Transformative Potential of Football
From the Nominator
William & Mary's vision states, "William & Mary transcends the boundaries between research and teaching, teaching and learning, learning and living. People come to William & Mary wanting to understand and change the world—and together we do." Will Smith '14 is the perfect example of that vision in action. From William & Mary to the world, Will Smith '14 chronicles his journey that started with a "Politics in Africa" course at W&M and eventually results in the establishment of the LEAD Monrovia Football Academy in Liberia. LEAD MFA provides Liberia's talented youth with academic classes, football training, and life skills lessons to improve academic performance, break down gender barriers, and prepare students to lead positive change in Liberia.
From the Judges
An inspiring story that is well-developed and structured. This is a nice way of filming and narrating a sports story that is not just about sports. The styling is clean and simplistic, but appropriate for the feel of the story, which grabs your attention from the beginning and keeps you watching.