Augustana's Value Proposition ClaimsThe Augustana University athletic program emphasizes the five shared values listed by the university in its mission statement. These are: 1) Christian, 2) Liberal Arts, 3) Excellence, 4) Community, and 5) Service. Student-athletes are encouraged to follow these five shared values as they gain valuable experiences away from the classroom.
The athletic staff continually emphasizes that athletes are at Augustana University to receive an education. There is a common goal of developing student-athletes who are not only the best athletes they can be, but also the best students they can be. There is a firm belief that athletics must fit within the framework of the academic setting at the university.
Student-athletes are given the opportunity to grow in many ways as members of Augustana athletic teams. Athletes gain an important knowledge of the human body through physical exercise. As members of athletic teams, athletes acquire an understanding of how teamwork, goal setting, and emotional maturity are important to every day life. Athletes are also given the opportunity to grow spiritually as members of athletic teams. Augustana coaches are accessible in counseling student-athletes in all important aspects of their lives. The physical and emotional welfare of all student-athletes is a genuine concern of the athletic program and staff.
The athletic program places a strong emphasis on the principles of fair play and sportsmanship. Athletes are expected to conduct themselves in a positive manner when in competition as a member of an Augustana athletic team. A high priority is also placed on student-athletes adherence to NCAA rules and the principles of amateur competition.
Athletic staff are continually reminded of the importance of following all rules and regulations of the NCAA and Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference. A particular emphasis is placed on those rules which relate to recruiting. All representative of the athletic program are educated on recruiting rules and regulations. It is clearly understood that off campus personal contact between potential student-athletes and boosters is prohibited. Representatives of the athletic program are committed to the highest levels of professionalism in their recruiting efforts.
An important concern and focus of the athletic department is that of gender equity. Augustana has shown consistent improvement and accommodation of athletic interests for women since 1980. Upgrades have been made in scholarships, additional sports, additional staff, increased operating budgets, and attention to equality in practice times, facilities, training opportunities, and locker room space. Augustana will continue to seek improvement for women and expand its offerings for women's athletics.
Athletics also provides many positive public relations opportunities for Augustana University. Athletic teams are important as a rallying point for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and area sports fans. Many potential students and supporters become acquainted with Augustana through attending its sporting events or following its teams.
Augustana University strives to provide the best possible experience for its student-athletes. Student-athletes are afforded the opportunity to receive a quality education and a positive athletic experience. In a larger sense, athletics assists the university in its stated mission in the community and region.
