UConn's Olander Visits Southeast Elementary Students

Students from received a special treat on Friday when men’s basketball player, and Southeast alum, dropped by the school for a visit. 

Olander, a freshman forward on this year’s , took time out of his day to talk with students, sign autographs and even show off his dunking skills with assists from some of the children in the audience.

Teachers used the assembly as an opportunity to emphasize the importance of education, believing in oneself and living an active and healthy lifestyle.

“If you do those things, perhaps some day your dream will come true,” physical education teacher Betsy Parker said.

Olander was greeted with delighted squeals and rounds of applause as he entered the auditorium to the UConn fight song. Before saying a word, Olander had captivated the audience and students looked up at the 6’9” Olander, beaming. 

“He’s like a giant!” said one excited student. “He’s so much taller than me!”

Olander said that he hopes to serve as a good role model, knowing that children, especially those in Mansfield, may look up to him.

“I just want to remind you how important school is, and doing your school work and doing what your parents ask of you because they know what is best for you," Olander said.

"They want what’s best for you because they love and care about you, just like everybody in this school does,” he said.

“Listen to your teachers, do your work and work hard at everything you do; because if you do that, your dreams will come true as well,” he added.

Students listened attentively as Olander’s former elementary school teachers shared anecdotes and old photos from his time at Southeast.

“You have worked hard both academically and on the court,” Olander’s fourth-grade teacher via Skype said. “To succeed in both, you have demonstrated how important it is to use your time wisely." 

During the presentation, Olander received a special congratulatory gift from the students, faculty and staff: a signed Southeast game basketball.

“It’s been a thrill for our school to watch you play basketball,” said one fourth-grader.

“It’s really cool that you had a dream and went to Southeast,” said another.