Tall, Black Student Not On Sports Team

Story by Jacob Fricke 

| Published Jan 26, 2010

David Stevens is used to everything the student body throws at him. He’s used to the odd glances, the double takes and even the occasional outright question. However, Stevens would like to set the record straight: He does not play sports for any Husker team.

Stevens, a sophomore engineering major, is African-American and 6 foot 3 inches tall. And, though it appears as if he would be a natural fit for both basketball and football, Stevens has no interest in either activity.

“To be quite honest, I wasn't even aware that the university had either team. I simply came here for the area-renowned engineering program,” said Stevens, in his soft-spoken and polite manner. “Though I now follow the football team, I ensure that my interest in it does not interfere with my studying or grades.”

Born in Des Moines, Iowa, Stevens has been a straight-A student since middle school. He was drawn to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln at a young age, and by the time he had graduated as valedictorian of his high school class, he had been accepted to the university and was prepared to start his dream. However, he immediately hit a roadblock.

“I went to see an admissions counselor, and she immediately began recommending remedial classes for me. After I showed her my file and resume, she turned a deep shade of maroon before apologizing profusely. It was hard to stay mad at her after that.”

Stevens has been, however, has been historically bothered by insensitive students. “During my freshman year here, I will confess to being a tad annoyed. It was especially annoying during one of the final games last year, when an intoxicated fraternity member congratulated me for my superb play the previous week. Though I can accept compliments, I’m only comfortable doing so if I deserve it.”

Even Stevens' teacher confesses to misconceptions. Dr. Cassandra Harris was intrigued when last year, as she was waiting for students to arrive the first day, someone she assumed to be a Husker wide receiver was the first to enter the hall. “I’m embarrassed to admit it now, but I just figured he was a player. Oh, how wrong I was. As soon as I asked a question to the class, his hand was the first in the air.”

Stevens still expresses moderate amazement that people continue to make the mistake. “While I do not mean disrespect to any Cornhusker player, I dress quite differently than they tend to. You only tend to see players in a crisp dress shirt, tie and slacks when they are at an award ceremony or disciplinary hearing. However, I am willing to give my fellow student the benefit of the doubt.”

Still, regardless of all his attempts, Stevens still receives undue attention. “I was leaving the union yesterday after my free algebra tutoring session, when a ragged man smelling of alcohol grabbed my shoulder. I was not sure how to respond until the possibly homeless individual looked me straight in the eye and said ‘Thanks for a great season. I’m sure you’re goin’ all the way next year.’ Really, how am I supposed to respond to a statement such as that? One must simply do their best, and I feel as if I am.”