Educator, Defenseman John Lintz connects students, lacrosse community via EduCup Challenge

During the season, it wasn’t uncommon for Mammoth defenseman John Lintz to occasionally grade papers while traveling on a flight from his home in Edmonton, Canada to his team’s home and away games. It isn’t always ideal.

“Most of the times what happens is I get through three essays and then I fall asleep,” Lintz quipped.

Lintz acknowledges the situation is challenging at times; given the differing mindsets needed between dealing with the educational needs of a teenager one afternoon and barking defensive instructions at practice later that evening. The secondary educator misses interacting with the lacrosse community and his students alike and was quick to get involved when the Everfi EduCup Challenge came to life.

“Now more than ever it’s important that you find somebody to reach out to…whether it’s a teacher or a coach or friend.” @MammothLax’s John Lintz and I talk virtual teaching struggles and mental health👇👇👇pic.twitter.com/RoOsRTnuKn

— Devan Kaney (@DevanKaneyTV) May 20, 2020

“The EduCup is an educational and competitive initiative getting students involved while they’re learning from home,” Lintz added. “Getting athletes involved from the various major leagues was a cool way of interacting and making sure they are staying interested in educational activities and exercises throughout the summer.”

Six professional sports leagues: MLB, NFL, NHL, NLL, the Premier League and MLS, partnered with Everfi to support the EduCup in the hopes that involving athletes and league entities will help keep students engaged with their studies. Lintz agrees with the approach.

“Anytime you can combine sports with education, I think right away, it grabs kids’ attention,” he said. “In talking to a few of my students that have struggled during this time, I think one of the big things they feel is that they are isolated in their bedrooms — they aren’t leaving their house and they’re not connecting with anyone. If you’re feeling isolated or struggling, make sure you’re connecting with someone who can help you.

The educator shared that it’s the mental aspects of this social distancing period that sparked his interest in participating in the two-week challenge.

“I think a big thing for us to consider is the mental health side of things,” Lintz explained. “Kids have really missed that connection to their friends, activities, after-school life, sports and interacting with their teachers. Trying to replace those interactions as a teacher is challenging.”

Lintz will host an Instagram Story Takeover on the National Lacrosse League’s Instagram (@NLL) Friday, May 29 to conclude and celebrate the final day of the Everfi EduCup Challenge.

“I’m super excited about it — I think it will show aspects of my life here in Edmonton and what’s been keeping my students and I busy this spring.”

Students and families interested in supporting Colorado and Team West can visit the Everfi EduCup homepage for a chance to win prizes while staying engaged in studies!