STATESBORO - As part of Black History Month, the Georgia Southern Athletics Department and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion group within the department are highlighting successful former Eagle student-athletes. GSEagles.com had a chance to catch up with former football star Marvin James, who played football for the Eagles from 1994-1999.
James was known for his hard and physical play for the Eagles back in the 90s, and was essential to helping the Eagles' option attack succeed with his with his strong pull-blocking capabilities. James helped the Eagles win two-straight Southern Conference championships in 1997 and 1998. James currently serves as the sports anchor and sports executive producer for 13 WMAZ in Macon, Ga.
1. How did your time at Georgia Southern pave the way for your success?
I grew up ALOT in Statesboro. I met lifelong friends who prepared me to be a better student, better friend and better football player. I met my future wife and really just discovered so many things about becoming an adult while facing region time of my life. If nothing else I learned incredible balance. I often share with people, "I didn't just go to Georgia Southern, I graduated from there."
2. How did being a student-athlete prepare you for the position that you are in today?
Being fortunate to be recruited as a student athlete at Georgia Southern gave me all the discipline and structure I needed to succeed in the classroom and on the field. Playing football for a championship culture provided me the same motivation with my books and setting sights on my goals in the broadcast industry while being passionate about obtaining them.
3. What is your current career? What do you enjoy most about it?
In May I will celebrate 24 years as a broadcast journalist. Currently I am the sports director at WMAZ in Macon, Ga. (CBS affiliate) I enjoy the daily storytelling and opportunities to meet new people while covering some amazing stories all across the state and country.
4. Who was your biggest inspiration at Georgia Southern?
My biggest inspiration at GSU was Dr. Kenneth McMillian. He was my academic coach with the athletic department. He was like our father away from home. He issued tough love because it was necessary. He taught us gentlemen etiquette and proper behavior that many of us former student athletes still use today as we share and teach the next generation. Miss him very much but his impact will forever be a part of who I am.
5. How do you hope to serve as a role model to younger Black athletes and women?
I've been in their shoes trying to find balance and motivation to excel. But I acknowledge that I haven't experienced life as a student athlete under the eye of new age social media and the pressures of mental health. I try to be a pillar of support not just as a sports reporter but an advocate for their success. I don't just talk at them, I communicate with them. I'm available for when they give a question or a request. It's important to always reach back and help lift people as we climb. And using the word "balance" again, I use my platform to help our young ladies get equally recognized in their athletic and academic victories. I'm a proud "girl dad" and understand the importance of empowering our young women of today and tomorrow.
6. What does Black History Month mean to you?
BHM is merely a reminder to me that so many important and successful people have created endless opportunities for this nation and they just happen to be black. I always try to learn something new about my culture during this allotment of time. I pray in the process that everyone embraces this month as history, not just black history. But if there was no month-long tribute, nothing would change for me. I am black 365/24/7 so I'm aware of the struggles, the defeats and the triumphs African Americans have faced in this country and will continue to face. I just want to always be the best representation of a man in this world, who happens to be black.
