Student-Athlete Success Program

Working in conjunction with the Butte College Athletic Department, the Center for Academic Success (CAS) provides academic support for student athletes in the form of the Student Athlete Success Program (SASP). Under the leadership of Wally Funk, SASP Director, and with strong support and guidance from Melody Stockwell, Athletic Director, the program has evolved over several semesters with very positive results.

Every semester, the program serves approximately 275 student athletes from Butte College football, baseball, softball, volleyball, track, and men's and women's basketball, and soccer, respectively. Designated student athletes spend a minimum of three hours per week in SASP, participating in a combination of studying, tutorial support, and attendance at Critical Skills Workshops inside of CAS. The ultimate goal is for student athletes to internalize positive study habits that will result in a successful academic future, a goal that CAS strives to achieve for all Butte College students.

Funk’s office is inside CAS and he spends 25 hours each week working directly with the student athletes. Wally is responsible for tracking mandated hours, providing individual guidance and assistance with academic work, making referrals for tutoring support, acting as a liaison to coaching staff and the athletic department, and following up with students on issues related to positive participation.

In addition to his SASP duties, Funk is also the running backs coach for the Butte College football team. He has been at Butte since 2013 and has coached several conference and state award winners. Prior to Butte, Funk worked at the four-year level as well as in the Arena Football League. In 2008, Funk was inducted into his college's Football Hall of Fame.

Funk has earned the respect of the student athletes, the CAS staff, and other students who visit CAS each day. He understands the unique pressures and expectations that surround student athletes as they work toward success both academically and in their chosen sport, which can be a very demanding combination of activities. Having been both a successful athlete and successful student, Funk serves as a guide and mentor to many of the students. His confidence and expertise help to create a very supportive atmosphere for the many student athletes who spend their time in CAS each semester. With Wally's guidance and encouragement, student athletes are working harder than ever to combine athletic success with academic success.