Hurley Elementary School recently created a Guys in Ties group whose core mission is to inspire young boys to develop greater expectations for themselves and those around them.

The group presents the boys with the keys to overcome obstacles they may face — emotional, real-life situations such as dealing with friends at school or home, or building self-esteem.

The program has core topics the boys at Hurley will focus on throughout the year — self-esteem, manners, conflict resolution, gratitude, sportsmanship and positive relationships.

Members of Man Up Monday Men help with this program.

On Feb. 19, Hurley held a “Dab for Dads” activity that focused on sportsmanship. All the boys in the school and their dads or guardians were invited to attend. Catawba College, Livingstone College, West Rowan High School football players, West Rowan baseball players and Man Up Monday Men were all present to encourage the boys to set their expectations high, keep positive attitudes, and learn why school is important.

“The smiles that radiated off the faces of our young students made this event all worthwhile,” said Terrie Tidwell, Title I interventionist. “Standing before the athletes, knowing that could one day be them, set great visions in many of their minds. Hearing the questions of ‘How did you get to become a star player’ and statements like ‘ I want to be just like you one day’ filled the room.”

Tidwell thanked all the coaches, athletes, fathers, grandparents, Man Up Monday Men members, the staff and students who made the program a success. Tidwell started the Guys in Ties group and planned the program.