University of Connecticut Athletics
UConn Student-Athletes Champion Mental Health Awareness
6/1/2026 4:24:00 PM | Student-Athlete Advisory Committee
In 2024, Jenna Zydanowicz began a Capstone project for her Master's in Public Health, entitled "Breaking Barriers: Reducing Stigma in College Athletics Through the Development of Mental Health Awareness Games Toolkit." The project became the foundation for the Mental Health Games at UConn — a blueprint for student-athletes to facilitate awareness and open conversation about mental health resources on campus and in the greater community.
Jenna worked alongside the Mental Health Committee, comprised of four student-athletes from SAAC, Dawn Shadron, Ellen Tripp, and Ashley Branagan as well as campus partners from Health Promotion and Student Health and Wellness. Together, they met regularly to plan and execute activations at athletic events throughout the year, bringing mental health resources directly to the campus community.
In May 2025, Jenna graduated with her Master's degree. The legacy she left behind continues to grow, with her toolkit serving as the foundation for the next generation of students to build upon and expand her work.
This past year, Sarah Trainor, Molly Rogers, Maia Dechiario, and Tori Tomalia led Mental Health Games initiatives across the Division of Athletics. The 2025–26 season was a success, achieving representation across 8 of 19 teams — with at least 4 teams hosting their own independent mental health initiatives. At two games, mental health representatives were recognized through in-game announcements, a meaningful spotlight that also strengthened fan engagement.
"As a student, it was exciting seeing athletes and fans alike engage with our initiative. Personally, it was an honor to expand upon my teammate Jenna Zydanowicz's legacy and work with such amazing SAAC representatives." — Sarah Trainor
At each event, SAAC representatives set up tables to promote UConn's mental health services, featuring posters, flyers, and interactive giveaways including rubber bracelets, stickers, and green ribbon pins. The initiative raises awareness of campus resources while demonstrating UConn Athletics' commitment to the holistic development of its student-athletes.
Benefits to SAAC and UConn Athletics
Community Impact: Demonstrates genuine care and outreach from UConn Athletics. Athlete Engagement: Encourages student-athletes to connect with available resources. Positive Visibility: Strengthens awareness of mental health services among students, athletes, and fans alike.
Mental Health Games were held at the following events throughout the 2025–26 season:
Winter
- Men's Basketball — December 5
- Women's Basketball — February 11
- Women's Ice Hockey — January 31
- Swim & Dive — November 8
Spring
- Tennis — April 8
- Lacrosse — April 1
- Men's and Women's Track & Field — April 17–18
- Baseball — April 18
