Oklahoma State University Athletics
OSU Student-Athletes Support Special Olympians
March 01, 2011 | General
March 1, 2011
STILLWATER – Prior to the Cowboy basketball game vs. Texas Tech on Feb. 26, the Oklahoma State University Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and other student-athletes teamed up to raise more than $4,000 for the Oklahoma Special Olympics.
As part of a silent auction, fans were able to meet Cowboy stars such as Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon, purchase raffle tickets and bid on one-of-a-kind items. Through the generosity of OSU fans, SAAC presented a check for $4,091 at halftime of the game to Oklahoma Special Olympics representatives.
Even though several teams were on the road for weekend competitions, Cowboys and Cowgirls from a number of OSU squads participated in the event, including football, equestrian and men's golf. Melanie Funke, SAAC Treasurer, represented women's track & field.
“SAAC is so grateful to have the support of the Cowboy community and we are thankful for all the contributions and warm-wishes that we received from the fans,” said Erin Prutow, SAAC President and captain of the Cowgirl equestrian team.
“We would also like to thank the athletic department administration and the representatives from the Oklahoma Special Olympics for taking the time to make the silent auction such a successful and gratifying event.”
SAAC serves as the student-athletes' voice within the athletic administration and campus faculty regarding any concerns of student-athletes. They are a committee made up of student- athletes who act as liaisons between the Cowboy community and the Athletic Department. They participate in community service, fundraisers, host discussions and are involved in the planning of the student-athlete mixers.
Nationally, SAAC offers input on the rules, regulations, and policies that affect student-athletes' lives on NCAA member institution campuses as well as regularly provide feedback for legislative decisions in the Big 12.
