The annual Golden Eagle Golf Classic was held on Nov. 4 at the Coto de Caza Golf Club and allowed Concordia’s student-athletes to represent Concordia Athletics and connect with donors. 

The student-athletes who attended the event are members of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee or SACC. Hunter Hornaday is a senior thrower on the track and field team and a member of SAAC. "The overall purpose of SAAC is giving student-athletes on campus a voice," said Hornaday. 

In order to ensure that student-athletes are heard and that their interests are represented in decisions that impact them, this committee provides an opportunity for athletes to communicate their ideas, opinions and concerns to the administration. 

Being a part of SAAC is an honor for Hornaday. "It means a lot…the school has put a lot of trust in us as a committee to be a voice for athletes." As a student-athlete, Hornaday knows how important it is to stand up for his teammates and ensure they have the resources they require to succeed on and off the field or court.

Helping out at fundraisers like the Golden Eagle Golf Classic is one of the opportunities involved with being part of SAAC. "Our role at the event is to interact with donors," said Hornaday. Crystal Rosenthal, Associate Vice President of Athletics, and Brittany Pereda, Assistant Athletic Director of Operations, encourage SAAC student-athletes to attend events like this to create deeper connections and community with the donors to represent Concordia and the Athletic Department.

This year was Hornaday’s third year attending the Golden Eagle Golf Classic. “Being a part of this event is just awesome. I assist with the post-dinner after their tee time," he explained. "I’m just there to converse with them and let them know that the student-athletes care." The event has served as a means for Hornaday to engage with the community, generate funds for the department and express gratitude to the sponsors of their programs.

This fundraising event has a long history with Concordia. "I'm a senior, and this event has taken place even before me," Hornaday said. 

With a high attendance each year, the Golden Eagle Golf Classic is a vital component of Concordia’s athletic program. "At a minimum, we get 72 golfers, but it’s usually 75 or more," said Hornaday. With the aim of increasing the amount of money raised to help the athletes who represent the university in both athletics and academics, the event grows every year.

Tags: sports

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