Friday, June 14, 2019

Part of a regular series.

Throughout the year, GNACsports.com uses this space to profile conference student-athletes, coaches, and administrators. Collectively, it is these individuals who make the GNAC one of the top NCAA Division II athletic conferences in the nation.

Name: Andrew Lafrenz
Institution: Concordia
Title: Professor of Kinesiology and Behavioral Epidemiology
Years at Institution: 4
Hometown: Portland, Oregon

Colleges Attended: Bachelor of Science in biology at the University of Portland, Master of Science in kinesiology at University of Georgia, and Master of Public Health in epidemiology and Ph.D. in public health from Oregon State University. 

Research Area: Study of the psychosocial and environmental correlation of chronic disease related to nutrition and physical activity, maternal and child health related to nutrition and physical activity, sedentary behavior in occupational settings, motivational factors related to physical activity and nutrition behavior change, and evaluation of behavior change interventions. 

Why Did You Decide To Become A Faculty Athletic Representative:  I was an NCAA Division I track/cross-country student-athlete at the University of Portland and the University of Georgia. I coached for both of those programs as well. When I went full-time into academics, I missed having a role and connection with student-athletes and college sports. When the FAR position became vacant at Concordia, I thought that with my background and passion for student-athletes and sports it would be a great fit.

Biggest Obstacle Overcome As A Professional: Work-life balance. Having a passion for teaching, research and service makes it tough to find balance for life.

Favorite Part Of Your Job: Mentoring and inspiring young students.

What Does Division II Mean To You: Division II means a more balanced approach to both academics and athletics.

Extracurricular Activities: I am a part-time ski instructor and surf, fly fish and mountain bike in my free time.

Best Advice You’d Give To Student-Athletes: Find balance in everything you do. Academics, athletics, relationships and personal growth are all important.

If You Could Spend The Day With One Person (Past Or Present), Who Would It Be (And Why): Sir Roger Bannister. He was the first to run a sub four-minute mile while many thought the four-minute barrier couldn't be broken. He also achieved that feat while practicing medicine as a physician. His ability to push the boundaries of what was physically possible all while having a demanding full-time job is truly inspiring.

Favorite Sports Team: University of Georgia Football. Go Dawgs!

Favorite Athlete: Laird Hamilton - Revolutionary Big Wave Surfer.

Most Memorable FAR Moment: Getting to know all of the other GNAC FARs at my first FARA conference. As a new and young FAR they have given me such great advice and guidance in this role.