Nov. 17, 2009

A student-athlete advisory committee (SAAC) is a committee made up of student-athletes assembled to provide insight on the student-athlete experience and offers input on the rules, regulations and polices that affect their lives on NCAA member institution campuses.

NCAA legislation mandates that all member institutions have SAACs on their respective campuses. Further, NCAA legislation requires that all member conferences have SAACs. From individual campus committees to the conference and national committees, each interact and support one another to shape intercollegiate athletics policy and enhance the student-athlete experience. Membership in this organization is open to those persons who are enrolled at the University of San Diego and who also participate in one of the seventeen intercollegiate sports teams on campus.

Functions of campus SAACs:

• 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.

It may also serve as a medium 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 efforts of campus SAACs, student-athletes have the opportunity to change the face of intercollegiate athletics.

The University of San Diego - SAAC Executive Board oversees the operation of USD SAAC and any standing subcommittees (toy drive, celebration of excellence, attendance committee).

President: Conrad Smith

Co-Vice President: Dana Dancey

Co-Vice President: Haley Pittman

West Coast Conference SAAC Representative: Gina Schneider

West Coast Conference SAAC Representative: Tony Strazzara

Inter Club Council Representative: Melissa Lupinacci