Friday, April 17, 2020

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.

Name: Amy Morris
Sport: Track and Field
Institution: Simon Fraser University
Year: Senior
Major: Chemistry and Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (Joint Major)
Hometown: Nanaimo, British Columbia

Why Did You Choose To Attend Simon Fraser?: I was intrigued by the unique opportunity to compete for Canada’s NCAA team. I wasn’t sure about which direction I wanted my academic interests to go in but because Simon Fraser is a comprehensive university with a variety of options, I knew it would be a great place for me to grow both academically and athletically.

What Is Your Favorite Class You Have Taken And Why?: My favorite class that I have taken is Literature and Performance. As someone who has always enjoyed reading, it was a nice change from all of the science classes that are required for my degree. I found all of the plays that we read to be interesting and I enjoyed analyzing the themes and ideas behind literature that is written for theatrical purposes.

Who Is Your Favorite Professor And What Did You Enjoy About Learning From Him Or Her?: My favorite professor is Jeff Warren. He has a unique and engaging teaching style. He is passionate about what he teaches. His sense of humor also makes an ordinary day of class fun.

Years Involved In SAAC: Two years.

The Reason You Chose To Get Involved In SAAC: In my first two years at Simon Fraser, I enjoyed participating in events, attending home games and getting to know other student-athletes. I wanted to be more active and work with other athletes to make a difference on campus and in the local community.

Most Memorable SAAC Activity To Date: One of my favorite things that I have done through SAAC is volunteering with Special Olympics. We are working on promoting this fun and rewarding experience to allow student-athletes to participate.

How Do You Feel Participating In SAAC Will Help You In Life After You Graduate?: Being a part of SAAC has allowed me to work with like-minded individuals to organize, plan and execute events. Through SAAC, I have developed teamwork, organization and leadership skills.

What Does It Mean To You To Be A Division II Student-Athlete?: Being a Division II student-athlete is a unique experience. It is competitive but being a part of it gives me the motivation to train hard every day and make the most of every opportunity.

What Is The Most Important Thing You’ve Learned About Balancing Athletics And Academics?: Balancing the demands of athletics and academics can be difficult but don’t let it overwhelm you. It is important to find time for yourself.

Biggest Obstacle Overcome During Your Collegiate Career: My biggest obstacle has been overcoming my self-doubt. It can be frustrating when you work hard for years and don’t see improvements in your performances. Over the last few years, I have had more lows than highs in terms of my performances. Running has always been about having fun more than anything else. I am always thankful for the opportunity to be able to run because it is what I love to do. I am also fortunate to have supportive and uplifting teammates who are always there for me.

Favorite Thing About Competing In The GNAC: I enjoy competing at the GNAC Championships. In addition to traveling and competing with my teammates, it is a great opportunity to get to know athletes from other GNAC schools.

Most Memorable Sports-Related Moment: At a meet in Portland last year, I came within half a second of my personal best in the 1,500 meters. I remember feeling so determined in that race. Even though I fell just short, it was one of the few races where I felt focused and was able to challenge myself.

If You Could Change One NCAA Rule, It Would Be: I would give student-athletes five years of eligibility. Many athletes take five years to complete their degrees, so instead of redshirting a year or not competing in their final year of college, I would want to give student-athletes the option to compete for a fifth year.

Current Mentor(s): I don’t have a specific mentor, but I am fortunate to be surrounded by many people with similar goals who also have a desire to be successful. I would not be where I am today without the teammates and coaches who have been there for me throughout my journey. I believe that people rarely achieve greatness alone. I make it a priority to find people with similar goals.

Best Advice You’d Give To An Incoming Freshman: College is a time to grow as an individual. Stay dedicated to your athletics and academics but also take advantage of every opportunity to grow and learn outside of your classes and your sport. Be open to meeting new people, find volunteer opportunities, join a club, attend social events, ask questions and be open-minded.

If You Could Spend The Day With One Person (Past Or Present), Who Would It Be (And Why)?: Taylor Swift. She has grown as an artist and person. In recent years, she has overcome obstacles and stands up for her beliefs. She is also a cat person and I love cats.

Extracurricular Activities: In addition to my athletics and academics, I am a member of the Toastmasters club and coach Special Olympics track and field in the spring.

Favorite Sports Team: Simon Fraser track and field.

Favorite Athlete: Gabriela DuBues-Stafford.

One Thing People Don’t Know About Me Is: I have two lava lamps and a plasma ball.