HAMPDEN-SYDNEY, Va. -- Hampden-Sydney College junior men's golf team member Tucker Smith (Richmond) has been selected to represent the College and the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) on the NCAA Division III National Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). According to the NCAA website, he is one of 43 student-athletes from across the country who will serve as the national voice for their peers within Division III. Tucker will serve through January 2028 with opportunities to attend the annual meeting in Indianapolis at NCAA headquarters in July, as well as the annual NCAA Convention in January.

"The National SAAC carries a lot of weight within the division," explained Director of Athletics Chad Eisele. "There is a SAAC member on every national committee with voting rights and the committee gets a vote on all division wide proposals. Their support or disapproval of proposals often determines the outcome of the vote. I am excited for Tucker to be part of this committee and the things they do to enhance Division III athletics for all student-athletes."

This committee plays a critical role in shaping the student-athlete experience by offering feedback on proposed legislation, engaging in meaningful dialogue with NCAA leadership, and participating in governance processes. Through regular meetings and active involvement in subcommittees and association-wide initiatives, Division III SAAC members advocate for positive change, foster education, and build a supportive and inclusive athletic community.

"I'm incredibly honored to have been named to the Division III National SAAC," said Smith. "It means a great deal to represent H-SC and the ODAC at the national level, and I'm excited for the chance to advocate for DIII student-athletes across the country. I can't wait to get started and make the most of this experience."

National SAAC meets quarterly (twice virtually) throughout the year to discuss various topics, including proposed legislation and current issues, as well as talk to guests, including individuals from NCAA and Division III leadership, the Sport Science Institute, the Board of Governors and more. They will discuss Division III's proposed legislation and potential impact on student-athletes, serve on both Division III and association-wide committees to provide the student-athlete perspective, form subcommittees based on relevant issues to student-athletes to help spread education and create discussion and gain professional skills and develop relationships with student-athletes from across the country to best understand Division III.