INDIANAPOLIS — Dominik Pocrnja, Averett University's assistant director of athletics communications, was one of 30 participants selected across the nation for the NCAA Division III Athletic Communicators Emerging Elite Program by the NCAA Division III Governance staff.
Pocrnja was one of the Division III athletic communicators who were selected from all those nominated this fall by their leaders and peers for participation in the program, which is in its second year. Launched in 2024, the Athletic Communicators Emerging Elite Program is a professional development initiative hosted annually in December at the NCAA National Office in Indianapolis. In addition to the in-person program in Indianapolis, all participants will be able to receive a one-time complimentary registration to the next College Sports Communicators (CSC) UNITE convention, held annually in June.
"I am very grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Emerging Elite program," Pocrnja said. "Having the chance to learn from experienced people within my industry will only provide a positive impact for my career, and to be recognized among this group is an honor. I appreciate all the individuals who have helped me to get here, and I cannot wait to be in Indianapolis this December."
Pocrnja joined Averett's athletics communications staff in May 2024. He serves as a primary contact for multiple sports and is integral to Averett's statistics and broadcasting production operations.
"We're incredibly proud of Dominik for being selected to the Emerging Elite program," said Drew Wilson, assistant director of athletics for communications and administration. "His work has a tremendous impact on our student-athletes and the Averett community. From enhancing the game day experience to preserving our athletics history and creating engaging content, Dominik plays a vital role in showcasing what makes Averett athletics so special. This recognition reflects his talent, dedication and commitment to excellence."
Created in partnership with D3SIDA and College Sports Communicators, the program is designed to elevate the next generation of athletic communication leaders in Division III. Participants engage in interactive sessions focused on leadership development, managing and growing a team, cross-department collaboration, and navigating the evolving landscape of college athletics communications.
"On behalf of College Sports Communicators, I want to congratulate this outstanding group of Division III athletic communicators selected for the Emerging Elite Program," CSC Executive Director Jason Yaman said. "These professionals represent the future of our field — innovative storytellers, dedicated collaborators, and emerging leaders who are strengthening the visibility and impact of Division III athletics. We're proud to partner with the NCAA Division III and D3SIDA in supporting their continued growth and success."
Thirty participants are selected each year and receive full funding to attend the program in Indianapolis.
