FAMU SAAC to honor excellence in competition, classroom at Fang Awards

The Florida A&M University Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) celebrates the achievements of Rattlers during the 2018-19 term in competition and the classroom Monday evening during the Fang Awards.

This festive semi-formal outing is the signature event of the organization. It convenes inside the Grand Ballroom beginning at 6 p.m. Prior to the start of the show, players and coaches will be available for a photo opp as they walk down the "green" carpet.

"We want to highlight the best of the best," said FAMU learning specialist and SAAC adviser, Ancia Ifill. "From Justin Ravenel hitting his 3-point buzzer-beater in basketball or softball sweeping teams, we want to show our fans and alumni our student-athletes are competing with the best."

Every program will be honored Monday night from football to golf. The respective head coaches have chosen an individual to win Rookie of the Year, Most Valuable Player, Hustle Award or Most Improved Player. 

In addition to these team prizes, the SAAC will bestow an Athlete of the Year Award for male and female. The committee based the criteria for receiving the distinction on academics, athletics and community service.   

FAMU president Dr. Larry Robinson will be in attendance to recognize the male, female and team with the highest GPA.  

SAAC representatives Morgan Mitchell (women's basketball) and Bryce Moragne (men's basketball) are the hosts for the affair.

"It's a great experience being able to work with someone I see on the court," Moragne said. "We see each other in the classroom and on the court. It will be fun to come out and put on a great show for everyone." 

The SAAC serves as the voice for student-athletes to the athletic administrators, faculty and staff. They provide insight and address issues concerning players over the course of their enrollment at FAMU.

Members of the organization attend home events for every sports program throughout the school year in a show of solidarity. 

Mitchell and Moragne are heavily involved with the group. Next year, Mitchell will serve as president and Moragne holds the title of vice president.

"For me, it means being the bridge between student-athletes, advisers and people in higher places," Mitchell said.

"We get to go out and take charge of events. Connect with other students on campus and people in the community. We get to show we're students too and not just about sports."

Last week, SAAC members visited Woodville Elementary School in Tallahassee for Field Day. They participated in activities and talked with the kids about their experiences in college.

To learn more about FAMU SAAC and the Fang Awards, click on the link to hear the Rattler Review podcast: https://979espnradio.hipcast.com/deluge/979espnradio-20190419135720-8128.mp3