Friday, April 3, 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: Chris Penner
Sport: Men’s Basketball
Institution: Seattle Pacific University
Year: Freshman
Major: Biochemistry
Hometown: Olympia, Washington

Why Did You Choose To Attend Seattle Pacific?: Seattle Pacific is close to home and offered the opportunity for me to obtain a good education while continuing to play the sport that I love at a high level.

What Is Your Favorite Class You Have Taken And Why?: General Chemistry was my first class in college. The professor created a welcoming environment and it was a perfect transition from high school to college.

Who Is Your Favorite Professor And What Did You Enjoy About Learning From Him Or Her?: Dr. John Mouser was always curious about how my season was going and made his class a fun environment to learn in.

Years Involved In SAAC: One year.

The Reason You Chose To Get Involved In SAAC: My athletic advisor and coach encouraged me to get involved and I’m glad I did.

How Do You Feel Participating In SAAC Will Help You In Life After You Graduate?: Participating in SAAC has helped me to realize the importance of giving back to the community in any way possible.

What Does It Mean To You To Be A Division II Student-Athlete?: Being a Division II student-athlete means that I will be competing on the court at a high level while also receiving a good education.

What Is The Most Important Thing You’ve Learned About Balancing Athletics And Academics?: Time management is critical, especially during the season.

Biggest Obstacle Overcome During Your Collegiate Career: Coming back from injuries.

Favorite Thing About Competing In The GNAC: The competitive atmosphere.

Most Memorable Sports-Related Moment: The state basketball tournament during my senior year of high school.

Current Mentor(s): My parents.

Best Advice You’d Give To An Incoming Freshman: Don’t overload your credits during your first quarter.

If You Could Spend The Day With One Person (Past Or Present), Who Would It Be (And Why)?: Kobe Bryant. He was such a big role model to many and inspired me in so many ways.

Extracurricular Activities: Fishing, boating and hiking.

Future Goals After Graduation: I plan to attend medical school and specialize in dermatology.

Favorite Sports Team: Seattle Seahawks.

Favorite Athlete: Kristaps Porzingis.

One Thing People Don’t Know About Me Is: I have loved to fish ever since I was a child.