ALUMNI PROFILE
Life Since CPA
After leaving CPA , I attended Belmont University where I earned my degree in public relations and played basketball . I went on to play professional basketball in Germany for three years . I was injured in the preseason my third season and decided to retire . I took a job at Baylor School in Chattanooga , where I have been for the last three years . At Baylor I was an assistant basketball coach and an assistant strength coach . I just got engaged a few months ago to the love of my life . We will marry next May ! I officially began working at CPA in June , and I am happy to be back home !
Craig Bradshaw ’ 12
How did CPA prepare you for your current pursuits ?
CPA helped me to become more outgoing . When I first came to CPA as a junior , I had to learn to get outside of my comfort zone in order to make new friends . As a coach , I still relate . I have to build relationships with our student athletes every day in order to have a successful team . I can also use my experience at CPA to help kids who come in like me . It is hard being the new kid sometimes , and I have been through that , so I can share my experiences with them .
Are there any specific people at CPA you feel shaped your personal growth ?
Coach Drew Maddux is the main person . I will never forget the first day I was on campus . Someone walked into Coach Maddux ’ s office to have a meeting , and I sat down after shaking hands . As soon as they left the room , he looked at me and said , “ You stand up when meeting someone new . Your first impression is everything .” That is just one example of how much he has helped me as a person .
Any words of advice for young people at CPA heading out into the world ?
My advice is to not take what you have for granted . We sometimes overlook how lucky we are in high school . You go to a great school with incredible teachers and coaches . When you leave that place , your life will completely change . Take advantage of your high school days , because you don ’ t get them back .
How do you seek to influence today ’ s world ?
I try to be as positive and upbeat as possible every day and bring energy into my environment . I hope it rubs off onto other people as I go through life .
How does your faith impact how you live and work ?
As a coach , my faith helps me as I try to disciple and mentor my players . I try to be a positive influence on their walks with Christ while coaching them .