ST. AUGUSTINE – National Basketball Association (NBA) referee, and former Flagler College men's basketball player, Jonathan Sterling traveled back to his alma mater to speak to the 2021-22 men's basketball players on Sept.15.
Sterling will be starting his fifth year in the NBA as a referee and played basketball for two seasons (2004-05 and 2005-06) at Flagler.
"It was great being back on campus and in Flagler Gym as well as the locker room," said Sterling. "Being able to interact with the team was a great experience as this team is loaded with smart and good young men.
Gallery: (9-27-2021) Jonathan Sterling
Flagler head men's basketball coach
Chad Warner, who begins his fifth season in the Ancient City, holds a "Beyond Basketball" series each week to help the team focus on life after basketball. Former team manager Viv Helwig, who is the founder and president of Vested Metals in St. Augustine, helped connect Warner with Sterling.
"Our guys are so fortunate to have someone in Jonathan's position to give his time to them," said Warner. "He is truly elite in what he does and we are indebted to his service to our team. I have so much admiration for his work ethic and professionalism. He made us all better today."
Sterling traveled down from his home in Atlanta, Georgia to talk to the team in the locker room about the process he went through to become an official. The need for new officials has never been greater and the opportunities are there for former players to be involved with the game after their careers are done.
"Thank you, Coach Warner and your staff, for inviting me to talk with you and the team," added Sterling. "I'm always proud to be a Flagler College alum and student-athlete."
Sterling, and his wife Lauren Holtkamp, both officiate in the NBA. Both served as officials collegiately, including the Peach Belt Conference.
Click here to view his story from The Record from Feb. 27, 2018 by Will Brown.
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