July 27, 2005

Coordinator and Professor, Sport Management Graduate and Undergraduate programs,

Faculty Athletic Representative with active NCAA Committee involvement,Sandra Slabik was integral in the development of the Chaplain Program in 1997. Since that time Dr. Slabik has served several teams in that capacity and is currently chaplain to the Field Hockey and Softball Teams.

 

Having played and coached both of these sports at the collegiate level, Dr. Slabik brings an understanding of the skills and strategies involved, but more importantly, what sacrifices and demands each student athlete has. While leaving the coaching to the coaches, Dr. Slabik encourages the athletes at games, and is there for academic and emotional support. As each season begins, each team meets for a mini-retreat to discuss spirituality and team building concepts, and how playing a sport and community at Neumann College is a unique experience. Although her graduate teaching schedule sometimes keeps her from coming to more home games, she tries to fit as many as she can in her busy schedule, sometimes even showing up unexpectedly at away games to cheer the team on.

 

After earning an undergraduate and master's degree at West Chester University, Professor Slabik earned her doctoral degree at Temple University. Before arriving at Neumann nine years ago, Dr. Slabik taught classes, coached, and was the Athletic Director at Alvernia College.

 

 

For more information on the Sports Chaplain program at Neumann contact:

Dr. Ed Hastings
Director of the Center for Sport,
Spirituality and Character Development
One Neumann Drive
Aston, PA 19014-1298
(610) 361-5293
hastinge@neumann.edu