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One of the newest members of the Big West is next in the Black History Spotlight as we profile alums from UC San Diego. Erikk Aldridge ('91) and Erica Hinckson ('93) are our profiled former athletes, both of which have made a name for themselves after leaving UCSD.
Erikk Aldridge was a three-year starter and key player for UC San Diego on the diamond over the course of his playing career. He earned Rookie of the Year honors, served as team captain and his 42 career steals still ranks in the program's top 10 all-time. He even completed the impressive feat of stealing second, third and home in the same inning. Aldridge also gave back to the community during his career, volunteering with local schools and the YMCA.

After graduating from UCSD with a degree in psychology, he took a job working in communications and public relations with the Los Angeles Lakers. He made his mark in the industry through community service initiatives, helping to establish the Lakers Youth Foundation. He also worked in the sector for the Walt Disney Company and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Aldridge also served as the Executive Director for Boys & Girls Club of Venice. During the six plus years under his stewardship, the Club established its first endowment, and completed over a half million dollars in renovations to the gym, art center, music studio, teen lounge and learning center.

Currently Aldridge works as the Director of the AEG Community Foundation. He oversees various elements of AEG’s philanthropy nationwide with a primary focus on grants, youth programs and employee volunteer engagement. During his tenure, he established the AEG Community Foundation, created multiple youth development initiative and enhanced employee volunteer engagement.

Outside of his professional life, Aldridge gives back to his hometown of Inglewood, starting the Inglewood Baseball Fund in 2015 which is committed to youth baseball development, developing facilities in communities in need and helping people find jobs in baseball.

Erikk Aldridge Blends Passion for Sport and Giving Back to the Community - UCSD Media Relations
LA Rockstars Baseball Club Mines Talent at Local Diamonds - L.A. Parent

Erica Hinckson is one of the best athletes ever come step foot on the UC San Diego campus. She is a former 10-time All-America in track & field and was the 1992 NCAA Division II champion in the 100 meters. She was a three-time UCSD Athlete of the Year selection, was selected to the Triton Hall of Fame in 2015 and formerly owned the school record in the 100 meters.

After leaving UCSD with a bachelor of science in biochemistry and cell biology, Hinckson earned her masters in science and exercise movement at Oregon then her doctorate of philosophy from Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand. She is currently the head of the School of Sport & Recreation at the Faculty of Health and Environmental Science in New Zealand. She is also a professor at Auckland University of Technology. Hinckson was also the Associate Dean of Postgraduate Research for the faculty for six years.

Hinckson's research and work have landed her some prominent roles in academia as it relates to physical activity including:

• Co-directing the Centre of Child and Youth Research and senior researcher at the Human Potential Centre.
• Steering committee member of International Physical Activity and Environment Network (IPEN).
• Chair of Publication’s Committee, president-elect for the International Society of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity.
• Inaugural member of Citizen Science Global Research Network and Citizen Science Leadership Task Force.
• Former Chair for the Council of Environment and Physical Activity (ISPAH Council).

Articles by Erica Hinckson - Muck Rack
Erica Hinckson: Slower Speeds Are More Than A Safety Issue
Five Questions With Professor of Physical Activity and The Environment Erica Hinckson (VIDEO)