Fresno State Athletics
Seay's Mental Toughness Blends the Links with Hardwood
12/3/2009 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Dec. 3, 2009
FRESNO, Calif. - Whether it is on the hardwood, gridiron or golf links, the opportunity to draw on inner strength and heart is needed to succeed.
Senior Sylvester Seay is most often seen in his Bulldog uniform on the basketball floor as he uses his muscle and experience to dominate the low post and keep opposing defenses honest with his ability to knock down 3-pointers from just about anywhere on the floor.
Seay can draw on his background as a high school wide receiver and pedigree on the football field. His uncle Mark Seay played for the San Diego Chargers from 1993-95 and the Philadelphia Eagles from 1996-97, so that background can be credited for his distinct competitive fire. He was recruited to play college football, but eventually decided that his height and athleticism were best suited for premier college basketball.
"I had the choice to play football or basketball," Seay reflected on his decision. "I am a very competitive person and always play to win. We have high expectations as a team and the choice to play basketball gave me a wonderful opportunity to get an education on and off the floor."
As one of three upperclassmen on last year's roster, the Bulldogs turned to Seay for guidance and his ability to compete with the best opponents. His drive for excellence sparked his teammates to elevate their games.
Over the past year, the mental toughness of Seay, who transferred to Fresno State from Arizona State after two seasons, continues to grow and show in his approach to life. His role as the oldest member of the men's basketball team and his love of another sport have molded a more focused and determined student-athlete.
"Ves loves golf and the game helps him find a balance in life," head coach Steve Cleveland, who is also an avid golfer, said. "Golf teaches you mental toughness and core values in integrity, honesty and class. It is a game that is played internationally and hasn't been tainted by scandals. It's fun to play with Ves. He has a great swing."
Seay first started golfing when he attended a Massachusetts prep school, which had a course on campus, and developed his lasting love of the game. He enjoys spending time playing with Cleveland and he can draw on his coach's links experience.
"I enjoy being consistent and being able to hit good shot after good shot," Seay said of playing golf. "Just like on the basketball court, if you make a mistake, you have to keep going and forget about it. I really love executing shots, whether it's making it through an 8-foot wide gap from 150 yards out and reaching the green or any great shot. When you first start playing, it's that one shot that keeps you coming back. My main focus is trying to win and having a good time."
Cleveland sees another benefit in the role models fostered and showcased through the history of the game.
"Golf is one of my passions," Cleveland added. "The role models in the game demonstrate their values on a daily basis. It is a performance-based sport where you only get paid if you play well. In basketball, you can't take possessions off and mental discipline requires personal toughness."
Ves isn't shy about his standard of excellence.
"I want to be the next Tiger Woods," a determined Seay said. "You can play the game for a long time. You share time with people you may not have met and have hours to talk and learn from them."
His transformation as one of the Bulldogs' significant threats to score and defend in a variety of positions has helped the team prepare for this season. The road to Reno for the 2010 WAC Tournament officially begins in January when Fresno State opens conference play by hosting Boise State on Jan. 2, 2010, but the journey is well underway as the Bulldogs prepare during non-conference action.
As a fierce competitor, Seay hopes to leave a lasting collegiate legacy for a team capable of winning games and continuing to shine in the classroom. The psychological fortitude to break down barriers and plow through walls at the end of games will be a turning point for a very athletic team.
In those moments of time, Seay's experience on the golf links and gridiron just might be an x-factor when it comes down to one shot or making a defensive stop with a game on the line.
This story is from Fresno State's Official Sports Report and written by Stephen Trembley. To receive free daily Fresno State stories, go to www.officialsportsreport.com.
