Coaches, officers and broadcasters have enlisted in Men Against Domestic Violence over the past five years, and in a panel discussion at Central Connecticut State University, members met students involved in a new effort called College Athlete Peer Ambassadors.
"Men and women on this college campus aren't really sure what a healthy relationship is," explained Morgan Wallace, a women's lacrosse player. "Some things aren't OK. Like for me to repeatedly text you, 'Where are you? Where are you?' that would be a sign of an unhealthy relationship.
Both groups are supported by Interval House, a shelter for battered women, which has seen a surge in interest since former NFL star Ray Rice was caught on camera beating his wife.
Champion CCSU sprinter Jamal Fruster told the panel his mother had been a victim of domestic violence before he was born.
"I'm starting to realize the impact I can have, not just on my college but back in high school," he said. "People really do look up to us student-athletes and I think going forward we can have a very big impact."
Sen. Richard Blumenthal suggested the men's group's next steps might be engaging high school students.
NBC Connecticut anchor and Troubleshooter Brad Drazen suggested even younger students. But Interval House officials said many schools don't want to hear it.
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"It's sad, isn't it?" said Rosemary Padin, the executive director. "A lot of time they think it has to do with sex education and they save that for certain grade levels."
