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Author:  Sarah Arnold, #NACWAA13 attendee

Day 2: I woke up at 6:00 AM to hit the gym. As I went down the fitness center, I noticed every treadmill and elliptical was taken. I should have realized being at an "athletic" conference, majority of people are early risers. I opted for the medball and weights instead. Tomorrow I will have to attend the Nike Training Club organized by NACWAA.

Breakfast was a large array of fresh fruit, pastries, coffee and more. The conference room ignited with influential speakers and dynamic personalities. From attendees to senior level administrators, everyone has something to offer and learn from at the NACWAA convention. 

I personally enjoyed the breakout session titled: "Integrating Life & Work: Raising a Family and an Athletics Department." Although I am no where near marriage, children and a family, it never hurts to get a head start on an important topic. It was interesting when the panelists shared, "We did not title this Work/Life Balance, because it is not. We sit on a teeter-totter; somedays our work is more than our family and other days our family outweighs our work." The unwavering leaders said the best way for them to be successful is to integrate their work life with their spouse's and children's schedules. Everyone is on one calendar. With a supportive staff and life-long partner, they make it happen. 

Lisa Leslie was AWESOME! She was sharp, humorous and personable. I think everyone in the room enjoyed her stories and passion for life. I could not pass up getting an autograph and photo with her. 

The other breakout session that resonated with me was "Wearing Many Hats: Managing it All in Small Athletic Departments." I always wondered how one person at a Division III school operates so many areas at once. They shared tips and tricks and how to keep their priorities in check. Balance and having a happy and healthy lifestyle is also key. They say if they can lead by example, others in their athletic department will be able to as well. 

The end of the night was a dinner and auction with all NACWAA attendees. It was fun to continue meeting new people. I think the "young generation" found their group in the room. I connected with another Miami University of Ohio graduate and some interns with the NCAA. After five minutes of meeting, I felt like I knew them my whole life.  

I look forward to what tomorrow has to bring! 

Sarah Arnold

Marquette University | Graduate Student 

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