Chico State Athletics

Jahi Corbin of the Chico State men's track and field team was actually born, Jahi Jamil Corbin, with two first names. On Saturdays, he went to church for most of the day with his mom's side of the family. On Sunday, he went to church for most of the day with his dad's side of the family. As a Wildcat, he's participated in the long jump, high jump, and triple jump.
 
Doing extra since the very start, Corbin has not slowed down.
 
The Wildcat of the Week was recently placed on the Presidential Task Force to examine University Police policies and practices. He is also taking 17 units, running his own business, helping run another, and applying to grad schools. He's scheduled to graduate this spring with a degree in psychology and minor in entrepreneurship and small business management.
 
Spurred by the death of George Floyd and other Black men, along with the social unrest that followed, Corbin began to discuss the state of policing in America with a number of people during the summer. Wildcats Head Track and Field Coach Oliver Hanf was among them. Hanf connected Corbin with Chico State track and field alumni (and former assistant coach) Hakeem Dyson, who is currently serving as a Sacramento Police Officer.
 
As busy as ever, Corbin made time for their talks.
 
"We've had a lot of conversations, especially at the beginning of the semester. (Dyson) explained his role as a black man and police officer and shared his experiences with me," Corbin said. "He's shown me a good perspective of how an African American police officer goes through this world. I gained a lot from talking to him."
 
Corbin's proven passion surrounding the issue led to his placement on the Presidential task force. Corbin is thrilled to serve.
 
"It's a real honor to be part of something like this," Corbin said. "It's humbled me and helped me understand the importance of representing my fellow students. I haven't had any issues with police on our campus, but I know what it feels like to be addressed by an officer as an African American man. I definitely want to share my perspective and help make change in creating safer environments."
 
It is one of many areas Corbin hopes to make positive change. He co-founded Urz Health and Well-being with his brother and brother's finance in July.
 
"We want to create a facility that focuses on mental health through physical exertion," Corbin said. "We're hoping to provide folks with the skills to become more in tune with their evolutionary health."
 
Corbin also runs an investment group. However, his career focus remains on becoming a licensed professional counselor.
 
He credits his brother, his track and field team and the trials he has faced for providing him with the requisite purpose and drive.
 
"I had kind of a rough childhood and my brother was always helping to guide me and point me in the right direction. He gave me the willpower to go and be somebody," Corbin said. "Because of the experiences I had, I want to create jobs for my community. I want to create a whole healthcare revolution. I've always had this goal in mind because I've always wanted to impact millions of lives and help people know they are in charge of their journey."
 
Corbin's collegiate track and field experience did not go as expected. After missing his freshman year with an injury, he worked to get back into form, only to barely miss out on making the Wildcats' conference championship roster. Corbin was ready to crush his junior campaign before COVID-19 ended the season as soon as it started. His collegiate career effectively ended when the 2021 season was recently cancelled, as he is ready to move on to his next chapter of life.
 
However, Corbin thrived in the program's culture.
 
"There are so many good things about being a part of our track program, but if I could dial it down to one thing, it's the group of people who make you feel comfortable and that you really are part of a family,' Corbin said. "The family aspect of the track team has really helped me learn to embrace myself and my abilities. The community is super welcoming, loving and strong, and it brings a new energy to you. It makes you want to be great."

Do you know a Wildcat who deserves to be considered for a Wildcat of the Week honor? We're looking for current student-athletes who are making you proud athletically, academically, and/or in the community. If you have an idea, please take a moment to let us know by completing this five-question survey.