Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Part of a regular series.

Throughout the year, GNACsports.com uses this space to profile conference student-athletes who are members of their respective institutions' Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). In addition to providing feedback on the student-athlete experience, conference and institutional SAAC members also offer input on the rules, regulations, and policies that affect student-athletes' lives on NCAA member institution campuses. Click here for more information on the function of SAAC at the NCAA level.

Name: Daniel Calderon
Sport: Track & Field
School: Central Washington
Year: Sophomore
Major: Supply Chain Management
Hometown: Federal Way, Wash.

Extracurricular Activities: SALUTE Honor Society, Men's Track, SAAC

Why Did You Choose To Attend Central Washington: Central Washington was the ideal fit for me because of the size of the campus, environment and the track and field coaching staff.

What Is Your Favorite Class You Have Taken In College And Why: I loved my Philosophy 101 course. That class introduced me to another style of critical thinking that could be applied to the world.

Years Involved In SAAC: 1

The Reason You Chose To Get Involved In SAAC: I want to contribute and/or create improvements within the athletic community and facilities. SAAC is a great opportunity for meeting new like-minded individuals who want to create change in their own schools. SAAC is a program where the leadership and participation of students can directly affect the future of athletics at each respective school.

Most Memorable SAAC Activity: My most memorable activity with SAAC was being given the opportunity to volunteer at a local elementary school and judge a talent show. Participating was a fun and enthusiastic experience that felt great to be a part of.

If You Could Change One NCAA Rule, It Would Be: I would support greater consequences for drug abuse, including alcohol, and the use of performance-enhancing drugs.

What Is The Most Important Thing You've Learned From Balancing The Demands Of Athletics And Academics: Anything is possible and choosing to challenge yourself will only improve your overall knowledge and determination to succeed. Adversity is a necessity for growth.

What Does It Mean To Be A Division II Student-Athlete: Being a Division II student-athlete means that you are a representative of your school and NCAA as a whole. A student-athlete must uphold the academic responsibilities as well as give it his or her all in their respective sport.

Current Mentor: Darren Arndt, who recently graduated from CWU and was involved in track and field and SAAC.

Future Goals After School: Earn a six-figure salary with a professional career in the business world on the east side of the United States. Philanthropist.

Biggest Obstacle Overcome During Collegiate Career: Competing with older, more experienced athletes as a freshman.

Best Advice You Would Give To An Incoming Freshman: Stay determined, know your priorities and avoid temptations.

If You Could Spend The Day With One Person (Past Or Present), Who Would It Be (And Why): Kobe Bryant. I would want to speak with him about his career and how he obtained the famous "Mamba Mentality."

Favorite Sports Team: Boston Celtics

Favorite Athlete: Charles Barkley

Most Memorable Sports-Related Moment: My most memorable sports-related moment was when my high school 4x400-meter relay took first at the 2016 WIAA State Championship Meet.

One Thing That People Don't Know About Me Is: I am also a part-time soldier in the United States Army Reserve.