Senior Aidan Hamner (Bettendorf, Iowa / Bettendorf) of Caltech Baseball recently participated in a panel at the NCAA Impact Forum, a conference for coaches, administrators and student-athletes within collegiate athletics focused around leadership and community building.  

Hamner spoke on a panel titled, "Initiating Impact: Embracing Humanity and Building Community on Campus." The panel was moderated by Dr. Niya Blair Hackworth, the Director of Curriculum and Internal Engagement from the NCAA Inclusion Office. He highlighted the communal nature of the Caltech student body and how that sense of community has empowered him in pursuing opportunities both on and off the field. 

"Aidan was an outstanding choice to represent Caltech at the NCAA Impact Forum," Caltech Baseball Head Coach Frank Craska said. "As a SAAC representative for our baseball program, Aidan's voice goes a long way in promoting inclusion and strengthening the diversity of our community."

This year's conference took place Nov. 10-12 in Indianapolis, Ind. The theme of this year's conference was "Embracing Humanity, Building Community," according to the NCAA. The event stressed the unique nature of the experience of each individual student-athlete and featured tailored programs for participants.  

"A program like this not only is not only beneficial for Aidan and our baseball team in terms of national exposure, but it displays the high character individuals that Caltech Athletics has," Craska said. "Highlighting the ability of our student-athletes to be impactful members of our community is pivotal for the continued success of our department, and a proud moment for us all." 

Hamner and the Beavers begin their season Jan. 30 2026 against Bethesda at 2:00 p.m. 

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