Photo by: © James Willis, All Rights Reserved
Sydney Wilson Represents Saint Mary’s at BSA Summit; Named Student-Athlete of the Year
6/10/2026 3:07:00 PM | General, Softball, Women's Rowing, Women's Tennis
MORAGA, Calif. - Saint Mary's was well represented at the 2026 Black Student-Athlete Summit in Eugene last month and even took home an award as women's tennis player Sydney Wilson was named one of five BSA Student-Athletes of the Year.
Wilson was joined by fellow SMC student-athletes Braxton Brown (softball) and Nalani Jihad (rowing) as well as current women's basketball assistant coach Lexi Petersen at the annual summit held on the campus of the University of Oregon. The four-day event features guest speakers as well as interactive activities and seminars with fellow NCAA student-athletes and other prominent sport figures. Wilson spoke on the panel this year and was eventually named one of five BSA Student-Athletes of the Year. The four other winners came from Notre Dame, Spelman College, Jackson State and Oregon.
Wilson, Brown and Jihad are all founding members of the Saint Mary's Black Student-Athlete Alliance, helping advocate and voice for change within their campus community. The trio built an organization that fosters belonging, promotes dialogue and uplifts the voices of black student-athletes. The efforts have contributed to advancing inclusivity, equity and holistic development while also cultivating a culture of support and empowerment on campus.
Additional information about the annual BSA Summit and the organization's mission can be found HERE or at bsasummit.org.
About Black Student Athlete Summit…
The Summit is more than an event; it's a catalyst for success. Held annually on the campus of the University of Oregon, BSAS unites student-athletes, athletic professionals, and industry innovators for four days of dynamic programming. Participants engage in career development sessions, financial literacy workshops, and wellness activities designed to prepare them for life beyond sports.
From the game-changing Pro Day to the ElevateXperience, the Summit equips athletes with tangible skills, strategic connections, and pathways to leadership in business, culture, and community. Coaches, athletic departments, and administrators leave with actionable insights to build impactful campus programs, creating lasting support systems for student-athletes.
Whether you are a collegiate athlete preparing for your next chapter or a professional seeking to empower the next generation, BSAS is the ultimate destination for inspiration, growth, and lifelong connections.
Be sure to follow your Gaels on Facebook, Instagram, and X to get all the latest Saint Mary's athletics updates and information.
#GaelsRise
Wilson was joined by fellow SMC student-athletes Braxton Brown (softball) and Nalani Jihad (rowing) as well as current women's basketball assistant coach Lexi Petersen at the annual summit held on the campus of the University of Oregon. The four-day event features guest speakers as well as interactive activities and seminars with fellow NCAA student-athletes and other prominent sport figures. Wilson spoke on the panel this year and was eventually named one of five BSA Student-Athletes of the Year. The four other winners came from Notre Dame, Spelman College, Jackson State and Oregon.
Wilson, Brown and Jihad are all founding members of the Saint Mary's Black Student-Athlete Alliance, helping advocate and voice for change within their campus community. The trio built an organization that fosters belonging, promotes dialogue and uplifts the voices of black student-athletes. The efforts have contributed to advancing inclusivity, equity and holistic development while also cultivating a culture of support and empowerment on campus.
Additional information about the annual BSA Summit and the organization's mission can be found HERE or at bsasummit.org.
About Black Student Athlete Summit…
The Summit is more than an event; it's a catalyst for success. Held annually on the campus of the University of Oregon, BSAS unites student-athletes, athletic professionals, and industry innovators for four days of dynamic programming. Participants engage in career development sessions, financial literacy workshops, and wellness activities designed to prepare them for life beyond sports.
From the game-changing Pro Day to the ElevateXperience, the Summit equips athletes with tangible skills, strategic connections, and pathways to leadership in business, culture, and community. Coaches, athletic departments, and administrators leave with actionable insights to build impactful campus programs, creating lasting support systems for student-athletes.
Whether you are a collegiate athlete preparing for your next chapter or a professional seeking to empower the next generation, BSAS is the ultimate destination for inspiration, growth, and lifelong connections.
Be sure to follow your Gaels on Facebook, Instagram, and X to get all the latest Saint Mary's athletics updates and information.
#GaelsRise
Players Mentioned
Monday, January 30
Saturday, May 28
Friday, May 13
Thursday, May 13
