ALFRED, NY -- Friends of Saxon Athletics, an organization that supports Alfred University Athletics Department, has a new name.

Beginning July 1 FSA, which serves to enhance the experience of the University's 400-plus student-athletes, will be known as Saxon Nation. The FSA Board of Directors approved the name change at a meeting earlier this month.

"We found that name most appealing because 'Saxons' is totally unique to Alfred University among all collegiate programs and portrays great strength and passion," AU Athletics Director Paul Vecchio commented. "'Nation,' of course could have been expanded even further as AU graduates populate every corner of our globe, however, we thought that the camaraderie and common spirit of a nation applies very well in this case to our student-athlete alumni: our 'Saxon Nation'."

Saxon Nation encompasses the spirit of team and pride that comes with participation – as a player or fan – in Alfred University athletics. "It (Saxon Nation) reflects the special relationships our former student-athletes have formed with their teammates, coaches, and indeed, with the University itself, during their time wearing the Purple and Gold," Vecchio said.

The new moniker is one that can be heard today on the AU campus, Vecchio noted. "We have found this term to be a popular one among our current student-athletes, who have often used the term in social media circles to describe their pride in being a part of our program."

Funds raised by Saxon Nation help pay for: the purchase and upgrade of team equipment; renovation and improvement of facilities; enhancement of video streaming of AU athletics contests and website capabilities; team travel expenses; recruiting expenses; team and department awards; and programming for student-athletes and athletics staff. In addition, for the first time in its history, Saxon Nation will featured tiered giving levels starting at $25 all the way to $1,000-plus, with many of the levels featuring Nike apparel adorned with the new Saxon Nation logo.

For more information, or to become a Saxon Nation member, please visit the Saxon Nation web page.