These associations have been the most rewarding of my time at Princeton. Once his relationship with the basketball team took root, Bressler began scheduling alumni speaking engagements in conjunction with the team's away games. The events were generally scheduled during the day, before the team played. On the road, players talk about things that students talk about, including academic issues and personal matters. I guess they trusted me because I was a fan.
Players are often reluctant to discuss their concerns with parents, friends, and coaches.
Student-athletes face enormous expectations. Many fear failure and being considered weak. So when team members learned that Bressler could be a trusted ally, his role began to expand. Now, Bressler reaches out even before the players arrive on campus. Later, if they need advice or comfort, they can approach a professor who has a familiar face.