Volume 131, Issue 7: February 2, 2022

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Ouachita Baptist University

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The Signal is the student newspaper of Ouachita Baptist University, and is published twice a month on Thursdays during the fall and spring semesters when school is in session. The newspaper is distributed free of charge; 1,200 copies are placed in more than 20 locations across campus.

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RecLife Snow Retreat challenges faith

BY CAMRYN MANNING Staff Writer

A group of students led by Shane Seaton, director of recreational life, and Hannah Seaton, discipleship coordinator for Campus Ministries, departed from Ouachita on Jan. 9, for the OBU Snow Retreat at HoneyRock Camp in Wisconsin. After two days of travel, the students enjoyed a variety of activities at the camp, including skiing, horseback riding, broomball, ice canoeing, snowshoeing and more.

Amidst the activities, the students were challenged in their faith and strengthened friendships. The trip was made possible by the Seatons, who attended graduate school at HoneyRock.

“The Snow Retreat gives the students an affordable trip to experience all that a winter wonderland has to offer,” Seaton said. “Thanks to the amazing people at HoneyRock, the trip not only gave students a chance to play in the snow, but there was also intentional programming to draw them closer to God and closer to one another.”

The trip featured many snow activities. Freshman Rebecca Danuwar particularly enjoyed cross-country skiing.

“None of us had ever done it before,” Danuwar said. “It was hilarious because we were falling all over the place. When we went on the trail, we accidentally took a wrong turn, and about 85 percent of us fell down the hill because we didn’t know how to slow down.”

Another hit activity was broomball, which involves running around on ice while trying to hit a ball into a goal with a stick that has a rubber triangle on the end.

“I loved playing broomball with the students,” Seaton said. “As can be imagined, the ice is very slippery so there is a lot of comical falling and sliding around. We played

almost every night we were there. The students had a blast every time and were always encouraging. It was great to see them increase in skill, confidence and teamwork as the week progressed.”

When not playing in the cold, students were encouraged to dive into their faith.

“One of the goals of the trip was that the students would experience God and draw closer to Him,” Seaton said. “Therefore, everything we did was worshipful. There were also intentional activities where students participated in devotionals, went on a snowy prayer walk one evening, had two hours of solo time where they were alone with God, shared their struggles and stories with one another and worshipped God through music.”

The students participated in a devotional each day that was themed, “Drawing Closer to God.”

“I’ve never felt closer to God than I did that week,” Danuwar said. “We were out in nature, not on our phones and disconnected from technology. Being close to God with these people and being vulnerable with them was an amazing experience.”

Senior Jenna Barnes enjoyed the devotionals because they were different from the ones she’s completed in the past.

“They weren’t like a typical devotional with a passage and then thinking about it,” Barnes said. “It was more of a ‘here’s a topic, share your experience if you’re comfortable’ type thing. There were so many things we shared. We were all strangers before this trip, but now we know each other on a deeper level.”

The students were given two hours of reflection on their own, which was meant to draw them

closer to God in nature.

“The solo time went along with the devotionals, and then we’d come together,” said senior Alexander Browning. “We talked about things we were seeing that God had done in the past year, bringing us all closer together.”

Several students left the trip with a new understanding of stillness in God’s creation.

“I think this trip was the first time I’d ever, that I can remember, been fully still in nature, seeing God’s craftsmanship and beauty of his creation,” Danuwar said. “I’ve taken away how to be still outside and listen to God.

Danuwar added, “One day on the trip I was on a hill with another girl watching the sunset, and you could look all around and hear the wind around us. It was surreal, crazy and just beautiful.”

Freshman Leah Gamble explains

how nature impacted her. “Seeing the magnitude of the snow and mountains, I felt small but not insignificant because God made all of this for us to enjoy,” Gamble said. “My takeaway from the trip is seeing that there is much more to life than just where I am now. I need to stay open-minded and think about the big picture.”

The students on the trip didn’t know each other much or at all before going, but that quickly changed as the trip was underway.

“Though all these activities were super active, we got to build each other back up through the times we sat and talked with each other, not only about everyday things but also about our relationships with God and what we were learning on the trip,” Gamble said.

The trip included students from across OBU, and many students who were once strangers or acquaintances became close friends.

“All the friends I made had the biggest impact on me,” Barnes said. “I’m a music major and stick within the department, and I know most of the people there. I got my core credits in high school, so I’ve never really interacted with other majors. Now, I have friendships across the campus, from dietetics to communications to business.”

Browning added, “We really got to know each other closely, and we still have a group text we talk in constantly. It was great to get to know a bunch of other people that I either didn’t know or wasn’t close to beforehand and get to know how God has worked in their lives.”

The Snow Retreat is held once every two years, and students who went on the trip would be quick to advise going.

“If you’re thinking about going, just do it,” Gamble said. “I made a last-second decision to go and it ended up being the best decision I’ve made in a long time.”

Riley Kratz, sophomore nursing major from Arkadelphia, Ark., rides a horse in the snowy mountains of Wisconsin. Kratz attended the RecLife snow retreat and particpated in many outdoor activities with the group. (photo by Shane Seaton)

CFW planning team gears up for “God’s Unexpected Ways”

BY MATTHEW CHEATHAM Staff Writer

As we enter a new semester, students face constant change and the noise of campus life. Ouachita recognizes this and understands the vital importance of pressing into God during this time.

A great representation of this is Christian Focus Week (CFW), which takes place annually in the spring semester. From February 6-10, students will be given a unique opportunity to grow in faith through worship services, breakout sessions and other events that take place at various points each day.

Ouachita expresses its commitment to students finding Jesus and growing stronger in their faith by canceling classes that would interfere with CFW chapel.

Seniors Ashlyn Hamm and Emily Waters are serving as the ministry leaders for this year’s CFW. This week is a well-known event on campus, and consequently, one that takes a large amount of planning. This year’s theme will be “God’s Unexpected Ways.”

Ouachita invites future tigers to the 2023 President’s Leadership Forum

BY ALFONSO GOMEZ Staff Writer

Ouachita hosted its sixth annual President’s Leadership Forum (PLF) last Sunday and Monday. The event is Ouachita’s way of bringing admitted high school students on campus and examining the traits that make good leaders in hopes of preparing them to take on such roles in the future.

“Based on Isaiah 55:8, the theme highlights how God’s plans for His people are often different than what we might expect,” Waters said. “Nevertheless, his plans are always for His glory and the good of His people.”

The leadership team is made up of a diverse group of alumni, faculty and staff that have been highly impactful at Ouachita. A five-star team made up of Chris Brune, Bryon Eubanks, Lewis Shepherd, Jeremy Greer, Scott Haynes, Shane Pruitt, Tyler and Anna Rosenthal, Hayden Walker, Cory and Stephanie Epps, Holly Woolbright and Mason Campbell.

“I’m most excited to see how God uses CFW to call and encourage people to follow Him,” Waters said. “Our team has been prayerfully seeking His guidance during the planning process, and I trust He will use this week to make a significant impact on the lives of students at Ouachita.”

James Taylor, director of campus ministries, is also instrumental in helping organize the week and recognizes the importance of the

university’s complete support.

“I’m always thankful for Ouachita’s faculty and staff who help support the week by being involved in sessions and in how they adjust schedules so that students can attend,” Taylor said. “I think that’s a pretty significant thing that our university devotes a special week for us to do this.”

Christian Focus Week serves a great purpose. It seeks to foster spiritual growth for students and strengthen their daily walk with God and obedience to Him.

“We obviously care about our faith every day and week, but this week provides a special emphasis that we hope encourages students’ faith,” Taylor stated. “I think understanding God’s will and ways is always of interest to college students, so I hope the week helps them out in navigating their own calling during and after college.”

Along with attending events throughout the week, CFW also offers students the opportunity to grow in their faith through service as well. To be a volunteer, sign up on Ouachita’s website.

President Ben Sells selects the invitees based on their high school academic record as well as their involvement in extracurricular activities.

Participants of PLF began the occasion with dinner at the Walker Conference Center on Jan. 29 at 5:30 p.m. From there, the attendees were split into breakout squads. Within smaller groups, the students were challenged with leadership exercises and got to develop stronger relationships with peers and staff members. Eventually, Saturday ended with everyone being brought back to Verser Theatre for a showing of the film “Everest.”

Although in previous years high schoolers spent the night at home and came back to Ouachita the next day, it has become an integral part of the PLF experience for guests to stay on campus overnight.

According to Lori Motl, director of admissions counseling and event organizer, “PLF has become a big reason as to why high school seniors choose Ouachita.”

Following their timely stay, students began their second day of PLF with breakfast and a leader-

ship case study on the movie they had seen the night before. The study was led by President Sells and analyzed where the Everest expedition succeeded and failed. Through the study, the students were able to grasp the qualities of a positive leader as well as the traits of a poor leader. From there, the high schoolers were sent off into groups once again.

The latter half of the event was meant to prepare students for the Last Leader Standing competition. In this competition, each group chose a leader that represented them, and they had to answer questions set by Ouachita faculty. Motl noted that in the last few years, the winners of Last Leader Standing have all gone on to not only attend Ouachita but excel as leaders within our University. This year’s winner was Emma Hill from Greenbrier, Ark. She plans to attend Ouachita next fall and play volleyball for the Tigers.

PLF also serves as a platform for young alumni to return and give words of wisdom to students that are only getting started at OBU. These alumni interacted with the high schoolers by accompanying them throughout the breakout groups and on the leadership panel.

Finally, the high schoolers were treated to a group photo, lunch and optional campus tours. Ouachita continues PLF year after year because it has shown to positively impact prospective students, and President Sells seeks to give them an experience that will aid their success wherever they go.

Dr. Barbara Pemberton and Hannah Walker speak at a Christian Focus Week event in Berry Chapel on Feb. 10, 2022. This year, Christian Focus week will be held Feb. 6-10, and the week will feature events such as worship services, breakout sessions and other events for students to particpate in, volunteer at and attend. (photo by Alex Watson)

Miss OBU candidates, director, titleholder prepare for 2023 scholarship competition

BY KATE ELLIS Staff Writer

The night has almost come for Miss Ouachita Baptist University Kaelin Clay to don her crown, sash and title for the last time. On Feb. 4, freshmen Abbigail Wood, Cali Mendonca and Savannah Carrigan, along with sophomore Haley Shourd will compete in the Miss OBU competition for the chance to represent Ouachita this upcoming year.

The competition will consist of a private interview with the judges, an onstage question, a 90-second talent portion and an evening wear category. Not only will the winner punch her ticket for the Miss Arkansas competition, but they will also be the face of Ouachita on campus and in the city of Arkadelphia.

Sarah Teed, director of Miss OBU, explains her role in executing the competition and the

attributes she believes Miss OBU should possess.

“My job as director is to find sponsors, hire seven independent judges, coordinate with JPAC’s crew, create programs and make sure the girls submit all their registration,” Teed said. “We as a society need more young women that have a strong work ethic, serve their community and push themselves to excel academically. Miss OBU should have Godly character, a great reputation, self-discipline, a heart for serving other people and more than anything, the ability to love and care for others. Miss OBU’s job is to simply encourage other people to be the best version of themselves.”

Between the available scholarship awards funded by generous donors, the opportunity to compete at Miss Arkansas and leadership status on campus, contestants have more than enough incentive to prepare ahead of time for the compe-

tition. Wood, who has competed in pageants since she was young, is more than prepared for the exciting upcoming endeavor.

“Over the past several months, I have been researching specific topics related to my social impact, catching up on current events, taking tap lessons and practicing my walk of course,” Wood said.

It is just as important to be prepared for the title as it is the competition, as contestants must know what they would do with the crown if they were to eventually wear it.

“It is important to have a plan for your year of service once you receive a title,” Wood said.“Talking to students around campus and hearing their opinions and concerns allows me to come up with a plan that will best serve my fellow Ouachitonians.

Wood added, “Ouachita and all of the students, faculty and staff have poured so much into me in the little time that I have been here.

Holding the title of Miss OBU would allow me to serve on campus and give back to the community of Ouachita. I would use this title to amplify my voice, educate others and bring awareness to my social impact initiative, ‘Let’s Be R.E.A.L. About Body Image,’ which addresses and brings awareness to body positivity.”

Although Jones Performing Arts Center will be abuzz with excitement on the night of the competition, there will be an air of bittersweetness for the reigning Miss OBU, sophomore Kaelin Clay.

“Naturally, I’m not necessarily excited to close this chapter because it’s certainly been a sweet one,” Clay said. “I’m grateful for all that this title gave me, and I’m grateful that out of this season deeper desires to promote my social impact initiative ‘The Confidence Blueprint,’ and my love for the Miss Arkansas Scholarship Organization was born. I’m ready

to open a new chapter, but I will always be particularly fond of this memorable one.”

Among many other duties, Miss OBU’s job is to lead with grace and leave behind a legacy for future winners to follow. It is safe to say that Kaelin Clay has done just that.

“I want to be remembered as a Miss OBU who is nothing short of approachable,” Clay said. “It has never been about the crown or the attention. I strive to show authenticity in everything I do, and I want my legacy to embody just that and the fact that I am simply the same Kaelin with or without the crown.”

Audience members can be sure to expect both talent and entertainment from the Miss OBU scholarship competition.

“Ouachita is known across the state for having incredible talent,” Teed said. “When Miss OBU shows up on the stage at Miss Arkansas, the audience is always excited to see what she does.”

Left: Miss OBU 2021, Caroline Derby, the Miss OBU 2022 candidates and the court of honor perform the opening number at the 2022 Miss OBU scholarship competition. (photo by Levi Dade) Right: The 2022 Miss Ouachita Baptist University candidates await the crowning of Miss OBU. A new Miss Ouachita Baptist University will be crowned by Miss OBU 2022, Kaelin Clay, on Feb. 4, 2023. (photo by Levi Dade)

Ouachita Singers set to go on tour

BY KAELIN CLAY Staff Writer

Ouachita Singers is set to depart for their second tour of the academic year on Feb. 5. The group is traveling to Northwest Arkansas to perform pieces like “Wena Weda,” a traditional Zulu piece; “Venite Exultemus Domino” by Jan Pieterszoo Sweelinck; “Beati Quorum Via” by Charles Villiers Stanford; “Thank You for the Music” from Mama Mia and many more. Another song they are taking with them is “Sing Unto God” written by Frances McBeth, who was on the music faculty at Ouachita for over 40 years.

On their way to the Northwest portion of the state, the group is making a pit stop and joining Ouachita’s Concert Choir at Geyer Springs Baptist Church in Little Rock to perform a set of worship music. With a selection like this, director of Ouachita Singers, Dr. Joshua Brown, is looking forward to a second stellar comeback tour.

“Singers tours at least once per year,” Brown said. “This year we

are making up for the COVID years by going to two. We went to the Dallas area this past fall and are going to NW Arkansas this semester. “I have been planning to sing at Geyer Springs and tour Northwest Arkansas for multiple years, but COVID has prevented us from touring. So, this is the first time I have actually ever been to Northwest Arkansas. That said, it is always special when we get to tour and share our music with folks outside of campus.”

In addition to Geyer Springs attendees, students in Springdale, Rogers and Bentonville will have the joy of listening to Ouachita’s premiere choral ensemble while the musical faculty hopes that those students will choose Ouachita to master and grow their musical craft and capabilities.

“We tour to share our choral music outside of Ouachita – primarily with high school students in the hopes that they will consider coming to Ouachita for college,” Brown said.

One particular Ouachita student has an interesting, yet not unique,

experience with being enticed by a tour much like this one in her high school days. Ouachita Singers president Julia Letcher shares her excitement for students who are in the position she was once in.

“I am most looking forward to meeting students who could someday come to Ouachita,” Letcher said. “I came here to pursue musical theatre because Ouachita Singers came to my high school, and it was cool when I got here to be able to sing with some of those students.”

Tours like this one not only create an attachment to Ouachita for high school students, but they also tie together the choir that has already been bonding throughout this school year. With church, scheduled meals and rides together, there are plenty of opportunities for the choir to curate memories that will remind them of the friendship found in their making of beautiful music.

“We get to spend a lot of time together on the bus and in between times, so we get to know one another well,” Letcher said. “This

helps our music because we have trust with one another as an ensemble and our sound is more cohesive and balanced.”

You can keep up with Ouachita Singers’ adventures by following their Instagram handle @ouachitasingers.

Sequel 10 years in the making smashes box office

BY WYATT ASHLOCK Guest Writer

Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, “Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)” begins to tell the story of the Sully family: Jake (Sam Worthington), Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) and their kids, the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive and the tragedies they endure.

Director James Cameron brings the world of Pandora back to life with some of the most beautiful cinematography to ever grace the big screen. Cameron’s vision is

extraordinary when it comes to the different races of the Na’vi, the culture of the Na’vi and all of the different creatures. From the forest creatures to the sea creatures, it all looks real. There are certain times when it felt like a video game cutscene, but other times, it felt like a documentary.

Not only is this film cinematically beautiful, but it has a great story with a strong message about stealing land and adds new topics of discussion including hunting, preservation and family.

All of the actors and actresses do a phenomenal job of bringing their characters to life. The three that

stood out the most to me were Saldana, Sigourney Weaver (Kiri) and Britain Dalton (Lo’ak). Saldana’s range of emotions is exceptional, and how she shows a mother’s love for her children is heart-wrenching. Weaver brings a 14-year-old version of herself to life that somehow works in this film. Dalton is the stand-out actor when it comes to the children in the film. Dalton’s portrayal of Lo’ak, a Na’vi who feels like an outcast from the rest of his people, is a very relatable performance.

Simon Franglen does an excellent job at composing a score that immerses the audience in the world

of Pandora while at the same time not overwhelming the film. Franglen creates different scores for the different environments, which helps give each biome its own identity.

This film is slowly climbing to the top of the box office charts for top lifetime grossing being in the top four of all time, along with “Avatar (2012),” “Avengers: Endgame” (2019) and “Titanic (1997).” I predict that by the end of its theatrical run, it will climb to the number one spot.

“The Way of Water” has no beginning and no end, and the same rings true with a runtime of three

hours and 12 minutes. While the runtime may be a tad long for the average moviegoer, I loved every second of it. I’ve seen the film three times so far and every time I noticed details that gave me a deeper appreciation for the film. I can’t wait to see where Cameron takes the Sully family in the next installment.

“Avatar: The Way of Water” is an intense roller coaster from beginning to end earning it a 4 out of 5 film reels. Carve three hours out of your Saturday and watch this must-see movie. This film is exclusively in theaters until July 8, when it will come to Disney+.

The Ouachita singers perform at their concert in October. This group of students have prepared for their choral tour in Northwest Arkansas. (photo by Levi Dade)

Graduating in a troublesome economy

BY JULIA SHANDS Editor-in-Chief

College students, but especially seniors, feel the immense pressures of inflation. With groceries being at an all-time high, it’s become difficult to keep fridges stocked, and seniors are expected to enter this turbulent market with little to their name and no solid ground to stand on. It’s apparent on the faces of those who will soon walk across the stage to receive their diplomas that fear and worry are constantly surrounding them like helicopter parents. I’m here to tell you what to expect after turning your tassel on May 13 and how the Tigers can end up on top.

First, the economy hasn’t yet taken a turn for the worst. Employers are currently facing the issue of not being able to fill their available roles with qualified applicants; therefore, there’s a shortage of employees. Although this seems positive for job-searching seniors,

there could be a quick shift in this trend as the economy continues to slow.

Dr. Chris Brune, professor of finance, explains the potential cause of this shift and what negative consequences we may face as inflation steadily increases across the country.

“The Federal Reserve has been highly focused on reducing inflation,” Brune said. “The primary tool used by the Fed to fight inflation is the interest rate it charges banks for loans. As the rate increases, banks pass along the higher cost to companies who need capital to continue growing their business.”

An increase in interest rates on bank loans leads to an increase in expenses for companies looking to expand, which in turn, forecasts the inevitable downturn graduates are dreading to see.

Brune added, “And as the cost of borrowing increases, businesses either look for other expenses to

reduce or see their business cease to grow. When this outcome is repeated across the economy, the potential for a recession increases, and businesses may pull back on hiring as one way to further reduce expenses.”

results.

“New graduates may need to broaden their searches,” Brune said. “That’s not to say that good jobs won’t be available for good candidates, but finding the ideal job in the ideal location may become more challenging. Remember that it’s rare to find your dream job right out of the gate.”

Effort is key in our economic decline because competition is high. Do more than what’s expected of you. Besides perfecting your resume and cover letter, your LinkedIn profile should speak volumes. In recent years, LinkedIn has shifted from being more than a platform to make connections; now, it’s the number one hiring platform.

ions. Those in high positions want to see that you can develop your own ideas on prevalent topics.

Adam Wheat, director of career and calling, also encourages seniors to put opportunity in their own hands. Ultimately, the economy makes job hunting harder but getting a job is up to you.

“The economy as a whole does not determine whether you get a job,” Wheat said. “That power still lies partly in your hands and partly in the hands of the employers you approach. Even with the shifts we are seeing in the market, there are still plenty of jobs being offered.”

Let this worry fuel your fire and encourage you to put your best foot forward in the aspects you can control during the hiring process. This, along with being open-minded, can help you to achieve positive

In a recent conversation, Judy Campbell, president of JC Strategies, recommended that job seekers not only broaden their connections but also post leadership articles and share their thoughts and opin-

So, should you be worried about getting a job in this economy? It definitely makes the process more difficult, but if you’re willing to put in the work and demonstrate a mindset geared toward learning, you’ve got a good shot of obtaining everything you’ve ever dreamed of—an eight to five and a 401K. You’re one step closer to the American dream.

Seven ways to spend your spring semester

BY KATIE BAYER Staff Writer

The spring semester at Ouachita can be stressful for some. Bookended by Rush Week in January and graduation in May, it can leave a handful of students feeling anxious and searching for relief. If this is you, then today is your lucky day! Whether you are a freshman seeking out adventure, or a weary senior looking to create some last-minute memories, there are plenty of opportunities on campus to fit every need.

1. Christian Focus Week: This is an annual event in early February that strives to encourage stu-

dents in their faith through a variety of seminars across campus. Often, professors will cancel meeting times for the day to allow involvement in this tradition. Listen to speakers (students, faculty, and otherwise) from Feb. 6-10.

2. EscapeFest: For the first time ever, Ouachita will be hosting an escape room experience on Sat. Feb. 18. Feel free to come by yourself or with a group of friends to brave the rooms in this exciting new tradition. Or, if you’d like to put your creative skills to use, you can sign up to design a 20-minute game with the opportunity of winning a cash prize.

3. Intramurals: If you enjoyed

human foosball last year, then be prepared for a second round of fun! The spring semester offers a fresh assortment of friendly sports, starting with basketball and followed by more intramural opportunities as the semester progresses.

4. Tiger Traks: On April 15, Ouachita will be hosting the next annual Tiger Traks event. This is a tradition that you do not want to miss. From trike races and water polo to a gauntlet of games played in a giant mud pit, Traks will satisfy your need for fun during the weekend. Grab a group of friends and make a team, then be sure to enter for the time of your life!

5. One Acts: One of the most

entertaining activities each semester are the One Act plays hosted by the Ouachita Theatre Department. Students from the department write original scripts to be put on stage, and auditions are open to all of campus. If you’ve always wanted to give your acting skills a try, this is the perfect outlet for you. Or, if you prefer to sit back and watch the show, One Acts will certainly deliver an unforgettable performance for all audience members to enjoy.

6. Trips to Lake DeGray: Winter is soon to melt away, leaving behind that gorgeous spring weather we’ve all been waiting for. What better way to spend your semester than with a trip (or ten) down to

Arkadelphia’s Lake DeGray for an afternoon dip? If swimming isn’t your thing, you can always grab a beach towel or two and stretch out in the sun for some springtime fun.

7. Make your own fun: Don’t shy away from creating your own adventures this spring. Go on a day trip with friends or branch out on your own to see what all Ouachita and Arkadelphia have to offer. There’s something for everyone here at Ouachita. While these are only a few suggestions, there are countless ways to spend this semester. No matter how you choose to fill your time, we at the Signal hope that it’s just what you need to put a “spring” in your step!

OBU tennis team anticipates successful season

BY AUSTYNN CROCKER Staff Writer

The Ouachita’s men’s tennis team is fast approaching its first tennis match of the spring season this weekend and is starting off strong ranked number 14 in Division II. Both the spring and fall seasons of 2022 contributed to their high national ranking this season.

Junior Alex Blancher competes on the men’s tennis team. “Last season was hard personally,” Blancher said. “I didn’t play my best tennis, but I competed really well. We had a really good connection between all of us and that helped the team a lot to reach our goals.”

Being a junior, Alex experienced the dreaded COVID year where real competition was impossible, which did not contribute to the team’s cohesiveness.

“When I started as a freshman, I was in the mindset of an individual sport,” Blancher said. “My teammates were people that I had to beat.”

Through playful competition, the men’s tennis team has been able to grow and form relationships with each other, which has helped their overall play and led to their national ranking. Rather than, competing against each other, they have begun to compete for each other. “I feel that we are all mentally prepared to compete as a team

this season,” Blancher said. “All the new members are very excited to play and that is very good for the team’s morale.”

Along with team cohesiveness came team victories. During the 2022 spring season, the team only lost a handful of matches and was awarded the first seed at conference. Men’s tennis fought hard to get to the finals at conference where they beat SAU in a close couple of matches. They went on to beat Washburn at regionals, solidifying their place at nationals. They lost by one point at nationals in the 16th round.

Junior Fernando Doctors explains his reasoning for this success. “I think the key was that we were all preparing for the season at 100 percent effort, and we all wanted to win so badly,” Doctors said. “Overall, I think it was a really good season for the team, and we had some great experiences.”

When asked about the 2023 season Doctors expressed optimism for future competitions, “I think there is a difference between the team from last year with the current one,” Doctors said “This season we hope to improve what we did last year. We are ready for new challenges and we would like to go even deeper into what we did last year to improve the results.” The Ouachita Baptist men’s tennis team finished strong last year, and they plan to carry that into this season.

Women begin inaugural indoor track & field season

BY ISAAC BOURNE Sports Editor

The Ouachita women’s indoor track and field team saw record-breaking success in the FasTrak Collegiate Challenge hosted by the University of Houston in Houston, Texas last Saturday,

where seven Ouachita records were broken in spectacular fashion.

Karis Martin, Savannah Carrigan, Alexis Perry, Presley Roberts, Mackenzie Davis, Rebekah Wendt, Amerie Thomas and Victoria Bourgeois all set records in Houston. Martin set records in the 60-meter dash (8.15), the 200-meter dash

(26.88) and tied for the record in the long jump (5.08m) with teammate Savannah Carrigan. Perry set a record in the 400-meter dash (1:02.13), while Roberts did in the 800-meter dash (2:31.41), and Davis set the record for the 5000-meter race, recording a time of 18:05.06. Finally, a 4x400m relay

squad of Rebekah Wendt, Amerie Thomas, Victoria Bourgeois and Alexis Perry set a new record of 4:12.72 in the event.

This meet comes as the first official event for the new varsity indoor track team, which had been competing as a club up to this point. Coming off of a GAC cham-

pionship in cross country, head coach Steve Guymon leads this team along with those that helped bring home the GAC gold.

Saturday, they competed again in Pittsburg, Kansas and will finish off their season in the same place as they head back to Pittsburg on Feb.10 for the Gorilla Classic.

Recent OBU graduate Santiago Kearney attempts a shot in the team’s match versus Delta State last season. Ranked number 14 in Division II, the team hopes to repeat its success with the spring opener this weekend. (photo by Abby Blankenship)