An Overview of SUNYAC Athletics

The first time I ever raced a mile, I was in the 7^th grade. That day I was very proud of my time of 6:56. Since then, I have been running cross-country and track, logging over 8,000 miles. Last winter, I ran 4:46 indoors for the mile. Being able to compete in college was a major factor when I was deciding which school to attend. The best choice for me was a State University that allowed me to run as well as receive a well-rounded education. Today I would like to talk about New York State collegiate athletics. I have been a participant in collegiate athletics for over a year, competing in three seasons each academic year. I have also been a two-time Student-Athlete Advisory Committee representative for Oneonta, so I feel qualified to accurately discuss the following information. First I would like to give you a background of the SUNYAC conference, followed by the community service completed by the institutions, as well as Oneonta State's contributions. Many of you may be wondering what SUNYAC even stands for.

SUNYAC stands for State University of New York Athletic Conference. According to SUNYAC publicist Josh Reilly, the conference was formed in 1958 with the intent of serving as a model for public school athletic organizations, as well as strengthening the physical education programs of its members. By the 1970s, the conference was more geared toward providing intercollegiate competition among its members. Today there are 11 active universities, competing in 20 different sports. Participating schools are Brockport, Buffalo State, Cortland, Fredonia, Geneseo, New Paltz, Oneonta, Oswego, Plattsburgh, Potsdam and SUNYIT. Each school is a state school that competes within NCAA Division III, which is the largest division. According to a September 2004 study by the NCAA, DIII is made up of 443 institutions, and almost 150,000 athletes, which is almost 40% of all collegiate athletes. Because it is a DIII conference, there are no athletic scholarships offered. "Division III athletics features student-athletes who receive no financial aid related to their athletic ability and athletic departments are staffed and funded like any other department in the university." (DeAnna Stephens, NCAA publicist, February 1, 2007) Being one of 37 Division III conferences in the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletics Association), the SUNYAC has had its share of championship appearances. Since its formation, SUNY schools have captured 32 national championship team titles, with Cortland having the most. Since its formation almost 50 years ago, the SUNYAC conference has developed into one of the strongest and most respected conferences in Division III. Now that we've had general look at the conference's background, let's take a look at its commitment to community service.

NCAA president Myles Brand said, "Intercollegiate athletics is proof that the modern American university experience is much more than lectures and tests." When I read this, I think how athletics helps individuals become well rounded students, and how athletics separates athletes from the average student. Higher standards come with being a collegiate athlete. Some of those responsibilities include strict disiplinary measures, academic requirments, and a commitment to community involvment. Institutions throughout the country feel it is important to give back to the community that supports the athletic programs. The same is true for the SUNYAC. Every year, each member of the conference participates in a state wide community service project. This past Sunday was the annual Leaf Rake, in which the entire athletic department from every SUNY school volunteered their time. Last year, over 1,500 athletes participated. In addition, each sports team does separate projects throughout the year. By volunteering their time, athletes are able to become leaders who are respected for their actions. Oneonta State Director of Athletics Tracey Ranieri said, "We are proud that our student athletes accept the responsibility of being an important role model on our campus and in the community." The SUNYAC conference is committed to developing athletes who are active in community involvement, and are well rounded, in academics, athletics, and leadership. Through this leadership, student-athletes are able to be involved and give back to their communities. Now we will take a look at how Oneonta State has made an impact on the SUNYAC conference.

As one of the original members of the SUNYAC conference, Oneonta State has become a leading university in the system. In the past 10 years alone, there have been 49 DIII All-Americans, as well as 9 Academic All-Americans. (2007-2008 Oneonta State Athletic Guide, Pg. 2) This includes one national team title (Women's Soccer-2003), and one individual title (Musu-Jackson Buckner, 200 meters-2006). Also, Oneonta's athletic facilities are some of the nicest in the state, including the soccer field, baseball and softball fields, lacrosse and field hockey turfs, and the outdoor track facility. With the departments' recent success, the future will include even better training and competition facilities. In addition, Oneonta's athletic department is actively involved in community service. Just recently, the department participated in the Leaf Rake, as well as hosting a Fun Run to help benefit the Salvation Army. As Oneonta athletes continue to excel on the field, in the classroom, and in the community, the school reputation grows within our conference and the nation. Let's now review the topics covered.

For almost 50 years now, the SUNYAC conference has continued to grow and produce hundreds of well-rounded athletes. Each school within the SUNYAC conference is a well rounded institution aimed at giving the best education and athletic experience to student-athletes. By being active within the community, universities are able to gain support and help their athletic programs grow. Here at Oneonta, our program continues to be a role model as we produce results on and off the field. Choosing Oneonta was a good choice for me, and I'm looking forward to competing for another 8 seasons.