The high school gym was filled with energy last week as James A. Garfield students in grades 3–8 welcomed Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel and his team to kick off the Team Tressel Fitness Challenge. The assembly brought students and staff together around an encouraging message: set goals, stay consistent, and make healthy choices every day.
Tressel brought that message to life by leading a group through workouts that introduced students to the challenge. Joining him were former Ohio State standout and NFL player Mike Adams, current Kent State student-athletes, student volunteers from grades 3–8, and members of Garfield’s teaching and administrative staff. Seeing students, athletes, and staff participate together helped set the tone for a challenge built on personal effort and supporting one another.
Through their physical education classes, students receive a Team Tressel Fitness Challenge journal to set personal goals, track their progress, and reflect on their accomplishments as they work toward bronze, silver, and gold achievement levels. The challenge introduces activities involving cardio, strength, flexibility, healthy sleep habits, mindfulness, and nutrition, helping students connect everyday choices with their overall well-being.
Throughout the assembly, Tressel emphasized the importance of having an “attitude of gratitude.” He also welcomed a local physician to speak about caring for both the body and mind, reinforcing that healthy habits extend beyond exercise.
It is not every day that students have the opportunity to learn directly from Ohio’s lieutenant governor and a five-time national championship football coach. His visit made for a memorable day at Garfield and gave students an inspiring starting point for their own goals.
The momentum is already carrying into the school day. A growing group of middle school students has begun working toward the bronze level by participating in mindfulness and focus activities after lunch on Wednesdays and Fridays. Participation has increased over the first three sessions, and students are looking forward to earning 50 JAGcoins for completing the challenge.
Thank you to Lieutenant Governor Tressel, his team, and all the guests who helped launch this experience for our students. We look forward to cheering on our G-Men as they build healthy habits, support one another, and celebrate their progress!