Friday, January 5, 2024

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: Kai Brandt-Templeton
Sport: Women's Rugby
Institution: Central Washington University
Year: Senior
Major: Public Health
Hometown: Santa Cruz, California

What has been your favorite class and/or professor and why: My favorite class thus far has been Forensic Skeletal Analysis. I went into this class blind just taking it because it sounded interesting and I ended up enjoying it. The privilege to handle human bones and educationally observe them was really special. This class got me interested in Forensic and inspired me to pursue the Forensic certificate at CWU.

Why did you choose to attend Central Washington University: I chose Central mainly for the competitive rugby program but also for the positive and inclusive environment the university upholds. Since we have a smaller athletic community, we are very tight-knit which makes the experience far better than what I imagined. The class sizes are small enough that you’re able to create professional relationships with professors, which I admire about CWU.

Years involved in SAAC: 3

What has been the most rewarding about being a part of SAAC: The most rewarding thing about SAAC is the increased involvement I have within the community through athletics and community outreach. Being able to create change and plan events that people enjoy is just one of the highlights of SAAC.

What is the most important thing you've learned from balancing the demands of athletics and academics: I’ve learned how important it is to make time for myself that does not involve my sport. I try to spend time not being a student or athlete, it’s a breath of fresh air.

Most memorable sports-related moment: My most memorable moments come from traveling around the country with my amazing teammates. Experiencing new places with my team means the world to me.

My favorite thing about being part of the GNAC and NCAA DII are: I enjoy the camaraderie.

The best advice I’d give to an incoming freshman: Enjoy it while it lasts and develop a brand for yourself to carry throughout your professional and athletic career.

What is the biggest obstacle you have overcome during your collegiate career: Learning to embrace failure.

What hobbies/passions do you have outside of your sport: Hiking, camping, surfing, and pottery.

Future goals after graduation: I plan to attend graduate school and earn a Master of Public Health. I would also enjoy the opportunity to play professional rugby.