SAACthlete of the Week - Zach McCloud
CORAL GABLES, Fla. – University of Miami linebacker Zach McCloud is an active member in the Hurricanes’ Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. See how Miami SAAC has helped this Hurricane sophomore prepare for life after graduation in this week’s SAACthlete of the Week.
Why did you decide to be a part of SAAC?
“To provide me with opportunities outside of football and to be involved with the school and the community.”
What is favorite memory from SAAC?
“The student-athlete leadership summit that I went to with my teammate Shaq (Quarterman) in January this year.”
Why did you pick the University of Miami?
“I picked the University of Miami because growing up, my dad would always tell me about The U and the great players that came from there. He’s from Carol City so he grew up right next to the stadium. I knew I’d set myself up for success by coming to the University of Miami.”
What is you favorite moment in your sport so far as a Hurricane?
“Beating Notre Dame last weekend and beating Florida State this season because those are two rival games that we lost last year and we redeemed ourselves.”
What skills have you gained from being in SAAC or through the many development events?
“Networking skills. Being able to talk to people in a professional environment. From the networking development, career fairs and any other events where I get practice talking to people.”
How has your team benefitted from having a SAAC?
“Many of my teammates have gained networking skills that I have and we feel empowered because we have a voice outside of football.”
Talk about your experience being an It’s On Us student ambassador this semester and what it means to you.
“I’ve had some close friends who’ve been in some situations involving sexual assault and I’ve been living without knowing how to help them. As a student ambassador for It’s On Us, I get to make a difference. I’m surrounded by people who have a voice and are thinking of ways to solve these kinds of problems and do it on a larger scale.”
Fun fact about yourself?
“Joe Jackson, Amari Carter and I are in a singing group.”
