University of North Carolina Ashville Athletics
Asheville Student-Athletes Attend Big South Leadership Conference
07.26.2023 | General
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Earlier this month, five Bulldog student-athletes represented UNC Asheville at the Big South Leadership Conference held in Black Mountain.
The Big South Leadership Conference is an annual event that the conference has hosted for nearly two decades. Nearly 50 student-athletes attend the conference to invest and grow in leadership roles.
The Bulldogs in attendance were Jamon Battle (men's basketball), McKinley Brooks-Sumpter (women's basketball), Sierra Cardi (women's golf), Mallory Haney (women's track and field), and Anthony Mason (men's track and field). Several student-athletes in attendance shared their experience from the conference and how it has impacted their approach to this upcoming sports season.
Sierra Cardi:
"This was my first time at the Big South Leadership Conference, and it certainly did not disappoint. I was a little bit nervous leading up to it, but once I got there, I felt accepted by this amazing group. We were roomed with athletes from other schools and sports, and all around got to meet so many new people. I roomed with presidents from other schools; a Winthrop Volleyball player, Emma Ann Lay, and the Big South National Representative and Radford Volleyball player, Meredith Page. Looking back, this was such a great opportunity to collaborate with like-minded people and be able to bounce ideas off of each other.
Additionally, we were put into groups where we did a lot of the games, small group discussions, and the karaoke competition. This was a great experience because we met people from a range of different schools and sports. We all became fast friends and were able to collaborate and feel comfortable talking to each other about a range of topics.
Overall, it was a great environment to grow and step out of my comfort zone. I loved how inclusive everyone was. I can say confidently that there wasn't one person that I didn't talk to or get along with! Looking back, it was an amazing experience, and would recommend it to anyone! I am so blessed to be able to be a part of Big South SAAC!"
Mallory Haney:
"When I arrived I met a few people and walked around the campsite until it was time for everyone to gather. We played games and we all got to meet each other through the games. They put everyone in different groups so you weren't with someone from the same school as you so it forced you to interact with other people from other institutions. Every night everyone would walk down to the gym to play midnight games. Each day we learned about leadership and it was broken down into 3 topics of values (Live, Grow, and Add).
On day two, we did the ropes course and I teamed up with Jess Gengler from Winthrop women's soccer and Holden Gerth from Charleston Southern University track and field. We called our group "Team Legendary", and we were the first group to do the course. We went on the highest one first and with the help of Jess from Winthrop we were all energetic about it. Everyone else fed off our energy and there was an excitement throughout the rest of the group to go through the course.
Even afterward, cooling off by the pool playing sharks across the ocean, and letting the little kids from another camp play with us was just an amazing experience. We finished that day with karaoke, skits, and learning more about leadership. Everyone was so friendly, open-minded, and humorous. On our final day, we finished our last topic and TA told us his story and how he never gave up no matter the situation. I just wanna say thank you to everyone that was there to make this happen as well as for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of something so impactful and important."
Anthony Mason:
"Attending the Big South Leadership Conference was a life-changing experience I will forever cherish. From the moment I stepped foot into the event, I knew this would be something special. Little did I know that the next few days would be filled with incredible experiences, inspiring discussions, and unforgettable connections.
One of the standout moments of the conference was the midnight basketball game we played overnight. It was an exhilarating experience that brought out the competitive nature of all of us. As we laughed, competed, and encouraged each other, the barriers of unfamiliarity melted away, and we began to form bonds that would last beyond the event.
The discussions with TA and Sterling were genuinely eye-opening. Their strong leadership qualities were evident from the very beginning. They exuded confidence, authenticity, and a genuine desire to see all of us succeed. Their stories of overcoming challenges and embracing their unique strengths resonated deeply with me, leaving a lasting impression of what authentic leadership entails.
Throughout the conference, many discussions allowed us to go into topics like effective communication, teamwork, and personal development. TA and Sterling encouraged us to find our voice and to recognize the leader within ourselves. Their guidance challenged us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the responsibilities that come with leadership.
But it wasn't just the keynote speakers who made an impact. The connections I made with people from other conferences were unexpected and profound. It was incredible to see how, despite our different backgrounds and experiences, we all shared a common passion for leadership and personal growth. These newfound friendships reminded me of the power of shared values and goals. I left the conference with a broader perspective on the world and the potential for positive change.
Amidst the discussions and leadership sessions, we also had moments of pure fun and joy. The dance parties were a highlight for me. Learning new line dances and dancing to the music created a fantastic atmosphere that brought everyone together. It was a beautiful display of unity and celebration, where laughter and smiles were abundant.
What struck me the most about the Big South Leadership Conference was the overall atmosphere and the people. The energy in the room was infectious, and it was evident that everyone was genuinely invested in supporting and uplifting one another. Whether during sessions, meal times, or casual conversations, a sense of belonging and acceptance fostered a positive and inclusive environment.
As I reflect on my time at the conference, I can't help but feel grateful for the lessons learned, the connections made, and the memories created. It was more than just a leadership conference; The Big South Conference reaffirmed my belief in the power of leadership and the importance of genuine connections. It taught me that leadership isn't about commanding authority but about inspiring others, fostering teamwork, and embracing our strengths to bring about positive change.
I leave the conference with a heart full of gratitude and a newfound determination to apply the valuable insights gained to my personal and professional life. The memories of midnight basketball, inspiring discussions, new dance moves, and the wonderful people I met will remind me of the profound impact of the Big South Leadership Conference. I am excited to take this experience forward and to continue my journey as a leader with renewed passion and purpose."
