BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Former Alabama strength and conditioning coach Scott Cochran recently spoke to Samford students and staff as part of the CHAMPS: Letting God Lead Series in the Pete Hanna Center.
 
A total of 257 people including student-athletes, non-student-athletes and staff attended the talk. Food was provided by Sanpeggio's Pizza in Homewood.
 
Cochran is the former Strength Coach for football under Nick Saban and Kirby Smart. He battled substance abuse and now speaks to help raise awareness and "eliminate the whisper."  He shared how his faith helped him through his addiction and recovery and how to be the best version of yourself.
 
Please visit eliminatethewhisper.com to learn more about the American Addiction Recovery Association.
 
Below are the thoughts of some of the Samford staff and student-athletes who attended the event.
 
Chris Hatcher, Head Football Coach
"I thought it was a great message that resonated with all our athletes. Scott has been a friend of mine for a long time, and it is good to see him be able to share his personal journey. I was also able to retain a few nuggets as well. It was a great way to start the semester."
 
 
Jonathan Farris, Director of Olympic Sports Performance
"Coach hired me at Alabama. I worked there from 2010-2013 before coming to Samford. I had no clue he was dealing with addiction at the time. Coach's story is one that is unique, and I appreciate how he is using his platform to help those who are in need. It is not every day that someone survives an overdose. He is one of those who has survived and lives to tell the story and help others. To have the opportunity to hear the past, present and future of Coach's journey is a privilege. To be able to have worked with Coach for the short time of my career brought back memories of Coach, players and a program that I am proud to be a part of."
 
 
Annie Holt, student-athlete- Women's Tennis
"I really thought his analogy where he said to look back at your 10th grade self and ask if they would be proud of you. I thought it was really powerful because 10th grade is a huge year for adjusting especially if you are trying to be a college athlete. I also loved how he talked about post-it notes on the mirror. I personally use them and can say that they do work. Putting up your goals in front of you makes a huge difference."
 
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