell started 10 games for the Eagles, recording 42 tackles, including 10 for a loss, and 6.5 sacks for a unit that ranked second in the SAC in scoring defense and rushing defense. C-N Box 72009 Jefferson City, TN 37760 eagleclub@cn.edu JOURNEY fall 2011 25