A Final Farewell From The Executive Editor: The Sports Nobody Became Somebody
By Derek Raridon
Whew, I mean where do I even begin?
Continuing the tradition the great Emerson Drewes started last year, I decided to say one final goodbye before I pass the torch to the next editor and jump into my professional journey. And I have got to say, I am both petrified and jumping at the bit to really get things going post-college.
My Outlook account (which was severely underused, sorry B-Sandy), my NetID and everything else I have held dear for the past four years will soon be erased from the school’s database, and I will just be another statistic the university can use to show their students are graduating “on time.” However, the tens of stories I wrote will remain, showcasing the growth both personally and journalistically one can have while working for student media for their entire time in college.
My time at the Nevada Sagebrush and UNR as a whole is not one filled to the brim with sorrow or glee, but a comeuppance tale of an outsider who found a home in the newsroom and the friends he found thanks to it.
My journey
From the first minute of NevadaFIT, I knew I wanted to be part of the Sagebrush. I took journalism classes in high school, and my teacher was the one who not only pushed for me to come to UNR but also to contribute my skills to the newspaper. I started writing recaps, from “smaller” sports like golf and track and field to the big hitters like football and basketball. I was even offered the opportunity to cover multiple football games in the press box as a freshman, which I gladly accepted.
The process was rough. I jumped into the press box with nothing but my phone (for reference, everyone else had a MacBook and a notepad) and a very bright smile. Despite being horrendously underprepared, I almost couldn’t stop smiling, and that one instance (and the next one a month later) started the base for my love of reporting.
Over time, the sports section disappeared, and I was left as the only writer left in the section – and that includes the section editor as well. Once the dust cleared, I took over the sports editor role in Spring 2023. It was more of the same as we did when I was a writer, but the section slowly but surely grew in number, content and quality.
Then, one year later, after growing the sports section to a point of self-sufficiency, I took the reins of executive editor. I am proud to say that I am the first male executive editor to serve a full year under the title since Jacob Solis, who served from 2016-2018.
Thank you to my staff and advisors
To say I have done a lot in the last four years is an understatement, and I won’t put everything on here for all of our sake. Instead, I want to highlight my staff and the people who helped me along the way. Without them, the Sagebrush wouldn’t be where it is today.
To Siena Howard: In the rampant search I was going through to find a copy editor, I am happy that I found your resume. Over the past couple of months, you have shown everyone why I was so excited to bring you in. I know you are just starting your career with the group, and I look forward to seeing where your skills take the newsroom.
To Wisdom Scott: When Brooke left, I did not know where the design section would go. Then you came in, and it is safe to say both our newspaper and graphics have gotten better because of that. Thank you for the work and laughs you bring, I am happy that you decided to join the newsroom and make our stories look the best they can.
To Jason Cruz: Your passion and energy to provide a voice to the marginalized communities on campus spoke volumes through your work with us, and while things did not go as planned for some weeks, I am proud of everything you have done. Thank you for bringing your in-
turned from last year had a feeling of anxiety around continuing the work the previous editor did before us, and you took it in stride with arguably the hardest role as news editor. The news section flourished thanks to you, and while I am sad you will be leaving, just know I am damn proud of everything you have done over the past year. I look forward to seeing your research and/or articles in the future.
To Emily Hess: We went through the wringer together. From the sarcastic comments we made to each other to the serious, harsher conversations we had, it has been a journey, to say the least. Thank you for giving us everything you had this year, you have truly embodied what it means to be a Sagebrusher. Please remember to take care of yourself and to breathe as you go into what I can imagine will be a promising and fulfilling career.
To Kelsea Frobes: Your passion for student media shined while you were the senator for the journalism school, and it has culminated in you taking the reins next school year. Although we really never interacted much outside of the RSJ, I am happy to know the Sagebrush will be in good hands after my time is up. I know you will make all of us proud and will keep the Sagebrush alive well past your time. The torch is yours, go shine a bright light for everyone.
To James Wolfgang Perez: As I have stated publicly, you changed my writing when you first got to the Sagebrush, and to see what you have done in two years is crazy. There’s a reason why you are one of the youngest people to win the Scripps award as of late, and while I jokingly say it’s a little bit because of my teachings, it’s all because of the man and journalist you are. It sucks that I won’t be able to walk that stage with you, but just know, I am extremely proud of who and what you have become, and you will do great things in the sports world and wherever you grace your presence with.
fessional field together as well. Thank you for everything, Dom. It has meant the world to me that you have stayed by my side.
To Gabby Turner and Amy Koeckes: I would’ve been lost without the two of you. Your help in the fall (Amy) and spring (Gabby) made managing the Sagebrush way easier. If it weren’t for the two of you aiding me through all of the things we did this year, I do not think the fruits of our labor would’ve
sights and skills to the group.
To Alex Psak: It’s weird to think that it’s already been a year since we met you at the Journalism LLC event. Thank you for the work, laughs and girl talk in the newsroom. You have already grown so much, but still have much room before you hit your ceiling. And I know you will do everything to reach and break that ceiling. I look forward to seeing you at that point.
To Nick Stewart: I remember talking with the staff at the time during the 2023 Executive Editor interviews after hearing your presentation and saying that if we didn’t talk to you about joining our staff, we were not being smart. Whether it was as assistant or photo editor, the growth in your work and you has been outstanding. It was fun standing with you during these past two years.
To Peregrine Hart: I believe all of us who re-
To Maddie Gomes: It’s crazy to think what seven months can do, huh? When you first burst onto the Sagebrush scene, I had a feeling that you would be making your mark very early. And I was right. Not only have you aided the coverage we were already doing, but you pushed me and the boys to start working on other multimedia things like the short, on-site recaps and interview videos. You are just starting, and you have already set yourself apart from almost everyone around you. Keep being you and pushing James. You are destined to do great things in the sports world.
To Dominic Gutierrez: My brother. I still think back fondly to the day when we met and talked about the now-discontinued Panera Bread flatbread pizzas. From there, we carried the sports section to where it is today, and we pushed each other to be our best even when we didn’t want to be. Sharing the moments we have since we met has made my college experience what it should’ve been from the get-go, and now we go into the pro-
Photos by Saurabh Chawla
Austen-tatiously Perfect – UNR’s Theatre and Dance Pride and Prejudice Review
By Emily Hess
In the Redfield Studio Theatre at the University of Nevada, Reno, Kate Hamill’s Pride and Prejudice roared to life with all the romance and razor-sharp wit of Austen’s original—but with a twist: this production isn’t your mother’s period drama. Under the inspired direction of Rosie Brownlow-Calkin, the Department of Theatre & Dance’s latest production pulses with modern energy, smart pacing, and a cast that feels like it was born to inhabit these roles.
From the very first scene, Ora Harris as Mrs. Bennet brought unrelenting passion and comic timing to the role of the highstrung matriarch. Her every line landed with purpose, making the character’s desperation for suitable matches both hilarious and somehow tender. Harris’ chemistry with Luis Galvez as Mr. Bennet was a particular highlight—together, they created an effortless, lived-in dynamic that felt like watching an old married couple you know personally. Galvez’s dry, sardonic line deliveries made him the perfect foil to Harris’ explosive emotional energy, and their scenes together often drew some of the biggest laughs of the night.
Alyssa Von Eberstein took her final UNR bow as the clever and passionate Lizzy Bennet. Her portrayal was a tour de force— sharp-tongued, deeply emotional, and radiantly confident. She embodied Lizzy with ease, wielding modern language twists with precision and grounding every quip in truth. The way she layered strength and vulnerability made her performance unforgettable. Watching Alyssa on stage felt like witnessing someone step fully into their power—and what a final performance to remember her by.
Emma Harris’ Jane Bennet was warm and gentle, offering a sweet contrast to Lizzy’s fiery presence. Her sisterly chemistry with Von Eberstein was honest and heartening. Kaylyn Duncan’s Mary stole scenes with a hilariously brooding presence,
By Emily Hess
UNR Theatre is officially back and better than ever. From the top-tier performances to the vibrant costumes and the stunning set design, every element came together to create a show that felt professional, fresh, and full of heart. But let’s clear up a significant point: live music has been a vibrant part of UNR Theatre’s recent history, not just this production. From orchestras in shows like Assassins to the dynamic ensembles in Cabaret and the student-directed 9 to 5 featuring live pianists, UNR Theatre has consistently showcased the talents of real musicians, enriching each performance and honoring the hard work of these dedicated individuals. Our previous statement overlooked these contributions, and we are happy to correct the record.
In Guys and Dolls, the tradition of live music continues to enhance our theatrical experience. Although it wasn’t a full pit, the presence of live instrumentalists—our first since the pandemic—elevated the entire production, adding warmth, dynamism, and a level of energy that simply can’t be replicated with pre-recorded tracks. The interplay between the singers and the musicians brought an organic, electric feel to the show, making moments like “Luck Be a Lady” and “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” feel bigger, fuller, and more immersive. The difference was night and day, and we hope this signals a permanent return to live accompaniment in all future productions.
This entire cast could SING. Not just “carry a tune” sing, but belt out Broadway-worthy powerhouse performances. Every harmony was tight, every solo was breathtaking, and every ensemble number had the kind of big, full sound that makes a musical truly feel alive.
Elysia Martinez as Sarah Brown delivered a flawless performance, balancing her character’s initial prim and proper demeanor with the fiery passion that emerges later in the show. Her voice was crisp, controlled, and full of depth, making “If I Were a Bell” a standout moment of the night. Her chemistry with Sky Masterson, played by Marco Bisio III, was electric, making their romance feel both believable and compelling. On the comedic side, Zoe McCracken as Miss Adelaide was absolutely phenomenal. Every single scene she was in was a highlight, from the hilariously neurotic “Adelaide’s Lament” to the show-stopping ensemble numbers. She was the beating heart of this production, bringing both humor and unexpected emotional weight to her performance. She had the audience in stitches one moment and pulling for her the next—a true star. Bisio III as Sky Masterson was the definition of effortless cool. He nailed the classic suave gambler persona, but what made his
leaning into the character’s awkward intellect in a way that was both original and endearing.
Miela Offerle burst onto the stage as Lydia with boundless energy, delivering every moment with chaotic charm and comedic flair. Peyton Tuley’s Charlotte was a study in subtlety and internal depth, anchoring Charlotte’s choices in realism and emotional weight. Alex Mead, also graduating, made an indelible impression as Miss Bingley. Every line and gesture was dripping in sass and snark, and his performance was a comedic masterclass. Mead’s final performance on the UNR stage was unforgettable— full of confidence, charisma, and an unmistakable sense of fun. It’s clear he’ll shine in whatever comes next.
Benit Hensley as Darcy gave the kind of slow-burn performance audiences crave—stern and restrained at first, then deeply heartfelt and transformative. His chemistry with Von Eberstein built steadily, each scene raising the stakes and tension. Bradley Simons as Wickham was charming with just the right edge of deception, while Kiernan Pederson as Mr. Collins brought the house down with every awkward bow and pompous word.
Kieran Pedersen (Collins), Marianne Enger (Lady Catherine de Bourgh), and Kenzie Marks (Anne de Bourgh) added color and flair in their respective roles, rounding out a cast that worked in beautiful harmony. Each performer brought specificity and presence that elevated the ensemble and gave the world of the play texture and life.
The creative design elevated every beat. Scenic design by Gady Connor and Bill Ware provided a simple but versatile space that transformed effortlessly between ballrooms, drawing rooms, and garden paths. The lighting design by Don J. Eller created mood and movement—at times playful, at others romantic or contemplative. Subtle shifts in light guided the audience emotionally from scene to scene.
Costume designer Leah Hummel and wig designer Leslie Stamoolis blended period silhouettes with whimsical, modern accents, mirroring the tone of the script perfectly. From corsets to combat boots, each look added to the unique voice of the production. Stage manager Ru Cole and assistant stage manager Jay Pratt kept everything running like clockwork, and intimacy director Thomas Rao’s influence was visible in how grounded and safe even the most vulnerable moments felt.
Every backstage and behind-the-scenes contributor—from dramaturg Madison Youngblood to the lighting and sound ops, props crew, costume construction students, and run crew— brought precision and passion to this production. Their collective energy radiated from the stage and made this world feel fully alive.
UNR’s Pride and Prejudice is more than a retelling—it’s a reimagining. A celebration of love, growth, and what it means to be seen. With performances running through April 13, don’t miss your chance to witness a production that honors the past while joyfully pushing into the present.
And to the graduating seniors—Alyssa Von Eberstein, Miela Offerle and Alex Mead—your work on this stage has been luminous. Congratulations!
In the Redfield Studio Theatre at the University of Nevada, Reno, Kate Hamill’s Pride and Prejudice roared to life with all the romance and razor-sharp wit of Austen’s original—but with a twist: this production isn’t your mother’s period drama. Under the inspired direction of Rosie Brownlow-Calkin, the Department of Theatre & Dance’s latest production pulses with mod-
performance special was the depth he brought to the role. His voice was velvety smooth, making “Luck Be a Lady” one of the night’s most memorable moments.
Meanwhile, MJ Boga as Nathan Detroit embodied the nervous, fast-talking con man with absolute perfection. His comedic timing was impeccable, and his back-and-forth with McCracken’s Adelaide was hilarious and heartfelt. He made Nathan both lovable and exasperating—the perfect combination for the character.
And then there was Richie Fericks as Nicely Nicely Johnson, who took the already iconic “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” and turned it into a full-blown, barn-burning, thunderous showstopper. The sheer vocal power, the charisma, the comedic brilliance—unreal. The audience was clapping along, fully caught up in the moment; and when the number ended, the ovation lasted longer than any other in the show.
The set design was next-level. The production transported the audience straight into the world of Guys and Dolls with a visual spectacle that made every scene feel immersive. The flashing neon of Times Square, the gritty underground gambling dens, the romantic glow of Havana—every location felt distinct and vibrant. Scene changes were seamless, with clever staging that kept the momentum going without slowing down the action. Lighting played a huge role in setting the mood, from the dim, shadowy glow of the craps game to the soft, golden hues of the romantic duets. And the costumes? Perfection. Adelaide’s showgirl outfits sparkled, the gamblers’ suits were crisp, and even the Hot Box Dancers’ ensembles felt era-appropriate and full of personality.
Opinions expressed in The Nevada Sagebrush are solely thoseoftheauthoranddonotnecessarilyexpresstheviewsof TheSagebrushoritsstaff.EmilyHessisastudentattheUniversityofNevadastudyingjournalism.Shecanbereachedat emilyhess@sagebrush.unr.eduandonTwitter@emilyghess3.
ern energy, smart pacing, and a cast that feels like it was born to inhabit these roles.
From the very first scene, Ora Harris as Mrs. Bennet brought unrelenting passion and comic timing to the role of the highstrung matriarch. Her every line landed with purpose, making the character’s desperation for suitable matches both hilarious and somehow tender. Harris’ chemistry with Luis Galvez as Mr. Bennet was a particular highlight—together, they created an effortless, lived-in dynamic that felt like watching an old married couple you know personally. Galvez’s dry, sardonic line deliveries made him the perfect foil to Harris’ explosive emotional energy, and their scenes together often drew some of the biggest laughs of the night.
Alyssa Von Eberstein took her final UNR bow as the clever and passionate Lizzy Bennet. Her portrayal was a tour de force— sharp-tongued, deeply emotional, and radiantly confident. She embodied Lizzy with ease, wielding modern language twists with precision and grounding every quip in truth. The way she layered strength and vulnerability made her performance unforgettable. Watching Alyssa on stage felt like witnessing someone step fully into their power—and what a final performance to remember her by.
Continued online at thenevadasagebrush.com
Nick Stewart can be reached at ns@nevadasagebrush.com or on Twitter @nickk_stewart. EmilyHessisastudentattheUniversityof Nevadastudyingjournalism.Shecanbereachedatemilyhess@ sagebrush.unr.eduandonTwitter@emilyghess3.
Nick Stewart/Nevada Sagebrush
Nick Stewart/Nevada Sagebrush
Nevada Softball Clinches First Mountain West Title in School History in Series Sweep vs. CSU
By: Dominic Gutierrez
For the first time since 2009 and the first in the Mountain West, the Nevada softball team has clinched a regular-season conference title after its series sweep against Colorado State from May 1 to 3. The title is the Wolf Pack’s first since 2009 in the WAC. With the series against CSU being their final of the season, Nevada finishes 40-12 overall and 18-4 in conference play. It’s the second consecutive year the Wolf Pack have finished with 40 wins.
Under first-year head coach Victoria Hayward, Nevada was projected to finish fifth place in the Mountain West preseason poll. To say the team overshot expectations is an understatement, and just 11 months after Hayward was hired, she’s led her team to a conference title.
Game one of the series against the Rams is where all the magic began. A win in game one would at least give Nevada a share of the conference title. A win is exactly what the Pack got, ending the game with a 7-3 victory.
Second baseman Madison Clark was Nevada’s standout hitter in game one, going 3-4 with two RBIs, two stolen bases and scoring two runs. Starting pitcher Hailey McLean started and earned the win after pitching five innings, allowing just three runs on four hits and four strikeouts.
A win in game two would give Nevada sole possession of the conference title, and they did so in a walk-off fashion, ending the game in five innings with an 8-0 victory.
Starting pitcher Ainsley Berlingeri threw a complete game shutout, going all five innings with two hits, a walk, and three strikeouts. She also carried a no-hitter into the third.
Five of Nevada’s eight runs were scored in the first, powered by a two-run single by infielder Haylee Engelbrecht, an RBI double by outfielder Lexi O’Gorman, and a two-run homer from Maya Larsen. Larsen also scored the final run of the game to end it in five innings.
Game three was fairly similar, ending in an 8-2 win to complete the sweep. Pitcher Tess Bumiller started the season finale, going for innings while giving up one run on three hits and two strikeouts.
Colorado State started ahead in this one after an RBI double in the first. Nevada quickly responded in the bottom half with an RBI triple by catcher Aaliyah Jenkins. Utility player Alycia Coats homered in the second, and Nevada proceeded to score in every inning except for the final two. A four-run fourth inning powered Nevada to win No. 40.
Nevada also celebrated its three seniors in this game, Coats, Jenkins and outfielder Tatum Maytorena.
With the conference clinched, Nevada will be the first seed in next week’s Mountain West tournament in Boise. Nevada is also expected to host the 2026 conference tournament.
Dominic Gutierrez can be reached via email dominicgutierrez@unr.edu or via X
@d_m_g_16
By: Emily Hess
While little princesses twirled and tiaras sparkled down on the field, another kind of magic was unfolding high above Greater Nevada Field—one without wands or fairy godmothers, but just as crucial. In the Aces’ control room, it wasn’t glass slippers making the night happen. It was headsets, hustle, and a whole lot of fast thinking. On Princess Night, every camera cue, every scoreboard graphic, every moment of sparkle had to be timed just right. The crew behind the screens worked like clockwork—minus the midnight curfew. With dozens of monitors blinking and voices cutting through the headset chatter, they made
sure every surprise proposal, every glittering moment, and every sing-along hit its mark. Because behind every great ballpark fairy tale… there’s a crew that refuses to let the magic fade. It’s easy to see the players on the field or the fireworks in the sky. It’s a little harder to spot the magic-makers behind the scenes—the team that turns a night at the ballpark into a story fans will remember long after the final pitch.
Emily Hess can be reached via email at emilyhess@sagebrush.unr.edu.
