Behrend Athletics Releases NCAA Champs Dates for Upcoming Season

Penn State Behrend Champs Life Skills Program 2009-10 Schedule

CHAMPS: Challenging Athletic Minds for Personal Success

The CHAMPS program started at Penn State Behrend in 2002 and is supported by the NCAA.  The program is funded by PSB Athletics and the NCAA; there is a limited budget but CHAMPS manages to get what they need because the Behrend administration is very willing to help student-athletes.  Student athletes have been receptive to programming; a trend which Athletics hopes will continue.  The program was developed to enhance the student-athlete's intellectual development and preparation for success in life, to meet the needs of student-athletes, promote respect for diversity, and build self esteem.

CHAMPS is administered by a committee of the Athletic Director, CHAMPS Coordinator, and a contingent of Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC) members.  SAAC is a committee made up of athletes from all varsity sports.

CHAMPS was created in 1991 by the NCAA Foundation and Division 1A Athletics Directors Association and later offered to all NCAA members in 1994.  CHAMPS/Life Skills is overseen by the NCAA Education Outreach staff.

The NCAA provides resources and grants to address each of the five disciplines listed in the purpose statement.  At PSB, CHAMPS committee members determine the needs of the student athletes and develop programming to affect the students positively. 

September 24: Sue Daley, Personal Counseling (risky business/personal safety)

November 5 or November 19: Elaine Penn, (student activities and athletics) MANDATORY for all student-athletes.

January 21: Melissa Wilson, (sports nutrition)

Febuary 11: Jan Brady, (financial aid)

March 18: Andy Iams and Harmilee Cousin III, (leadership unlimited)

April TBA: Special Olympics, Junker Center 9:00-1:00 p.m.