Mentoring Student Athletes
The Coach 5-0 program is a collaborative effort involving the Arlington Independent School District Athletic Department and the Arlington Police Department . Officers serve as mentors for high school student athletes . The goal is to help inspire success on the field and in life .
The inspiration for Coach 5-0 came from the tragic death of Carl Wilson , a high school athlete who was moving closer to his dream of becoming a professional football player . However , his dreams were shattered when he was shot during an altercation .
Coach 5-0
The first Coach 5-0 session started in September 2015 at a football game at Martin High School . It has since expanded to include other sporting activities at Arlington-area high schools .
On the sidelines and in locker rooms , Arlington Police officers are available to help teens cope with the pressures associated with being a student athlete .
Working with coaches , officers help to reinforce the messages of perseverance , discipline , and teamwork .
They encourage students to use their gifts and talents , and help them discover interests and attain goals . Relationships are built on trust gained through frequent interaction and working together to solve problems when they occur .
The department has seen tremendous success in allowing officers on- and off-duty to work out , stand on sidelines , and mentor student athletes through this amazing partnership .
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