Friday, December 8, 2023

Part of a regular series:
Throughout the year, GNACsports.com uses this space to profile conference student-athletes who are members of their respective institution's 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-athlete’s lives on NCAA member campuses.

Name: Brennan LeBlanc
Sport: Cross Country / Track
Institution: Seattle Pacific University
Year: Junior
Major: BS Computer Science, Minor in Data Analytics
Hometown: Duvall, Washington

What has been your favorite class and/or professor: Taking 'Concepts and Computer Programming' with Dr. Arias has been the highlight of my academic journey. Dr. Arias, my favorite professor, has provided an immersive experience of the structures of various coding languages and their functionality. This class has not only honed my coding skills but has significantly boosted my confidence in the vast field of Computer Science. Dr. Arias has a unique teaching style that makes the class enjoyable and light-hearted while ensuring that we grasp the essential information crucial for our future careers. Beyond traditional lectures, he introduces engaging projects that serve as both a test of our knowledge and an opportunity to explore new coding languages. These projects have been instrumental in deepening my understanding and expanding my skill set. I appreciate Dr. Arias's passion for the subject matter and his commitment to the success of each student in the class. His encouragement and approachability create a positive and inclusive learning environment. It's educators like Dr. Arias who not only teach the subject but also inspire and empower students to thrive in the dynamic field of Computer Science. This class has been a cornerstone of my academic journey, thanks to Dr. Arias's dedication and the engaging learning experiences he provides.

Why did you choose to attend Seattle Pacific: I chose to attend Seattle Pacific University for its exceptional computer science program and the opportunity to compete as a Falcon. During my visit, I was impressed by the vibrant athletic community and the dedication of the computer science department. Both demonstrated a passion for nurturing students and fostering personal growth. Despite facing challenges from the Board of Directors at SPU, the resilience of the athletic community, faculty, and students has created an environment dedicated to learning and growth. This perseverance is a testament to the strong sense of community at SPU. The hardships faced by the university have not dampened the commitment to cultivating a place of learning and personal development. It is this spirit that defines why I am proud to be a Falcon. The shared dedication to overcoming challenges and creating a positive environment for students aligns with my values, making SPU the perfect place for my academic and athletic journey.

Years involved in SAAC: 2

What has been the most rewarding about being a part of SAAC: One of the most rewarding aspects of my involvement with the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) has been the opportunity to meet and learn from my counterparts across the GNAC. Witnessing the way they represent themselves and their passionate dedication to enhancing their school's athletic community has been truly inspiring. Interacting with these fellow representatives has not only given me valuable insights but has also instilled the confidence to initiate positive changes at my own school. Collaborating with them, bouncing ideas, and brainstorming ways to improve athletics at the D2 level has been an enriching experience. These interactions have reinforced my belief in the collective power of student-athletes to make a meaningful impact. The SAAC representatives I've had the privilege of meeting are genuinely wonderful people, and the camaraderie we've developed has been nothing short of amazing. Being part of this network has not only broadened my perspective but has also fueled my passion for contributing to the betterment of D2 athletics.

What is the most important thing you've learned from balancing the demands of athletics and academics: The most important thing I have learned is to take the time to fit in breaks to just relax and breathe with no distractions. This has stopped me from burning out and has enhanced my focus, as well as made me happier throughout my day.

Most memorable sports-related moment: The most memorable sports-related moment was being able to step on the cross-country course again after COVID-19. During the pandemic, it seemed that things would never go back to the way they were, and I wouldn't be able to compete again. But it was one of the best feelings being able, once COVID-19 had lifted, to step on the line again to race.

My favorite things about being part of the GNAC and NCAA DII are: Being able to be able to pursue my education to the fullest while being able to compete at the D2 level.

Best advice I’d give to an incoming freshman: The best advice would be to reach out to your fellow athletes and teammates to create a strong community with them. These people will raise your standards and make you a better person. They will teach you that it is okay to fail, it is okay to be vulnerable, and the value of reaching out. These are the people you will make lasting connections with and will make your college experience wholesome.

What is the biggest obstacle you have overcome during your collegiate career: The biggest obstacle that I have had to overcome is my lack of confidence in myself, and the self-doubt that I would have carried around in the past. It was the biggest blockade in the way of my education and my performance. By taking the time to focus on myself, and reach out to those who could help me, I have been able to overcome this. My academics and performance have changed immensely for the better because of it.

Current mentor: My mentor has been Abhi Thoart, who has shown me the world of cybersecurity and has taught me to always keep learning no matter what situation you are in.

What hobbies/passions do you have outside of your sport: I like to read outside of running. It is a way that I can escape into another world.

One thing that people don't know about me is: One thing that people don't know about me is I love to cook, though I may not be the best at it. It is one way I am to relax and zone out, plus I am always hungry.

Future goals after graduation: My future goals after graduation it to move into triathlons and be able to pursue a career in cyber-security or software development.

A podcast or book that I recommend to other student-athletes: Your World Within by Eddie Pinero. He does a great job of making you think positively about life and brings a passion to the podcast that is great and motivates you.