Author Archives: Natalie Graves

This blog post was originally written for the Chicago Crusader. By now we have heard about the sickening video that went viral of a New Jersey high school wrestler having his dreadlocks cut before his match. If 16-year-old Andrew Johnson did not comply with the referee’s demand, he would have forfeited his match. Not wanting … Continue reading »

Listen as I discuss the unique mental health considerations for black female athletes, and why it’s important to train your brain as well as your body, as well as tips to become the best version of yourself, with Bri from The Chocolate Bar Podcast.    

For most athletes, the year coming to a close has no real significance if they are truly in the mindset of constantly improving their game. It’s no secret that training is an essential part of success, which includes physical activities such as practicing drills, strength training, and cardio to improve performance. What many give little … Continue reading »

Listen as I discuss body image for black women atheletes with Dr. Joy from Therapy for Black Girls. We discussed some of the common issues black women face as athletes, how black women’s bodies are viewed and criticized in sports, and we discussed body image issues for athletes and black women in general.

Daron Byrden is already being called the “Future Tom Brady”.  Although Byrden is not being considered a college prospect as far as I know today (tomorrow who knows), his football development as well as his ranking are there for all to see. Labron James Jr., at ten years old, already gets attention just because of who his … Continue reading »

Parents Is It Time to Get Help Outside the Lines? (Athletic Stress) 1 of 5 part series of identifying athletes’ needs off the field.  Parents are getting their children involved in playing sports more than ever before. Increasingly, young people are playing organized sports not only in school but through park districts and sport camps. … Continue reading »

The Social Worker in London I have been given a wonderful opportunity to travel to London! (I leave this Friday) The University of Maryland has an Abroad Program where I was accepted as a visiting student. The program is called United Kingdom: Sport, Commerce, and Culture in the Global Marketplace. This program is designed for those … Continue reading »