No conflict between sports and academics - Russell

Calabar High school track and field star Dejour Russell believes there should be no conflict between academics and sports in schools, noting that student athletes must put their education first at all times.

Russell, who is current ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships Class One 110m hurdles champion, is a lower sixth form student at the Red Hills Road - based institution.                                   

“Sports versus academics; I know that the topic suggests that there is a conflict between academics and sports, for me there is no conflict," said Russell.                               

“I think one compliments the other. Let’s face the fact, not every athlete comes from a rich background, because most athletes use track and field to further their academics," he said.

The 18-year-old Russell added: "Sports and academics is a balance for me, it teaches how to groom yourself into a man because sports takes up a lot of your time. There is always life after sports, so make sure your education is the first thing to you." 

Russell was speaking at the TVJ Sports Town Hall meeting at The Mico University College on Thursday.