Friday, October 9, 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: Sydney Rochford
Sport: Women's Golf
Institution: Montana State University Billings
Year: Senior
Major: Business Management
Hometown: Three Forks, Montana

Why Did You Choose To Attend Montana State Billings?: Montana State Billings felt like a perfect fit for me because the campus is very close-knit. The business program is also nationally recognized with many knowledgeable professors.

What Is Your Favorite Class You Have Taken And Why?: Interpersonal Communication was my favorite class so far because I learned how to communicate and actively listen. This class was eye-opening for me because we learned about different perceptions that people of different backgrounds can have.

Who Is Your Favorite Professor And What Did You Enjoy About Learning From Him Or Her?: Dr. Deborah Schaffer is my favorite professor because she has a passion for writing and is dedicated to helping students. I will apply what I learned in her class for the rest of my life.

Years Involved In SAAC: Four years.

The Reason You Chose To Get Involved In SAAC: I enjoy being a voice for student-athletes and discussing ideas for change among my peers. I love being involved on campus and meeting new people.

Most Memorable SAAC Activity To Date: One year, each team decorated jugs that were used to collect change for Make-A-Wish.

How Do You Feel Participating In SAAC Will Help You In Life After You Graduate?: Being a member of SAAC has challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and develop leadership skills.

What Does It Mean To You To Be A Division II Student-Athlete?: It means that I am fortunate enough to continue my golf career at a high level and pursue my educational goals while having fun along the way.

What Is The Most Important Thing You’ve Learned About Balancing Athletics And Academics?: Even though balancing homework and practice can be stressful, at the end of the day, student-athletes are students first. As much as I love my sport, I have to think about my future beyond athletics and invest time into my goals.

Biggest Obstacle Overcome During Your Collegiate Career: Losing time that could have been spent traveling and being with my teammates due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Favorite Thing About Competing In The GNAC: The good-hearted and competitive atmosphere.

Most Memorable Sports-Related Moment: Any trip with my teammates and coaches has endless laughs and memories.

If You Could Change One NCAA Rule, It Would Be: Collegiate golfers should be able to receive compensation for giving lessons.

Current Mentor(s): My grandparents.

Best Advice You’d Give To An Incoming Freshman: Stay committed to your studies but also be sure to set aside time to make memories with your friends because it will be over before you know it.

If You Could Spend The Day With One Person (Past Or Present), Who Would It Be (And Why)?: I would play 18 holes with Tiger Woods because he has experienced every high and low as an athlete and person. While he would probably have some good advice on the course, he would also have some knowledgeable insights on life too.

Extracurricular Activities: I am involved in the National Society of Leadership and Success as well as SAAC. I also am a student worker on campus. On my days off, you will find me spending time with my family, usually outdoors.

Future Goals After Graduation: Land a career in my field and continue to stay active at my local golf course.

Favorite Sports Team: Los Angeles Dodgers.

Favorite Athlete: Tiger Woods.

One Thing People Don’t Know About You Is: I was raised in a very Southern household.