The University of Missouri–St. Louis Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) has had a busy and rewarding fall semester, filled with events that foster community, service, and leadership among Triton student-athletes. From spirited competitions to meaningful volunteer efforts, SAAC continues to embody what it means to lead both on and off the field.

One of the semester's highlights was the Yard Game Bash, which brought together more than 130 student-athletes for an evening of friendly competition and connection. Teams faced off in classic yard games such as cornhole and spikeball, with Ryan Canaan and Ayden Cline claiming the Cornhole Championship and Jake Hamilton and Miles Boland taking home the Spikeball title. The event showcased teamwork, camaraderie, and Triton pride — a perfect reflection of SAAC's mission to unite student-athletes and strengthen the UMSL athletics community.

In October, SAAC turned its focus to community service, organizing a donation drive for HavenHouse STL, a nonprofit that provides housing, meals, and support for families traveling to St. Louis for medical care. During home soccer and softball games, student-athletes and fans collected more than 300 essential items — including toiletries and household supplies — for families in need. Later in the month, SAAC hosted a Movie Night and Service Project, where student-athletes made dog toys for the APA Adoption Center in Brentwood, combining fun and fellowship with giving back.

Throughout the semester, SAAC's purpose and impact have remained clear.

"I believe every athlete should be involved with SAAC because it is the first outlet for the student-athlete voice," said Vice President Emir Mustajbegovic. "I'm involved to help create a better student-athlete experience for myself and for others around me."

SAAC's goals for the year include raising $2,000 through fundraising, achieving 100% attendance at legislative meetings, and expanding leadership development opportunities. 

President Natalie Scott shared, "SAAC is a great way to build leadership skills, meet new people, and strengthen our athletic community."

Both Scott and Mustajbegovic reflected on their experience at last spring's NCAA SAAC Super Region Conference, calling it an "eye-opening experience" that helped them see SAAC's influence on a national scale.

"Meeting with SAAC representatives from around the country allowed us to learn new ways to focus our energy and time," Mustajbegovic added.

At every level — campus, conference, and national — SAAC empowers student-athletes to use their voices to shape the collegiate experience. At UMSL, that voice continues to be used to build community, serve others, and exemplify what it means to be a Triton.