From April 7-13, the NCAA celebrates Division III Week --
seven days devoted to the accomplishments of the student-athletes
in D3. The goal of the celebration is to raise awareness of
Heidelberg and other D3 schools across the nation.
This story is the second of a six-part series highlighting
the student-athletes at Heidelberg University. It was written
by Logan Burd, a senior English major from Tiffin.
For more information on Heidelberg's D3 Week activities,
visit the D3 Week homepage.
-----
On Saturday, March 22, Heidelberg University's Student Athletic
Advisory Committee (SAAC) traveled with over 50 collegiate athletes
from various teams to Bowling Green High School to assist with the
annual statewide basketball tournament for Special Olympics
Ohio.
The Heidelberg student-athletes assisted with shooting,
dribbling and passing drills being run by the Special Olympians,
escorted Olympians to and from events and helped award the
Olympians medals.
"It was a truly awesome experience," said SAAC member and
football player Austin Hunter. "I never wanted to leave."
For the past several years, NCAA Division III and the Special
Olympics have enjoyed a partnership. By teaming up, the NCAA and
Special Olympics has fostered a mutual learning experience for all
involved.
The event in Bowling Green was transformative for SAAC members
and their advisor, Corey Fillipovich.
"As a coach you are always worried about wins and losses," said
Fillipovich, the director of football operations. "But this day
puts into perspective that life is not all about the wins and
losses. ... The benefits that each student-athlete gained cannot be
measured."
Christina Neal, a SAAC member who plays soccer and basketball,
added, "The event staff that we volunteered with absolutely loved
our help."
In addition to her service with Special Olympics, Neal has
volunteered around the community as well, helping area children by
serving as bus monitor and helping local schools teach art.
Throughout his DIII athletic career, Hunter, a starting
offensive lineman, has also volunteered at United Way, the Humane
Society and at a local assisted living facility.
Reflecting on his experience as a Special Olympics volunteer, he
added, "I feel that our entire volunteer staff as well as myself
benefited greatly. I think every volunteer genuinely enjoyed
working with the athletes and their families."
One of the hallmarks of NCAA Division III athletics is the
dedication of developing responsible leaders and citizens.
"You have males and females who play the game only because they
love their sport," said Fillipovich, who played football at OAC
rival Muskingum University. "They are not here simply because of a
scholarship or to play professionally. D3 student-athletes have the
passion and desire to become well-rounded individuals."
Hunter encouraged high school athletes to consider a Division
III school. He summarized the DIII experience. "You aren't just
known for athletic achievements. "People recognize you for the
things you have done to better the community."
Neal has always been proud of her choice to attend a D3
school.
"Have I regretted it? Honestly, not once," said Neal, a native
of Tennessee.
Heidelberg University and the SAAC is currently developing plans
to bring a Special Olympics event to campus, to further the
relationship of service they began last month.
