Associated Press
08-06-07
Cyclones Say They're Happy With New Life Skills Assistant
Coach Says Wanted Means For Players To Vent
AMES, Iowa -- Iowa State University football players are voicing approval of the
university's new life skills assistant.
Kevin Lykins, a pastor from Texas, was hired last month after weeks of
controversy.
Coach Gene Chizik wanted to make a pastor available to the football team in
the spring, but more than 130 faculty members signed a petition saying that
would be a violation of the separation of church and state.
The Iowa State Athletic Council recommended a new position of life skills
assistant, which was approved by President Greg Geoffroy.
Cyclone kicker Bret Culbertson said Lykins met the team on Friday. Culbertson
said he's psyched that the life skills assistant is in Ames, "religious or not.''
Receiver Milan Moses said Lykins is a "great guy" and tight end Ben Barkema
sayshe supported Chizik's initiative because it's what's best for the team.
Chizik said he wanted athletes to have an avenue to vent their feelings and there
were never plans to force-feed anybody.
Chizik declined to say where Lykins' office is, saying Lykins "just comes to work
every day.''
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