Division II athletic departments face unprecedented pressure in today’s collegiate landscape. Beyond the standard demands of competition, student-athletes navigate rigorous coursework, financial strain, social adjustments, and mental health challenges. According to the NCAA 2025 Division II Membership Survey, only 54% of Division II athletic directors feel their campus has adequate resources to support student-athletes’ mental wellness.

When compounding factors like tighter budgets, shifting government funding, and the temptation of the transfer portal enter the equation, proactive communication becomes essential. For Colorado State University Pueblo, the solution lies in listening early, listening often, and fostering an environment where student-athletes have a true voice.

Building a Foundation of Trust

At CSU Pueblo – a regional institution serving nearly 4,000 students, with approximately 500 student-athletes competing across 20 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference sports – leadership emphasizes holistic development.

Dr. Paul Plinske, Vice President for Athletics and Strategic Partnerships, has witnessed a dramatic shift in student advocacy over his 25-year career in athletics administration.

“Ten, fifteen years ago, it was not appropriate for students to speak up against authorities,” Dr. Plinske notes. “Things have changed. When students are given a voice and an opportunity to be in a safe culture, they feel more invested. And when they feel more invested, they feel they have the capacity to make change and ultimately improve things.”

The hurdles players face extend far beyond the playing field. Anxiety, depression, and interpersonal challenges are just as prevalent as concerns regarding playing time or tactical deployment. Dr. Plinske believes the entire department shares responsibility for supporting student-athletes through every facet of their collegiate journey.

Streamlining Feedback with Modern Tools

To move beyond traditional, manual paper surveys, CSU Pueblo Athletics implemented the RealResponse platform in October 2022. This technology transformed the department’s approach across three main areas:

• Comprehensive Postseason Evaluations: Using the platform’s survey tools, administrators gather rapid, in-depth insights into team culture, practice operations, travel, academic advising, and faculty relationships.

• Year-Round Anonymous Reporting: Players and staff can safely voice concerns regarding coach misconduct or safety-related incidents. Plinske treats all feedback as valuable intelligence, stating, “I would much rather know the negatives than be surprised… and as soon as we know, we act.”

• Gameday Event Communications: The university extended anonymous reporting to fans during athletic events. Whether addressing facility maintenance or assisting with a medical concern at the ThunderBowl, reports route directly to safety personnel for immediate response.

Student-athletes are introduced to the platform during preseason onboarding meetings. Input gathered through RealResponse has already driven tangible operational changes, such as expanding the department’s team transportation fleet to improve travel conditions.

Empowering ThunderWolves On and Off the Field

Driven by the core philosophy that student-athletes are students first and athletes second, CSU Pueblo continues to adapt to a transforming collegiate sports environment. While external pressures remain outside administrative control, Plinske and his staff focus on what matters most: human connection, mutual respect, and delivering an exceptional higher education experience.

• Culture of Caring: Daily communication and continuous brainstorming build accountability and trusting relationships.

• Coach Development: Constructive student feedback equips coaches with insights to refine their leadership approach.

• Proactive Support: Catching issues early allows administrators to act as first responders before minor challenges escalate into crises.

By championing transparency and giving every ThunderWolf a secure platform to be heard, CSU Pueblo ensures its student-athletes are equipped to thrive long after the final whistle.