Braves Triumph: Underdogs, Titles & Ottawa Culture

This episode of The Jacobson Report celebrates a phenomenal year for Ottawa University Athletics with AD Janet Eaton Smith and NAIA Coach of the Year Jim Whitaker. Coach Whitaker recounts the remarkable underdog story of the women’s track and field team’s KCAC championship victory, highlighting athlete development, overcoming injuries, and an extraordinary number of lifetime best performances. AD Eaton Smith details other national successes, including the flag football team’s fifth consecutive national title, alongside wins in powerlifting and e-gaming, showcasing the breadth of talent and dedicated coaching. Both leaders emphasize the special culture at Ottawa, focusing on developing well-rounded student-athletes who excel academically and personally, driven by respect and a strong work ethic. The conversation underscores the vital role of supportive leadership and the team’s ability to peak at the most crucial moments, creating inspiring Cinderella stories.