Emily Orsini, Asst. Sports Editor–
The NCAA created Division III Week in 2010 as a part of D-III’s Identity Initiative as a way to give smaller universities and their athletes the ability to share all the positive experiences associated with D-III athletics and why that level is the right environment for them.
As athletic administration has recoginzed, being a D-III athlete comes with its challenges, especially when attending a college like Denison. With academics being prioritized over athletics, athletes may feel the stress and pressure to succeed both in and out of their sport.
“[D-III athletes] have a high commitment level because school in itself is really challenging. Because we’re non-scholarship, if you’re here it’s because you want to be an athlete,” said Beau Scott, the Director of Sports Performance and the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Denison.
Since many D-III schools place a heavy emphasis on excelling in the classroom, athletes involved in varsity sports are also able to explore and develop other interests by joining clubs, organizations and even participating in another sport.
Maeve Perry ‘27, a first-year on the volleyball and basketball teams, and Sydney Flores ‘26, a sophomore on the basketball and track and field teams, took advantage of this opportunity.
“I chose DIII because it allowed me to play two sports while also going pre-med. Vigorous athletics and academics!” Perry said.
“My favorite part about being a D-III athlete is being able to compete in two different sports in a close-knit community with a lot of different connections,” Flores added.
For Quin DeVault ‘27, a first-year on the football team, college isn’t just about getting a degree and being an athlete, it’s about making everlasting friendships.
“I think the best part of D-III athletics is the family that you develop. You come in, and it’s your first time away from family really, so being involved gives you a new system of brothers around you,” DeVault said.
Because of Division III Week, athletes competing at this level can share their experiences and opinions regarding the environment, while also being recognized for their hard work and determination.
Denison, as well as other colleges across the country, recognized Division III Week from April 1-7, where unique events and opportunities were held to celebrate the athletes and their hard work.
On April 4, Denison’s athletics department offered T-shirts and a meal from Zaki’s Mediterranean food truck, and on April 6, athletes were invited to attend a formal at West Church Social in Newark in celebration of Divsion III Week. Athletes could relax and enjoy time with their teammates and friends by taking advantage of gyros on Thursday and tearing up the dance floor on Saturday.
Division III Week has allowed universities and colleges to advocate for their programs and give high school athletes the ability to explore their options within the division. This salute to D-III athletics showcases the wide variety of experiences and opportunities available within collegiate athletics, reinforcing the notion that success knows no division.