ONEONTA, N.Y. - The Oneonta athletics department wrapped up a successful NCAA Division III Week on Apr. 13. The Red Dragons hosted five events on campus and participated in various community service projects.
Division III week started on Mon. Apr. 7, with the Oneonta Athletics Alumni Panel, which over 300 students, faculty, and staff attended. Eight former Red Dragon student-athletes discussed how Oneonta influenced their career paths and transition from student-athlete life to the workplace.
On Wed. Apr. 9, Oneonta inducted 30 student-athletes into the Chi Alpha Sigma National Honors Society at its annual luncheon, which was held in Morris Grille. Chi Alpha Sigma is a nonprofit organization that recognizes college student-athletes who excel on and off the field of competition. Additionally, 25 students volunteered at the Oneonta Boys and Girls Club sports day.
The week continued with the Nutrition for Performance Expo and Red Dragon Family Feud on Thur. Apr. 10. At the Nutrition for Performance Expo, students learned about topics related to nutrition, hydration, fueling for sport, and more. There were also games and activities at each station. Red Dragon Family Feud was Oneonta's take on the popular game show. The Red Dragon athletics teams faced off against each other on various topics. All 21 varsity teams participated, with Oneonta baseball claiming the title.
Oneonta Athletics also participated in the "Path to Healing." Community Event and Resource Fair held in Wilber Park. The walk began at SUNY Oneonta and ended at Wilber Park. At the park, there were food trucks, music, vendors, and more. The night ended with a candlelight vigil and stories from survivors.
D3 Week concluded with the EDD Adaptive Basketball Clinic at the Alumni Field House on Sat. Apr. 12. Around 20 Oneonta student-athletes volunteers helped teach drills about dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense. With participants ranging from 6 to 60, modified basketball hoops and other equipment allowed every athlete to maximize their performance.
About NCAA Division III Week
Division III Week is a positive opportunity for all individuals associated with a Division III institution to observe and celebrate the impact athletics and student-athletes have on campus and in the surrounding community. During the week, every Division III school and conference office is encouraged to conduct an outreach activity that falls into one of three categories: academic accomplishment, athletic experience, or leadership/community service/campus involvement. Division III Week is a strategic initiative that achieves its desired impact from a unity of effort. It harnesses everyone working toward the same goal at the same time to build a greater awareness and understanding of Division III athletics.
