Student-athletes have a voice in the NCAA through advisory committees at the campus, conference, and national level. Each committee is made up of student-athletes assembled to provide insight on the student-athlete experience and offer input on the rules, regulations and policies that affect student-athletes' lives on campus.
Functions of Campus SAAC:
- Promote communication between athletics administration and student-athletes
- Disseminate information
- Provide feedback and insight into athletics department issues
- Generate a student-athlete voice within the campus athletics department formulation of policies
- Build a sense of community within the athletics program involving all athletics teams
- Solicit student-athlete responses to proposed conference and NCAA legislation
- Organize community service efforts
- Create a vehicle for student-athlete representation on campus-wide committees (e.g., student government)
- Promote a positive student-athlete image on campus
Members of a campus SAAC have the opportunity to address issues affecting student-athletes at their institution; furthermore, members have the opportunity to offer input on issues which may be national in scope.
The campus committee is meant to serve as a local student-athlete voice in addressing issues of student-athlete welfare at their respective institutions. Campus committees can facilitate better communication among student-athletes from various athletics teams to address issues common to all.
The campus SAAC may also serve as a conduit of communication among student-athletes, coaches and athletics administrators on issues to improve the student-athlete experience and promote growth and education through sports participation. Concerns can be voiced and solutions offered regarding any issue that may be relevant to NCAA student-athletes.
Through the grass-roots efforts of campus SAACs, student-athletes have the opportunity to change the face of intercollegiate athletics.
Bridgewater College SAAC:
Each athletic program is represented by 2-3 student-athletes
Leadership Opportunities include:
- On-campus leadership conference, attended by two student-athletes per program
- D3 Week planning
- Serve as facilitators for First-Year Leadership workshop
- Attend ODAC SAAC Conference
Events include:
- Community service projects with Special Olympics, St. Jude, Bridgewater Retirement Community and more
- "Golden Eagle Awards": year-end athletics awards show voted on by SAAC members
- "Bleed Crimson" games: a department initiative to create unity and support for all teams
- D3 Week: a week-long celebration of Division III athletics each spring
Follow Bridgewater SAAC on Twitter @BridgewaterSAAC and Instagram @bridgewatercollegesaac!
2021-22 Bridgewater College SAAC Leadership Team:
Claire Ashley, Field Hockey
Vincent Leo, Men's Cross Country
Lexia Werner, Cheerleading
Jessica Touve, Women's Swimming
Elena Larcombe, Women's Cross Country
