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Before traveling to Washington, D.C., CSUN women’s water polo goalkeeper Marin Byars shared how leadership, service, and a summer internship in Congresswoman Doris Matsui’s district office helped pave a path from the cage to Capitol Hill. On Sept. 14, the CSUN SAAC president completed that journey by representing CSUN and The Big West at a press conference supporting the Protect College Sports Act.  

The event brought more than 30 student-athletes and coaches together with senators, including Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell, at the U.S. Capitol.  

Standing in front of the Capitol, Byars proudly carried the perspectives of The Big West, CSUN, and a women’s water polo program that helped create the opportunity. In conversations with lawmakers and fellow student-athletes, the political science major emphasized the importance of protecting Olympic sports and discussed transfer rules while learning how the changing landscape of college athletics affects competitors from conferences throughout the country. 

Byars approached the experience with the same preparation and confidence required in the cage, studying the legislation throughout the week before stepping in front of the cameras. Now back in Northridge, Byars hopes to share more than the details of the trip.

The Matador wants to show fellow student-athletes that their voices matter; their stories can inspire others, and advocacy can begin simply by being willing to speak.