Students from many different places and backgrounds converge at Mansfield's campus. This small, mountain school is home to a group of diverse students, from different races, genders, sexual identities, and religions. That diversity facilitates great connections and experiences, artistically, socially, academically, and athletically. The connections made in the classrooms or in the athletic facilities lead to the success of Mansfield programs.
 
Recently, Mansfield student-athletes geared up for and competed in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Indoor Track & Field Championship, held in Bethlehem, Pa. on February 28th and 29th. With 15 athletes competing, the last few weeks were crunch time for the Mounties. However, preparation did not look the same for everyone.
 
For senior nursing major Ibrahim Sheriff, who competed in the 4x400m relay, this paramount weekend happened to take place simultaneously with a religious holiday, Ramadan. The celebration of Ramadan occurs during the ninth month in the Islamic calendar; a time for immense spiritual growth and the demonstration of self discipline. Observing Muslims will fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from both food and drink, amongst other things. Sheriff shares that, "This allows me to get closer to God, further my piety, and to become a better human."

 His preparation and journey to compete had set him apart from his other teammates. "It is all about scheduling and balance" Sheriff explained. An early 5 a.m. wake-up during the week allows Sheriff to eat prior to his fast, and ample time to start his jam-packed days. As a nursing major, class/clinical days consist of a hefty commute and much needed structure.
 
"I wake up, eat/pray, head to school, come back to practice, finally break my fast/pray, and study for class."  Being away from family during this time is not easy but keeping in touch with his family and the support from his track teammates helps Sheriff to stay motivated.
 
In preparation for a big meet, Sheriff declares that "nutrition is very important." Being a food lover helps, as does the on-campus Manser dining hall, which is the next stop after practice. "I love food. I try to get all of my carbs, proteins, and fluids in."
 
Because water consumption is restricted during the fast, using electrolyte supplements like Liquid IV - which aids in hydration retention - is imperative for an athlete like Sheriff. "I try to drink half a gallon of water each day." Even championship athletes have a demanding sweet tooth. As a self-proclaimed snacker, Sheriff admits, "I crave sugar a lot… which isn't really good as an athlete, but I love my candies and my Starbursts." A great taste in sweets is no harm done for an athlete competing at the highest level.
 
The trip to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. for the PSAC Indoor Championships looked a little different for Sheriff. He explains that, in regard to the rules of Ramadan, a person who is traveling is not recommended to fast.
 
"As I traveled to Lehigh for championships, I was not able to fast. So, after Ramadan ends, I have to make up for those days that I missed."
 
Sheriff's advice to other athletes who may celebrate Ramadan, is to talk to coaches ahead of time. He drives home the importance of touching base with Mansfield track and field head coach Nick Mattis before the start of Ramadan, as it helps to create an understanding. "My coach does a really good job of knowing when I will be arriving for practice, and he stays after to help me out with whatever I need."
 
Mansfield showed up and showed out at the PSAC Indoor Track & Field Championship, bringing home medals and accomplishments to the mountain. Cahsid Raymond took home the silver in the men's 200-meter dash, and Marcus Quaker earned bronze in the men's heptathlon. Weekends like this are an integral part of what keeps Mountie Pride alive throughout campus and town.
 
Sheriff and his quartet, who competed in the 4x400 meter relay, earned 11th place amongst other impressive PSAC competition.