The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics implements Student-Athlete Development Programs designed to support and enhance the personal and professional success of student athletes outside of their sport. Topics include, but are not limited to, mental health, sexual violence prevention, transfer requirements, strength & conditioning, nutrition, financial literacy, career preparation, and NIL.
In the 2025-26 academic year, YSU’s Athletic Academic Services & Student-Athlete Engagement department launched two transformative programs designed to develop well-rounded skills for lifelong success and complement the athletic academic pursuits of its student-athletes. Programming is modeled to provide valuable advantages that extend far beyond a student-athlete’s time at YSU. Those advantages include:
- Developing essential life and leadership skills that translate to any career path
- Gaining recognition and certificates that enhance resumes and professional credentials
- Networking and career exploration opportunities with coaches, alumni and industry professionals
- Giving back to the community through meaningful engagement initiatives
- Preparing for life after YSU with transferable skills and experiences
Student-Athlete Leadership Development Academy
The Student-Athlete Leadership Development Academy provides comprehensive leadership training with interactive modules, hands-on activities, guest speakers and capstone projects. The program is designed specifically for selected YSU student-athletes to excel both on and off the field.
- Six Interactive Modules - Structured leadership development curriculum in the topics of: Foundations of Leadership, Communication and Influence, Team Dynamics and Culture, Resilience and Mental Toughness, Ethical Leadership and Social Responsibility, and Legacy and Leadership in Action
- Hands-On Activities - Experiential learning opportunities
- Guest Speakers - Coaches, industry professionals, and alumni student-athletes
- Capstone Project - Certificate of completion and leadership recognition
Penguin Path Towards Your Future
The Penguin Path is designed to develop YSU student-athletes during their time on campus and prepare them for future success beyond graduation. The program focuses on three core values that represent essential foundations for future success. Each student-athlete completes two programs or events in each core value area.
- Life Skills & Career Growth - Develop professional competencies, career exploration, and practical life skills essential for success beyond athletics.
- Personal Development - Focus on individual growth, mental wellness, leadership abilities, and personal goal achievement.
- Community Engagement - Participate in service opportunities, build community relationships, and develop social responsibility.
The program requires the completion of two programs or events in each core value, six total programs or events per academic year, and an average of three programs or events per semester.
Student-Athlete Advisory Committee
Youngstown State University Intercollegiate Athletics Department believes the student-athlete experience is essential to its mission. In order to assist in accomplishing this mission, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is available to all student-athletes.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Youngstown State University's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee is:
- To promote efficient communication between the Athletic Administration and the student-athlete population regarding areas that impact the student's athletic, academic, and personal well-being; and
- To actively encourage more involvement of student-athletes in campus and community projects; and
- To encourage unity, common purpose and camaraderie between teams and among all athletes in the athletic program; and
- To establish a relationship with student government.
