WASHINGTON - Gallaudet University athletics is proud to participate in the annual NCAA Division III Week (April 6-12) in an effort to celebrate the impact athletics and Bison student-athletes have on our campus and the surrounding community. GU is joining 429 Division III institutions and 42 voting conferences in this week's celebration.

To help focus on the many student-athletes that represent Gallaudet athletics we will spotlight several student-athletes each day this week. You will learn more about them as they express their feelings on what it is like to be a Division III student-athlete here at Gallaudet. Interviews were conducted by Gallaudet Athletic Communications Graduate Assistant Alyssa Marino and graphics by Athletic Communications Coordinator Bruce Saperstein and BoxOut Sports.

Sophomore Sofia Giansanti (Rome, Italy.) is a second-year student-athlete in the women's flag football program. Giansanti majors in communication studies and is expected to graduate in Spring 2028.

In My Own Words: Sofia Giansanti (Women's Flag Football)

What is it like to be a student-athlete in college?
SG: I'm not just a student, I'm also training like an athlete almost every day. Sometimes it feels non-stop, especially during the season, but it has strengthened my discipline and time management. Another big part is my team.

What is it like to be a student-athlete at Gallaudet University?
SG: Being a student-athlete at Gallaudet University is a very unique experience. The entire support staff takes pride in representing the Bison team, and there is a strong sense of community across athletics. What makes it even more special is that everyone can communicate through signing. Even newcomers are making the effort to learn ASL, creating an inclusive and supportive environment. I truly could not have asked for a better experience than being part of Gallaudet University's athletic program.

What is the best thing about your teammates?
SG: I love all of my teammates. We always bring out the best in each other, whether it's raining, cloudy, sunny, or even snowing during practice. Women's flag football is a growing sport, which means many of us are new to it. But that's what makes it so special. We are all learning together from our coaches, and going through that experience as a team has strengthened our bond.

What do you like most about your coach and how have they been there for you or challenged you this season?
SG: My coach is supportive and patient. They understand that we are new, but still push us to improve every day. They always make sure we stay motivated, even during tough practices or when we feel frustrated. The coach has really challenged me to believe in myself more; because of that balance between support and challenge, I feel more confident.

2026 Division III Week Student-Athlete Spotlight: In My Words
Tuesday: Sofia Giansanti (Women's Flag Football)
Monday: Olivia Wascher (Softball) | Mary Figueroa (Women's Swimming)

About Division III Week
Division III Week is a positive opportunity for all individuals associated with Division III to observe and celebrate the impact of athletics and of student-athletes on the campus and surrounding community. During the week, every Division III school and conference office is encouraged to conduct a type of outreach activity that falls into one of three categories: academic accomplishment; athletic experience; or leadership/community service/campus involvement. For more information log onto https://www.ncaa.org/sports/2013/11/15/division-iii-week.aspx.

About Gallaudet
Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864, is a bilingual, diverse, multicultural institution of higher education that ensures the intellectual and professional advancement of deaf and hard of hearing individuals through American Sign Language and English. Gallaudet maintains a proud tradition of research and scholarly activity and prepares its graduates for career opportunities in a highly competitive, technological, and rapidly changing world. For more information about Gallaudet University please log onto www.gallaudet.edu and visit the Bison athletics homepage at www.gallaudetbison.com.