President's Report Masthead
September 30, 2012
Student-athletes return to campus, begin competition

Student-athletes mingle at a welcome back BBQ.

Student-athletes return to campus, begin competition

Binghamton’s student-athlete body gathered together Sept. 3, at the Events Center to celebrate the start of the 2012-13 school year. More than 450 student-athletes, coaches and staff enjoyed a barbecue dinner and welcome remarks from University President Harvey Stenger and Director of Athletics Patrick Elliott.

Stenger, a former collegiate athlete and avid runner, spoke about maintaining an “attitude” of toughness and perseverance. After attending the women’s soccer game on Sunday, he referenced the Bearcats’ impressive 4-0 win and the team’s energy and attitude amid humid temperatures and against a strong opponent. Stenger also attached great value to his own athletics experience. “I would not be a university president if it weren’t for athletics,” he said.

Elliott encouraged the student-athletes to seize the opportunity before them.

“Tomorrow is a new beginning,” Elliott said of the start of the school year. “You are a Division I student-athlete and you will be proud of that for the rest of your life. Don’t waste a second of this opportunity. You’ve earned it ... now own it and make your mark.”

Elliott also reminded the group of its status as role models and ambassadors of the University.

“With opportunity and reward comes responsibility,” he said. “We expect you to represent Binghamton in a first-class manner. Make a commitment to the highest level of conduct.

To conclude the evening, the student-athletes were given green t-shirts with the wording “Code Green” on the front and “21 Sports, 1 Team” on the back.

“This t-shirt is a call to action,” Elliott told the group. “We are in this together and we need to support one another.”