Your experience as a student-athlete is of the utmost importance to the coaches, staff and administration of the Duke University Athletics Department. The primary goal for every student-athlete in college is to get a first-rate education; that in any conflict between athletics and academics, academics take first priority; that each student-athlete should be, and be treated, as much like the rest of the student body as possible.

As a result, athletes are expected to conform to all the rules set for the student body at large and are not to be accorded any special treatment or status in any university service that they share with the rest of the student body.

At the same, however, the university remains committed to excellence in all competitive arenas. Academic and athletic success can be achieved together. Duke student-athletes are expected to train hard, to do their best, to have fun, and to derive from intercollegiate athletics all the benefits of high level participation in a competitive educational environment.

Student-Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC)
The Student-Athlete Advisory Council is composed of representatives of each varsity team. It meets regularly to discuss issues relevant to the quality of the experience of Duke student-athletes. The SAAC then meets at least twice a year with the Director of Athletics and the Associate Director of Athletics to discuss their concerns, ask questions, and make suggestions concerning student welfare and the Department of Athletics. Email Leslie Barnes if you want more information about SAAC.