Dear Colleagues:
On October 1st, I will assume a new role as Executive Director of U.S. Figure Skating.
One of the great attractions of my new position is that it will allow me to be involved with a world class sport organization that deals with participants from the basic learn-to- skate through to the Olympic level; an opportunity to make a profound impact in an amateur sport on a national and international level; and a chance to serve the many wonderful volunteers involved with this great sport.
On this occasion, it seems appropriate to reflect on the collective achievements of Union College Athletics during these past four years. Union's student-athletes and coaches have achieved great success on the playing field: a winning percentage over .526; six regular season conference championships; four conference tournament championships; 20 NCAA appearances; eight coaches selected as coach-of-the year; more than 12 national All-Americans; and a Director Cup national ranking of 171, 52, 57, and 63 respectively among more than 300 institutions.
Academically, Union College student-athletes have achieved remarkable heights: more than 200 conference all-academic selections; more than 30 all-academic ECAC selections; and six academic All-Americans.
Our athletic/recreational/intramural physical plant has grown and improved over the last four years: a new stadium at Frank Bailey Field; the resurfacing of the track around Frank Bailey Field; the renovations of Messa Rink at Achilles Center; the construction of the Viniar Athletic Center; and the addition of the new lighted turf field at College Park.
Athletics has also broadened its mission statement, committees have engaged in active discussions and initiatives on how collaboration can best support academics, athletics/recreation/intramurals, faculty relations, and alumni affairs. This has been accomplished through great support from the President's Office; tremendous trust from Academic Affairs; a Facilities Department that is second to none; an Admissions staff with the foresight to attract outstanding students to the campus; a College Relations Office that has a passion to make Union College a better institution; a group of alumni that hold Union close to their heart and a dedicated, loyal athletic department staff focused on achieving excellence.
It has been my privilege to work for Union College, an institution of people willing to look hard at the important issues and demand the best of themselves and of their entire campus community. I wish the very best to all of you.
Sincerely,
Val Belmonte
Union College Director of Athletics, 2000-2004