University of North Carolina Athletics
Summer Challenge Builds Teamwork
July 25, 2014 | Football
However, there is another non-football competition happening each summer between members of the squad. Starting in 2012 - Larry Fedora's first year as head coach - the team has participated in the Summer Challenge with activities ranging from kickball and dodge ball games to paint ball battles.
An NFL-style draft is held in late spring where eight captains select their teammates to compete in the challenge. Shakeel Rashad, Mitch Trubisky, Marquise Williams, Norkeithus Otis, Quinshad Davis, Tim Scott, Landon Turner and Jeff Schoettmer captained this year's teams.
Points were awarded based on fun activities like ultimate frisbee and paint ball to more serious matters like attendance and performance in the classroom.
"The guys really take it seriously and do their homework on who they want to select and be on their team," said Ronald Brewer, UNC's director of football student-athlete development.
After the draft, competitions began in earnest with players vying for the honor of being served dinner on the final night of the summer by the losing team.
"The Summer Challenge is something we've been doing for a few years and it's a good way to hold guys accountable to their teammates while also having some fun during the off months," says Fedora. "I believe it helps build teamwork and leadership."
A close competition ended with Team Rashad winning the overall challenge.
"It's always good to come out here and do some things with the guys that are not football related," says sophomore Ryan Switzer. "It's always interesting to see who can do some other things."
Players Mentioned
