GNAC Insider

Podcast Guest:

Marie-Eloise Leclair: Simon Fraser University, Track & Field

In this episode, we are joined by Marie-Eloise Leclair, a member of the Women’s track team at Simon Fraser University. Marie recaps her time competing in the women’s 4x100 meter relay at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games as well as shares her advice for those wanting to compete at a higher level. 

Podcast Guest: 

Emy Ntekpere: Central Washington, Track & Field

In this episode, we are joined by freshman track & field standout Emy Ntekpere who claimed an All-American honor in her first year at Central Washington. Emy recounts her experience competing at the NCAA DII Indoor Track & Field Championships, expressing her surprise at the warmth and camaraderie among her competitors. Despite her relative inexperience in the high jump and triple jump, Emy showcases immense potential across all jumping events and her enthusiasm is palpable as she looks ahead to the outdoor season. Don't miss out on Emy's infectious joy and promising trajectory in the world of track and field.

Podcast Guest: 

Dustyn McKenney: Western Oregon Men's Cross Country / Track, National SAAC Representative


In this episode, we are joined by Dustyn McKenney, a member of the men's cross country and track team from Western Oregon University and the newly appointed National SAAC Representative for the GNAC. Dustyn shares insights into how his involvement in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) has enriched his collegiate experience. We delve into what aspects of SAAC he finds most fulfilling and how it has positively impacted both his athletic and academic journey. Additionally, Dustyn offers a glimpse into his new role on the national stage and shares his excitement for the opportunity to represent the student-athlete voice as he joins the National SAAC. 

Podcast Guest: 

Zharon Richmond: Montana State Billings, Men's Basketball


In this episode, we are joined by Zharon Richmond, the seventh-year senior from Montana State Billings Men's Basketball team. Zharon shares his unconventional collegiate odyssey, marked by challenges with injuries and mental health. Despite the hurdles, Zharon's resilience shines through as his team rises to the top of the conference and he remains a strong contributor to their success.

Podcast Guest: 

Emma Mulligan: Northwest Nazarene, Softball, Senior


In this episode, we are joined by Emma Mulligan from Northwest Nazarene. As a key player for the three-time reigning GNAC softball champion Nighthawks, Emma discusses the excitement surrounding their top 25 preseason national ranking. Emma reflects on her previous season interrupted by injury and how this setback has offered her a unique perspective from the sidelines and has grown a new appreciation for her sport.

Podcast Guest: 

Emma Kramer: Simon Fraser Women's Basketball


In this episode, we are joined by Emma Kramer, former Simon Fraser Women's Basketball player. Having just completed her term as DII National Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Chair, Emma reflects on how her experience as a representative has molded her into the leader she is today. In a candid discussion, we delve into Emma's journey as a student-athlete, where she bravely opens up about her mental health challenges and encourages others to seek help without shame.

Podcast Guest: 

Vanessa Aniteye: Seattle Pacific Women's Track and Field, Woman of the Year Top 30 Nominee

In this episode, we are joined by Vanessa Aniteye, a standout student-athlete from the Seattle Pacific women’s cross country and track and field team who graduated in the spring of 2023. Aniteye's achievements extend beyond the track, earning her a well-deserved spot among the 2023 NCAA Woman of the Year Top 30 Nominees. The 2023 national champion in the indoor 800 meters, Aniteye’s prowess on the track is matched only by her dedication off it as a stellar student, an active community volunteer, and a loving mother.

Podcast Guest: 

Dyauni Boyce: Montana State Billings Women's Basketball, Junior


In this episode, we are joined by Dyauni Boyce from the small town of Winifred, Montana, who had an opportunity earlier this season to return home and play in her high school gym. Dyauni shares with us what it was like growing up in a small town and expresses her gratitude for where basketball has taken her. Join us and hear how Dyauni, along with 9 of 11 teammates, is successfully representing their home state of Montana this season as they excel on the court.

Podcast Guest: 

Jaden Nielsen-Skinner: Saint Martin's, Men's Basketball, Junior


In this episode, we are joined by Jaden Nielsen-Skinner, the captain of Saint Martin's men's basketball team, who has played a pivotal role in guiding his team to its highest national ranking in the history of Saint Martin's men's basketball. Jaden shares with us the history of "The Salem Trio," comprised of Jaden and Saint's guards, Tyke Thompson and Kyle Greeley, who grew up playing basketball together in Salem, Oregon. As Jaden reflects on his journey and achievements at SMU, it becomes evident that camaraderie, teamwork, and honing a "Championship Mentality" have been integral to both his individual and team success on the court.

Podcast Guests: 

Sophie Beadle: Seattle Pacific University, Women's Soccer, Senior


In this episode, we are joined by Sophie Beadle, the 2023 Women's Soccer Player of the Year from Seattle Pacific University, who helped lead her team to victory in the regular season conference. Sophie humbly discusses what distinguishes her team from others and what has allowed them to find both team and individual success. In preparation for the GNAC Women's Soccer Championships in Ellensburg, WA at Tomlinson Stadium, starting November 9, Sophie shares how her team is gearing up to face their competition.