County students learn science behind the sports

Oklahoma State University soccer and football players came to Kingfisher recently to teach students the science behind those sports as part of Devon SportsLab’s Community Events.

Devon SportsLab is an interactive workshop that uses sports to teach science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts through a partnership between Devon Energy, Engage Learning, the University of Oklahoma, OSU and Tulsa University.

Tangi Smith, community relations supervisor at Devon Energy, said the company’s goal is to show students that STEM is in most things they do.

“Devon SportsLab wants to show kids that STEM extends beyond the classroom and into every-day activities, like sports,” Smith said. “We hope the students’ experience today inspires them to dream big and maybe even pursue a STEM career someday.”

Kingfisher Upper Elementary Principal Erin Michael said students were very excited to learn from OSU student-athletes.

“Our students have been looking forward to this day for weeks,” Michael said. “It’s not every day you get to have quality time with some of your favorite athletes. We are thankful to Devon for bringing this amazing experience to Kingfisher.”

OSU student-athletes helped run interactive drills, teaching the science behind passing, ball control and dribble technique.

Among the football players on hand were Rashod Owens, Obi Ezeigbo, Lyrik Rawls and Justin Kirkland.

Soccer players were Xcaret Pineda, Ellie Geoffroy, Caroline Dill and Gracie Bindbeutel.

Typically, Devon Sport-Lab is held before college athletic events or during half-day clinics on campus.

However, this event was one of several community clinics to be hosted across the state.

For more information about Devon SportsLab, visit devonsportslab. com.