By TTU Sports Information
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – It would be hard pressed to find a better fit for February's Tennessee Tech Athletics Department Unsung Leader of the Month. He epitomizes everything the honor stands for, blending both parts "unsung" and "leader" into an unbeatable combination worthy of the distinction.
As President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), Stage Stockton fits the bill and is a slam dunk for the department's Unsung Leader for the month of February.
A key leader of an organization occasionally overlooked, yet fundamental to enhancing the student-athlete experience and creating a positive impact within the community, Stockton has been a guiding force in a number of successful initiatives.
Among the highlights, the former Golden Eagle football player was instrumental in coordinating SAAC's community service fundraiser in the fall, helping raise $350 for the local Toys for Tots to distribute toys to needy children in the Upper Cumberland. Stockton's leadership was crucial in the endeavor, coordinating volunteers to raise funds and volunteers to deliver the check.
"Sage's leadership was instrumental to the fundraising effort in so many ways," SAAC Advisor and TTU Athletics Director of Compliance Mandy Thatcher said. "Without his work, fewer children in the UC would get to enjoy new gifts at Christmas this year. We are thankful for his contributions."
Stockton, an offensive lineman out of Lake Park, Ga., suited up the Golden Eagles for three seasons from 2014-16, before medically retiring before the 2017 season.
One student-athlete each month, nominated by members of the athletics staff, is selected and recognized for exemplifying outstanding leadership qualities. The leadership can be shown on the field, in the weight room, at practice, in the classroom, in study hall, on campus, in the community, for a student club or organization.
This award honors a varsity student-athlete who has made a positive impact on their team and the Tennessee Tech community as a whole, through his or her dedication to demonstrating leadership traits, such as:
- Keep Learning, Growing, and Improving
* Follow Through with Excellence
* Accomplish More than Expected
* Inspire and Motivate Others
Photo by Thomas Corhern, TTU Sports Information
