SAC Student-Athlete Insider: LMU's Maldonado Named National SAAC Chair

theSAC.com: Tell us about the process of being selected as national chair. Did you have to campaign for yourself?

Maldonado: "In a way I had to campaign for myself, yes, but not in the traditional sense. The national chair is selected from within the representatives of the NCAA Division II SAAC. The member must first be nominated for the position, and cannot nominate themselves. Those who are nominated are then allowed to give a short speech as to why they feel they would be the right person for the position. Once the nominated individuals have all spoken, the committee then votes for the individual they feel would best represent them."

theSAC.com: What are your favorite experiences so far from being on the National SAAC?

Maldonado: "My favorite experiences so far from being on the National SAAC definitely have to be the in-person meetings we have throughout the year. We committee members only meet face to face for 12 days out of the year, and I've never seen a group of strangers bond as quickly and become like family."

theSAC.com: What do you anticipate being your top goals during your term as national chair?

Maldonado: "First, I want us to continue the tradition of excellence that our predecessors carried on before us. Secondly, I want to get more positive student-athlete actions noticed and in the media. Next, I want us, as Division II student-athletes, to break the $500,000 barrier for proceeds that benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Lastly, I want to continue to encourage our student-athletes to give back to their communities that faithfully support them on and off the field."

theSAC.com: How can you use your National SAAC experience to benefit your fellow-student-athletes at Lincoln Memorial and across the South Atlantic Conference?

Maldonado: "Sharing all the knowledge and information that I obtain from my National SAAC experience is the biggest thing I've found to directly benefit those around me."

theSAC.com: How has being on National SAAC impacted you away from athletics?

Maldonado: "Professional development is what comes to mind when I think about how National SAAC has impacted me away from athletics. I'm a lot more confident in myself to speak in front of a multidisciplinary audience, and I don't have to think twice when I must take charge in any situation, such as conducting business."

theSAC.com: What does it mean to you, personally, to have the opportunity to lead student-athletes from all over the country?

Maldonado: "Like I said when I was originally appointed to the DII SAAC, it's a great honor and privilege. I have a greater appreciation for everything that has to go on behind the scenes just so that we athletes can practice and play. I feel extremely fortunate to be able to impact so many lives in a positive way."

theSAC.com: What are some things about National SAAC and its mission that others might not be aware of?

Maldonado: "Like I said earlier, we only meet 12 days out of the year. During those days we're meeting from the morning to the evening and speaking on issues and topics that pertain to all Division II student-athletes. We work to enhance the total student-athlete experience by promoting opportunity for all student-athletes; protecting student-athlete welfare; and fostering a positive student-athlete image. The National SAAC works diligently to ensure that our mission statement is carried out."

theSAC.com: Finally, what advice would you give to other student-athletes who may or may not be seeking out leadership opportunities?

Maldonado: "My advice would be to get involved with what's going on around campus. Networking is always a life skill that you can utilize. Diligently seek knowledge and don't be afraid to ask questions. Lead by example and become a shining model of what Division II student-athletes stand for. People will notice."