The NCAA CHAMPS/Life Skills program has enhanced the life of the student-athlete at Westfield State College. Through educational programs and resources, the student-athletes have become better students, athletes, and citizens. The program has given us the opportunity to teach a wide array of skills to student-athletes and to provide a more positive athletic experience.

 

Here at Westfield State, we strive to excel through the 5 CHAMPS/Life Skills commitments which are:

 

The goal is to build athletics programs that are broad based, equitable and dedicated to the well-being of the student-athlete. In 2006-2007, Westfield State won the highly coveted Smith Cup trophy – emblematic of the top program in the Massachusetts State Athletic Conference (MASCAC).

The goal is to support the development of a well-balanced lifestyle for student-athletes, encouraging emotional well-being, personal growth and decision-making skills. At Westfield State, programs are offered to educate student-athletes in the areas of nutrition, health and safety, alcohol and drugs, hazing, and other areas that compromise the success of student-athletes.

The goal of this commitment is to support the academic progress of the student-athletes toward intellectual development and graduation. At Westfield State, all freshmen attend six to eight weeks of study hall for four hours per week while in-season. The athletics department monitors the grades of all freshmen through progress reports. A graduate assistant is available to advise freshmen with academic concerns and help them obtain campus services.

Student-athletes are engaged in service to the campus and surrounding communities. Student-Athletes at Westfield State participate in a wide array of community service activities such as clinics, assisting with freshmen moving-in, clothing drives, and a Secret Santa program for disadvantaged children.

 

Student-athletes pursue career and life goals. Leadership training is widespread in the athletics department through the Student-Athlete Advisory Board, Peer Educator program, captains’ workshops, and regional and national NCAA Leadership Conferences. On campus, Athletics partners with Career Services to offer programming to student-athlete leaders.

Events for 2006-2007
- ACE (Alcohol Choices Education) program
- Guest Speakers

- Athletic Pep Rally
- Fan Day
- Athletics Director's Honor Roll 3.0 Reception

- Secret Santa Program

- Enchancing student-athlete box lunches