UConn launches social media platform just for athletes

STORRS, Conn. (AP) — The University of Connecticut's athletic department, struggling financially and looking to re-engage its alumni base, has set up a social media platform exclusively for former athletes.

The National C Club is a web-based forum, open to the approximately 7,000 living former athletes or team managers who have earned an athletic letter at the school.

"We're trying to create a sort of like a LinkedIn for alumni student athletes," said Jamelle Elliott, a former basketball player and assistant coach, who was brought in this year as an associate athletic director to work with alumni. "You're able to connect with some of your teammates, some people who may have played your sport.