Albion SAAC Hosts Annual Winter Carnival 12/17/2024 1:00:00 PM Share: -- Story provided by Albion College Athletics -- Last Friday, the Albion College Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) welcomed over 500 community members for its annual Winter Carnival. Throughout the evening, children and families were able to interact with Albion student-athletes and staff with games, crafts and fun. An event that has evolved for over a decade, Albion accumulated over 450 volunteer hours between its student-athletes and staff to make the Winter Carnival a success. Senior baseball player and student leader of the event, Brayden Raether, talks of the impact it has had within the student body. "The SAAC Winter Carnival has always been a rich experience for student-athletes and the Albion Community. It was a pleasure to lead this event, knowing the positive impact it has on everyone involved. Huge thanks to Coach Emily, my amazing committee members, and all the student-athletes and athletic staff who made this event so memorable," said Raether. In addition to the cookie decorating and bounce houses, those who attended were able to visit with Brit, Santa and Mrs. Claus. "The smiles on the faces of the families are the reason the tradition is strong, and I am continually reminded how energizing of an event it is," said SAAC Advisor and head women's lacrosse coach, Emily DiRado. "There are a number of people to thank, the Athletics Administration and Dr. Webster for encouraging and supporting such an event, the SAAC Winter Carnival committee for their creativity and excitement as well as their leader, exec member, Brayden Reather, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and every student-athlete that brought enthusiasm to the day. The event is made possible by people supporting SAAC's fundraising events throughout the year." Below are the student-athletes who served on the Winter Carnival committee, helping DiRado and Raether plan the event to its full potential. Josh Doyle, Tennis Grace Halstead, Soccer Brynn Green, Wrestling Katie Woerner, Equestrian Ben Schollett, Lacrosse Dylan Cardinale, Softball Taylore Wilson, Golf Nathan Vesper, Lacrosse Beck Willems, Basketball Albion's SAAC will continue to grow the event and looks forward to inviting the community back next December. Related Stories 08.27.25 MIAA Partners with Collegiate to Empower Student-Athletes with Financial Literacy and Digital Banking Tools 08.21.25 MIAA Launches New Collaboration with Brentwood Partners 02.25.25 Dehring Transitions to New Role After 14 Years With Scots Athletics 12.23.24 Calvin Athletics Gets Into the Holiday Spirit With A Friendly Food Drive Competition Related Videos Now Playing: Play Video