Alumnus Profile: Robert Crowley BA ‘15
Robert then transferred to Saint Mary’s College of California, citing the reputation of the school’s Kinesiology program and the opportunity to emphasize in Sport & Recreation Management as his main reason. Being in close proximity to home as well as numerous potential work opportunities, Robert knew that he did not need to go to a larger school. He enjoyed the smaller class sizes, and described the Department of Kinesiology at Saint Mary’s as “having instructors that really care about their students, providing an inclusive experience, and bringing perspectives that help students after graduation as well. And that’s unique for such a small college.” Robert’s most memorable professors include Drs. Deane Lamont, Steve Miller, and Claire Williams, who all tremendously assisted him during his experience.
Prior to graduating from SMC, a coach at Laney College offered Robert the opportunity to help the football team. Because he enjoyed the experience so much, Robert knew that he wanted to continue working at the junior college level post-graduation. He earned a Master of Sports Science from the United States Sports Academy before applying for a job at Laney College. After being initially rejected, he applied again and became the head coach of the women’s track and field team, assistant coach of the football team, and is a full-time instructor of kinesiology/health/sports classes.
Robert Crowley had the unique experience of coaching a team while being filmed for Netflix’s Last Chance U, a show that highlights smaller colleges that do not get much national attention. He described it as “a cool experience, but weird being on the other side of a reality TV show.” Having everything you do and say be recorded took everyone a while to get used to, however, it provided Laney College with a lot of positive national recognition. Another unique experience Robert is currently dealing with today is COVID. With in-person interactions not advisable, he has had to find ways to keep his athletes in shape and students engaged, all through Zoom. It was not until recently that Robert was allowed to begin in-person training on campus once again. In true Lasallian spirit, Robert has made an extra effort during the pandemic to help under-resourced students. Whether it is helping a student obtain a laptop or reliable internet, Robert makes sure everybody knows he is there to help them.
Robert does not have any long term aspirations, choosing instead to remain focused on the present. He enjoys his work at Laney and wants to continue “influencing others, and spreading positivity. That’s what's most important to me right now.” He ultimately credits Saint Mary’s and the Department of Kinesiology as they had a “huge impact in setting me up for life after college.”