Editor's Note: This is the first in a series of profiles of York College Student-Athletes. These profiles will run throughout the school year and highlight student-athletes that excel in both the classroom and their chosen sport.

    If it was easy, everyone would do it.
    If everyone did it like York College field hockey player Casey Knauss, college athletics would be far better off.
    Knauss is a senior midfielder for the York College Spartans. However, just knowing her class, her sport and her position hardly do justice to a student-athlete that is exactly that, an outstanding student and a great athlete.
    Knauss came to York College from St. Michael’s, Md. and Easton High School where she was a two-sport standout. The search for a college began with a focus on the academic program followed by the opportunity to continue her athletic career.
    “I always believed that my educational experience is the most critical thing to me,” says Knauss. “However, athletics is still a very important part of my life. I believe many of my fellow student-athletes feel that way. I focused on Division III schools from the start of my college search. I wanted a great academic experience combined with the ability to keep playing competitive field hockey.”
    Knauss, who is a psychology major, has found success both in the classroom and on the field. Academically, Knauss sports a GPA of 3.5. She is a member of Psi-Chi national psychology honor society and also a member of the Psychology Club. The organization features professional development for members and the latest news in the world of psychology.
    Athletically, Knauss was an All-Capital Athletic Conference selection as a defender in 2006 and then as a midfielder in 2007. She has played in and started 68 career games and has scored nine points on two goals and five assists. While her offense numbers don’t standout, her contributions to the program are immeasurable. She is a three-year captain whose leadership and dedication to her sport provides a standard for her teammates and fellow athletes.
    “This program is very meaningful to me,” says Knauss. “My teammates and our coaches work very hard to make us the best that we can be. I am really excited about the potential of our team this year.”
    Knauss also contributes to the athletic program off the field. She is the vice-president of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (S.A.A.C.), the student-athlete voice at York College. She serves as the President of the Capital Athletic Conference arm of the S.A.A.C.
    “I believe it is important to get involved,” states Knauss. “That is one of the big advantages of a place like York College. I am deeply involved in my studies, my professional organizations, and our field hockey program but I still have the opportunity to represent my fellow student-athletes as a member of S.A.A.C.”
    Knauss feels that the York campus is a perfect fit for her.
    “This is a very friendly place. I feel like I have had so many opportunities, both academically and athletically. The campus is easy to get around and the Grumbacher Center has provided our campus with a wonderful recreational facility for all of our students.”
    While the opportunity to become involved presents itself on campus, there are other aspects of York College that Knauss really enjoys.
    “York College has provided me with a very well rounded college experience. I can’t imagine getting a better academic and athletic experience anywhere else.”
    Athletically, Knauss believes the York College athletic department gets what Division III athletics is all about.
    “The entire staff is truly dedicated to giving the student-athletes the best experience possible. The staff is interested as you, not just as an athlete, but also as a person. The interaction I have had with the staff has been incredibly positive. I also have been overwhelmed by the support that fellow student-athletes have shown to each other. The interaction with other student-athletes has been something I have really enjoyed.”
    Knauss is in the process of working towards life after York College.
    “I am currently applying to masters’ programs in school psychology. I want to work with an educational population when I complete school. Having the ability to help others is something that I have always wanted to do.”
    Knauss believes her York College experience will prepare her well in her chosen profession.
    “I feel incredibly prepared as a person and as a professional. York College has given me the opportunity to grow as a person, a student, and an athlete. For that, I am grateful.”