Volume 137 No. 19

The Springfield Student

BREAKERS

Springfield College track and field athletes Joe Wong and Jillian Scott each recently broke school marks in their respective events.

See page 14

(Photos Courtesy of Springfield

Vaccine mandate lifted

Earlier this month, Springfield College announced that it is no longer requiring its students, faculty or staff to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

___ By Nick PaNtages ___ @nick_pantages22

In an email to all students and staff on Feb. 16, Springfield College announced that the mandatory requirement for the COVID vaccine has been lifted. The new policy will become effective May 15, following the Undergraduate Commencement ceremony.

Health Center director Kathleen Hogan-Soltys said this decision was due to various factors based on what the CDC and American College Health Association have recommended.

“[The CDC and ACHA] have found that the majority of people aged 18 to 25, when they get COVID, it is typically a mild illness… there is no mortality or even morbidity associated with it,” Hogan Soltys said.

Springfield has mainly followed the recommendations by the CDC and ACHA to guide them through this process, although Hogan-Soltys has said they are behind the

curve.

“A lot of colleges and universities actually lifted [the mandate] for this past fall semester, but we wanted to be a little more safe.,” she said.

These two main factors led the school to be comfortable with the decision. However, the Health Center does not foresee much change in the number of students vaccinated.

“Many potential incoming or transfer students have already received the vaccine, and although it is not mandated, we are still highly recommending it,” Hogan-Soltys said.

Although prospective students will not require it, past schooling or work experience may have caused them to receive the vaccine, which is why Hogan-Soltys believes that the number of students that are vaccinated will not change.

“A high percentage of our campus chooses to electively get [the vaccine], and

then also with natural inheritance and herd immunity.”

As for the older staff and faculty that work here, they are still highly recommended to stay updated on their vaccination and booster shots.

Hogan-Soltys said, “People that have higher risk are still encouraged to stay up to date on their vaccine.”

As of now, Hogan-Soltys says that it is impossible to predict whether the vaccine mandate could ever return. Due to the fact that COVID is a constantly evolving virus, and with every new variant, limiting the spread is almost useless. “COVID is just something that we have to live with now,” she said.

The main concern

for the staff of the Health Center is the safety of the students on campus, as it always is.

“The decision was based on what they know now,” Hogan-Soltys said. “That is that younger people under 50 do not get COVID as a severe disease, and more of a common cold or a case of the flu.”

The Towne Health Center staff. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College)

Back on Broadway

As part of its spring show, the Best of Broadway club is set to perform “Beauty and the Beast” this weekend in Fuller Arts Center.

___ By RiveR Mitchell @rivermitchell27

On Thursday evening at 7 p.m., the Best of Broadway club kicks off their spring semester performance in the Fuller Arts Center with the production of “Beauty and the Beast.”

Best of Broadway, which is a student run musical theater club on campus, puts together a show each semester. The fall show, which is a “Broadway Review,” is a combination of 21 different numbers from different shows and musicals, with some of the numbers from last semester coming from “Hairspray,” “Newsies,” “The Greatest Showman” and more.

The spring show however, is one full musical from top to bottom. With the club performing “Grease” for their spring show in 2022, co-directors Hannah McGee and Alicia Patenaude decided to go with “Beauty in the Beast” due to a variety of reasons.

“It’s such a big cast,” McGee said. “There’s so many characters, so everyone kind of gets an opportunity to shine on stage. It’s also something that everyone knows. It’s family-friendly, it’s always fun and it’s pretty magical.”

For Patenaude, her road to becoming the co-director was a very linear path – as she realized she wanted to direct after spending more time in the club.

“I’ve been doing BOB since my freshman year, and I knew

at the beginning of my junior year that I wanted to direct for my senior year,” Patenaude said. “I was the president for two years before this, so I just felt like I was prepared for this kind of position.”

McGee however, who is also the co-president of BOB, had a different road to the co-director spot, as the other co-director wasn’t able to return. A huge part of McGee stepping into this role was to help out her sister.

“I honestly just did

it,” McGee said. “I don’t think I would have if it wasn’t for Alicia.”

Overall, both McGee and Patenaude feel very prepared going into the first show on Thursday, as they have both loved seeing everything come together.

“I feel pretty good,“ McGee said. “We have a set that I feel like we’ve never had before … it’s pretty magical, honestly, to watch it all come together.”

“Especially considering we’ve only had about a month to put

this show together, I feel like everyone’s pretty proud of themselves, or they should be proud of themselves, for how much hard work people have put in. We’re definitely ready.”

If you want to watch Best of Broadway perform “Beauty and the Beast,” shows will be taking place in the Fuller Arts Center on Thursday and Friday at 7 p.m., and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

The Best of Broadway show takes place from March 2-4. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College)

‘The Disney World of colleges’

Deja Ware (‘19), Springfield College’s director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, is using the leadership skills she acquired during her time on Alden Street to spread support and love to everyone.

Deja Ware, a member of the Springfield College graduating class of 2019 and now the campus’ director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, has made quite the mark on Alden Street over the years.

However, Ware’s path to – and accomplishments at –Springfield College are as unique as they are impressive.

Ware was the first person to receive the William Beckett scholarship (Beckett was the first African-American to graduate from Springfield College), and she arrived at Springfield College feeling proud as a result.

“That was a great accomplishment, for me, to be selected,” Ware said. “My

first encounter with [this] institution was President Cooper welcoming me at my high school and presenting me with my scholarship certificate.”

A first-generation college student, Ware entered college life with an open mind and a desire to leave no stone unturned.

“I did not know much about what to expect, I just knew that I was eager and excited,” Ware said.

Ware channeled that ambition and joined a wide variety of organizations on campus.

“You could probably ask anyone who’s still here at Springfield, during my time [here as a student] I was excited to jump into every club,” Ware said.

She was involved with student government at Springfield College, and was a leader for both New Student Orientation and June Orientation. Furthermore, Ware had a keen interest in working with people who came from a variety of different situations.

“I was really big on advocating for inclusion, students with varying abilities, racial identities, sexual orientations,” Ware said. “[Helping people in that realm] was what I wanted to do.”

Channeling this fascination with assisting those who may benefit from it more than others, Ware was dead set on being a teacher at the outset of her time at Springfield

College.

“I had just left from a local high school [in Springfield] having [had] a great experience with one of my teachers, and I knew that was going to be my path,” Ware said. However, a couple of years later, Ware would experience a change of heart. By the end of her ju-

nior year, she didn’t want to be a teacher anymore, but she was still interested in working in higher education. Upon graduating from Springfield College, Ware worked at Holyoke High School, then went to American International College and contributed to their admissions

Ware graduated from Springfield College in 2019. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College)

__ By Tucker PaqueTTe @tpaquette17

department for three-and-a-half years.

Ware’s final title at American International College was Assistant Director for Undergraduate Admissions, before she returned to Springfield College, where she now serves as the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

“The decision to come back [to work] at Springfield College was [made] effortless because as a student, the amount of support I received from faculty, staff and my peers was unmatched from anything that I’d experienced before,” Ware said. “I don’t think there was ever a time that someone wasn’t cheering for me and rooting me on to do better,. Upon [my] return,

there has been no change [in that regard].”

An important part of Ware’s job at Springfield College is to come up with programs for the campus community on topics like activism and social justice, as well as to give people the chance to learn about how to better advocate for others.

“We’ll try to [continue] to uplift and bring awareness to traditionally marginalized groups, and also to create a safe and comfortable environment in our office space (which is in the Campus Union),” Ware said.

“My job is to show up and support [the students and campus leaders who are doing this work].”

always spoke glowingly of the atmosphere at the institution.

“If anyone asked me [at my previous job], I’d refer to Springfield College as the Disney World of colleges,” Ware said. “It is the happiest place that [someone] could ever go as far as colleges

Ultimately, Ware cherishes the memories she has made thus far on Alden Street, and hopes to help others make some of their own.

“The amount of support and love [people] receive is so genuine, it can never be recreated,” Ware said. “It

is something people have to experience for themselves in order to know, [and] if students have an opportunity to experience that and I can be a part of helping to create that environment, then I want to do that.”

Even when she was not at Springfield College, Ware Ware is the Director of

the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. (Luke Whitehouse/The Student)

We’ll try to [continue] to uplift and bring awareness to traditionally marginalized groups, and also to create a safe and comfortable environment.

- Deja Ware -

[are concerned].”

(Photo Courtesy of Springfield College)

Meet the Student Trustee-elect Candidates

The Student Trustee is a time-honored tradition at Springfield College. The Student Trustee is a voting member of the Board of Trustees, which is the primary governing body of the College and is responsible for major decisions on campus.

The Springfield Student asked Student Trustee candidates to provide statements and answer the following questions about their qualifications to become the next Student Trustee-elect.

1. What makes Springfield College so special to you?

2. Why are you deserving of becoming a Student Trustee?

Hannah Gilooly

1. College was never something that I saw myself going to. I have always wanted to be a teacher, but being away from home was terrifying to me. I was applying during the pandemic, so I was touring campuses myself. The second I walked around Springfield College, I knew it was the place for me. I wasn’t able to let my shoulders down at any other place. The intentions of spirit, mind, body and Humanics hit very close to home for me and that kickstarted my love. Seeing smiling faces,

friendships, and having the opportunity to have a voice was really intriguing. There is a spot for many kinds of people to feel welcomed and heard, which I think is cool.

2. I will soon have two years under my belt here at Springfield College. I have loved this campus from the start, but as highly as I think of it, there are some adjustments I would like to speak on. I also was never offered a position like this before, so to even have the opportunity to apply was really amazing. I have participated in a lot of leadership positions and clubs on campus, so I am getting a good grasp of the Springfield College community. I know I can be good at this, if given the chance. I am passionate, fiery, a good listener, and considerate. I cannot wait to see what else Springfield College has in store for me!

Jasmyn Roark-Somersall

1. Springfield College is special to me because it feels like my home away from home. I feel comfortable on campus and I love meeting new people here while also making connections. Before coming to college, I had never lived away from home for a long period of time. However, Springfield College welcomed me with open arms! The friends I have made here will last a lifetime and my time here will always be valued.

2. I am deserving of becoming a Student Trustee because I have a different point of view on topics that might be talked about in future meetings. I also want to help give people on campus who may not have a voice that’s well-heard feel like they do have a voice. I want to try to help and support the campus community as much as I can!

1. Springfield College has given me my second home. I love the people, the vibe and my life here. I want to help make a difference and do my part in making it a better place, so it continues to attract the kind of students we want. I love the way it is now, how I was able to come here and learn to call it home within my first semester, and I want to contribute to providing that feeling to more firstyear students to come.

2. I am deserving of becoming a student trustee because I have what it takes to be a leader. I see myself making a difference at Springfield College through my relentlessness, determination, perseverance, hard work and grit; these are a few ways to describe my tenacity. If I get this role, it would help me achieve this goal. I’m also a good communicator and an honest person.

Carter Cochardo

1. Springfield College is not a college or an institution. It’s a community, it’s a home. This place gives me a feeling of comfortability, specifically being comfortable with being my true self. I don’t have to pretend to be someone else or pretend to act differently around people because Springfield College promotes being your true authentic self. The organizations, events and clubs this campus has to offer give students a safe environment to grow and learn to be better people, stronger leaders, and build confidence within ourselves. Springfield College is so special to me because of the space it provides to its students. I am so happy to call this place home.

2. I feel I am deserving of becoming a Student Trustee because everything I take a stab at, I give it my all and with good intention. I take every opportunity to better myself and others in the positions I have been honored to receive. During my experience as a Pre-Camp leader, attending Leadership Training Conference, fulfilling a spot as E-Board for Student Athlete Leadership Team, and en route to becoming Pride Cares certified, I have tried my hardest not to waste an opportunity. I make sure

Brooke Beneway

Nine students have applied to become the next Springfield College Student Trustee-elect. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College)

___ By Braedan Shea @braedan_shea

that these positions and events don’t go to waste, that I get everything I can out of them while also putting others first. These positions allow me to be a leader, so as much as I try to learn from these spots, I also make sure to give everything I can back to the people. I try to create safe spaces for all, keep everybody in line, make sure they feel comfortable where they are and be someone they can look up to. Creating strong and healthy relationships to build our community on this campus is something I strive for, and these leadership positions have given me the opportunities to do so. I feel deserving of the Student Trustee position because I make sure to put the campus community first, and will give my all in doing so.

Hrishikesh Lamichhane

1. When I got my acceptance letter from Springfield College, I remember talking to a few students about their experiences, and most said, “Springfield College feels like a home away from home.” As a high school graduate, I had yet to learn how I could find a home 7,776 miles away in a different country with different people and cultures. Alden Street is where my creativity has bloomed. I started by joining the Student Honors Council, where I met like-minded students who are now my friends. I joined the YMCA club and did my first community service. A passionate writer, I joined the Alden Street Review editorial panel and explored my literary interests. As a student advocate, I advocate for peers’ wellness and health promotion.

As a residential assistant, I ensure students a safe and fun on-campus living experience. From working at the Wellness Center to working at a health association as a service counselor, Springfield College has been the foundation of my academic pursuits, community service, leadership, and passion.

The team of excellent students, faculty and staff, and the campus resources energize me daily to wake up and do great work. Springfield College is special to me because I have not only dreamt of my personal and professional growth here, but I have been experiencing the growth already. It is so special because it has allowed me to wear 10 different hats besides the student hat without questioning my individuality and intersectionality. That is where I am the most expressive and unique.

2. My passion for public health and public policy and my experiences of submerging into communities, finding a health problem, analyzing it, and designing an intervention have helped me gain insight into problem-solving. Being a Student Trustee is all about representing students and their problems. Our commonality is “students,” and this umbrella term has a wide range of students who attend Springfield College – branching out into online and traditional programs, athletes and non-athletes, American and international, numerous programs and majors, different races, classes, sexuality and gender. We all have different roots, beliefs and values but have one common primary goal – attaining education at Springfield College. With that in mind, it is

crucial to note that an educational institution is evolving. What helps it grow is student perspectives. What I bring to the table differs from what you get. What you want to express should be heard. A non-biased representation where every voice matters. With the network and relationships I have built on campus, I will be able to hear your stories, concerns, and opinions and listen to them compassionately and without judgment. I will imply my organizational and analytical skills in discussing the students’ problems at the policy-making level. My experiences with public health interventions, similar to disseminating the outcome among students and disintegrating the solution on a large scale among students, will allow me to add value as a student trustee. My intersectionalities as a racial and sexual minority, my unique experiences, and passion for policy-making and intervening make me deserving of this leadership position.

Kushal Bhandari

1. Springfield College has become a new way of living for me. The fresh air of Alden Street revives my energy and reminds me of boundless opportunities I could use to thrive in my academic and personal life. I cherish the unique sense of belonging I feel at Springfield College, as this institution has not only given me a place to learn, but a community to call home.

2. I believe I would make an excellent Student Trustee because I have demonstrated a strong commitment to advocating for a diverse, inclusive, and equitable learning environment on campus.

Through my past work, I have honed my skills in promoting these essential values, and I am eager to continue building upon them in this role. Furthermore, I possess the leadership qualities necessary for success as a Student Trustee, as I am deeply committed to amplifying the voices of those students whose problems may otherwise go unnoticed or unheard.

Kevin

Rosado

1. What makes Springfield College special is the sense of community and inclusivity that I feel here. I immediately felt part of a family from my first day on campus. The small class sizes and supportive professors have helped me feel at home and encouraged me to succeed academically and personally.

Another thing that makes Springfield College special is the emphasis on student voice. The administration and faculty genuinely care about what the students think and actively seek our input on important issues. I feel like I have a say in shaping the college’s culture and policies, which makes me feel valued and respected.

Lastly, the College’s mission of educating the whole person in spirit, mind, and body for leadership in service to others resonates with me. I appreciate that the College doesn’t just focus on academics, but also encourages us to develop our physical and spiritual well-being. The emphasis on leadership and service to others aligns with my personal values and has motivated me to get involved in various community service activities.

Overall, Springfield College is a special place because of its supportive

community, emphasis on student voice, and mission of educating the whole person for leadership and service to others.

2. As a college student who is deeply committed to the success of my fellow students and the institution as a whole, I believe that I am deserving of becoming a Student Trustee. I have demonstrated a track record of responsible decision-making and leadership throughout my time at this institution. As a member of several student organizations, I have gained valuable experience working collaboratively toward a common goal. In addition, I have excellent communication skills, and I am able to effectively articulate the interests and concerns of the student body. I have always been approachable and willing to listen to the perspectives of others, which has allowed me to develop a nuanced understanding of the challenges facing our institution. Furthermore, I have a deep commitment to the mission of this institution, and I am passionate about ensuring that it continues to thrive for generations to come. I believe that my dedication to the values and goals of the institution, coupled with my leadership experience and communication skills, make me an ideal candidate for the Student Trustee position.

If given the opportunity to serve in this role, I would work tirelessly to represent my fellow students’ interests, ensure their voices are heard, and help steer the institution toward a future of continued excellence.

Two Student-Elect Candidates, Samantha Van Horn and Neilee Hess, had not replied by deadline.

MacKenzie MacLeod

The Springfield Student Women’s Athlete of the Week for this edition went to MacKenzie MacLeod with 43.1 percent of the vote. The graduate gymnast led Springfield in its best event with a 9.775 score in the floor routine in the Pride’s meet against Centenary on Sunday.

Jade O’Connor was the runner-up in the poll with 23.5 percent of the vote. The graduate midfielder for the women’s lacrosse team scored four goals in Springfield’s game against Roger Williams on Wednesday.

Christa Carr received the third-most votes after notching 19.6 percent in the poll. The senior thrower for the women’s track and field team set a

Jacob Deguire

The winner of this edition’s Springfield Student Men’s Athlete of the Week was Jacob Deguire with 40% of the vote. The sophomore wrestler became the first Springfield wrestler to win a regional title since 2016 at the Division III Northeast Regional Championships. Three of his four wins at the event were via pin.

Joe Wong was a close runner-up in the poll, receiving 34.6 percent of the vote. The sophomore mid-distance runner for the men’s track and field team set a school record and was crowned the New England Division III champion in 600-meter with a time of 1:20.80 at the New England Division III Indoor Track & Field Championships.

The third vote-getter was Chase Par-

rott with 16.4 percent of the vote. The senior wrestler earned his way to nationals after he finished second in the 149-pound weight class at the Division III Northeast Regional Championships. Jamie Cocca rounded out the vote after putting together solid performances in field events. The senior thrower for the men’s track and field team finished in sixth in both the weighted throw and shot put, and was within four centimeters of his personal best in the weighted throw at the New England Division III Indoor Track & Field Championships.

personal best in the weighted throw with a distance of 15.51 meters to finish sixth, and finished sixth in the shot put with a distance of 11.62 meters at the New England Division III Indoor Track & Field Championships.

Rounding out the vote was Kristina Kyle after an amazing race. The first-year mid-distance runner for the women’s track and field team set a personal best in the mile with a time of 5:12.61 to finish in the top 10 at the New England Division III Indoor Track & Field Championships.

Jacob Deguire. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College Athletics)

MacKenzie MacLeod. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College Athletics)

Marching into Women’s History Month

Campus clubs will put on a variety of events - including the second annual Women’s March and the eighth annual Women’s Tea - over the next 30 days.

International Women’s Day, WOP – along with the DEI Office – will host its eighth annual Women’s Tea event.

wide movement, which has been led mainly by women, just like the early suffragettes.

Women’s History Month – which was first implemented in 1980 by President Jimmy Carter – is celebrated throughout March. The intentions behind this were to celebrate and acknowledge the impact women have made on society. At a historic time in American society, when women’s rights are under attack, commemorating and appreciating women

___ By Carley Crain @carley_crain12

has never been more critical.

At Springfield College, the Women of Power club (WOP) is hosting a series of events during March to honor women. On Monday, March 6, the club will hold its second annual Women’s March. The march will be similar to last year’s, which featured numerous speakers and members of the campus community

coming together and holding up homemade posters. Club members and anyone else who is interested are encouraged to create their own posters with messages that are meaningful to them.

Some powerful posters made last year included quotes like “My uterus, my rules,” “Gender bias has got to go!” and “Women’s history is your history!”

Two days later, on

It’s no coincidence that the Women’s Tea is held on International Women’s Day (IWD) – a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Inspired by the women’s suffrage movement that started in New Zealand and continued in labor movements in North America and Europe. The earliest version of IWD was believed to be organized by the Socialist Party of America in New York City in 1909. Since then, March 8 has been recognized as International Women’s Day.

The theme for this year’s Women’s Tea is “Strength in Sisterhood,” which encompasses the importance of community during a time when women’s rights have been targeted like never before. Specifically, the main focus of feminists recently has been protecting bodily autonomy. The overturning of Roe vs. Wade sparked a nation-

The fight against the patriarchy carries on. and instead has evolved into advocating for different issues, like abortion.

WOP is having a second event on March 6 as well, a women’s forum, and will be co-hosting it with Student Society for Bridging Diversity and Men of Excellence. The forum will be held in Dodge A & B at 6 p.m., and “is tailored to women but is open to all genders,” explained WOP board member Devon Rosier in a clubwide email. WOP is also collecting sanitary products throughout March, which is a drive they have been doing for the past few years.

Women’s History Month doesn’t just celebrate people who are women, it also includes non-binary individuals, transgender people, and everyone with a uterus. Inclusivity when it comes to Women’s History Month has been at the forefront of this year’s celebrations, especially at Springfield College.

President Mary-Beth Cooper and many students participated on last year’s Women Of Power march. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College)

__ By Chris Gionta __ @Chris_Gionta

The 2022 Spring field College baseball season marked the end of a long and signif icant era for the pro gram. Noah Bleakley, Jack Cooney and Jack Simonetty concluded their collegiate careers ﹣ all of which were after five years with the team.

Star players having to leave is a regular part of college sports, and the Pride know they have to grow from within to fill those empty spaces.

“It starts with who’s coming back,” said catcher and captain Cadin Maynard. “We have guys that sort of had a sample size last year that contributed well when they did, and they’re also going to have bigger roles this year.”

What the 2023 squad brings is a large senior class of 15 players, with 13 hav ing been at Springfield their entire collegiate

A new era

career.

“We’ve all grown up together,” said pitcher and captain Michael White. “We’ve all kind of learned under the same juniors and

seniors ever since we came here as fresh men.”

The Pride are com ing off a 19 20 overall season. However, they performed better in

the most important games ﹣ featuring an

11 6 conference record.

For 2023, the NEW MAC coaches poll places Springfield in the middle of the pack

at No. 5.

In 2022, the Pride’s offense proved to be a major strength, and it will likely remain that way. Despite Bleakley, Cooney, and Simonetty all leaving after hitting over .300 and slugging over .500 last year, much of the lineup’s firepower stays.

Maynard was third in hits for Springfield behind Bleakley and Simonetty, and was also tied for third in doubles. Out of nine players on the Pride to have 100 or more plate appearances last year, Maynard’s .360 batting average and .444 on base percentage led the team.

He worked in tan dem to alternate as a catcher and designated hitter with Ryan Sorgi, who is in his junior year. Sorgi hit .359 and slugged .556 in 137 plate appearances in 2022. He was top two on the Pride in walks (15), RBI (32), and was tied for the team lead in doubles with 10. He also serves as an im portant factor on the

After three key departures, the Springfield baseball team takes on another identity for the 2023 season with a class of 15 seniors and a talented group of first-years.

Cadin Maynard at the plate. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College Athletics)

defensive front, as his elite arm from behind the plate makes it difficult for opponents to steal bases off him.

Joe Traversa, Michael Barrett, Noah Diamond and Andrew McCarty are all returning players who made consistent contributions to Springfield in its last campaign.

Traversa was a very hard out to get in 2022, as the infielder put together a .463 on-base percentage in 95 plate appearances.

Barrett and McCarty were also great at reaching with .380 and .364 on-base percentages respectively.

McCarty led the team in walks (18), while

Barrett and Traversa tied for first in stolen bases with seven each. Diamond consistently came through with runners in scoring position - driving in the fifth-most runs for Springfield (26).

The Pride will also see higher volume from some of their role players from 2022.

“Luke DiMaurolast year, every time he got in, he played well,” Barrett said. “He’s gonna be a really big impact for our team this year… he’s pretty versatile in the outfield - he can play left, center, or right.”

Fellow sophomore Cole Zalegowski is also a candidate to get

more at-bats after he hit .417 with a .512 on-base percentage in 43 plate appearances. The versatile infielder also walked more times than he struck out.

Springfield’s pitching staff has a lot of young arms being led by White along with seniors Blake Roberge and Jack DeGirolamo. Roberge had the most starts and strikeouts for the Pride, and also provided two complete games.

DeGirolamo was Springfield’s most reliable reliever in 2022,

as in 27.1 innings he had the lowest ERA of anyone to pitch more than two frames for Springfield last year.

Some of the Pride’s biggest potential contributors from the mound are pitchers that have yet to throw a college inning.

“We’ve got two impact freshmen that come to mind - one was actually just named our fifth starter - Ryan Baker,” White said. “He threw four shutout innings [in our scrimmage] against Elms.”

White additionally mentioned first-year

left-handed pitcher/ outfielder Nathan Kelleher-Mochak as an arm to look out for this spring.

“He’s been electric this preseason, so I’m looking forward to seeing him shove,” White said.

Springfield brings a mix of experience and young talent that should make noise once again in the NEWMAC. The Pride are scheduled to begin their season with a doubleheader against Western New England on March 4 at 12 p.m.

Michael White after a pitch. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College Athletics)

Ryan Sorgi at the plate. (Photo courtesy of Springfield College Athletics)

‘We’ve been locked in’

its 2614 campaign, and aims to go further in the postseason this year.

__ By Luke Whitehouse __ @Lwhitehouse12

The Springfield College softball team started last season 255, setting the school record for most wins in the first 30 games.

But the Pride lost their last nine games of the season, and finished 26-14.

This year though, Team 60 will be taking a different approach.

The team has been working with a sports psychologist, working on mindset, and honing on the motto of “one game at a time.” This, of course, is all in preparation to begin and finish the 2023 campaign strong.

“I think (the sports psychologist) helped us a lot,” senior captain Margaret Britt said. “Most sports are more

of a mental game and for years that’s been overlooked. It’s been really helpful to get us out of our heads, realize we’ve been playing softball our whole lives, and that we’re capable of going far. ”

Head coach Kate Bowen is thrilled at the way the offseason has gone so far.

“It’s just such a great group,” Bowen said. “What I’m most excited about is (the fact that) since day one of preseason, we’ve been locked in.”

With the cold, unpredictable weather of the northeast, the Pride usually spend the majority of the preseason practicing in the fieldhouse and in the Annex, where they can take

batting practice. Unlike most years though, the team has been able to practice primarily outside on Potter Field, with the occasional batting practice inside.

Springfield suffers the loss of key contributors Sam Witmer and Ava Fernandez, but the Pride will be welcoming back graduate students Kristen Acocella, Gillian Kane, All-American senior Mackenzie Doyle, as well as their four captains: senior Dana Sericchio, junior Callie Gendron, junior Alli Olsen and Britt.

Kane is hoping to continue her success from the 2022 season as she dominated on the mound, earning 14 wins

on the mound, while having a 2.02 ERA.

Doyle, (.485 AVG), Gendron (.347 AVG, two home runs) , and Acocella (nine doubles, two home runs) will look to anchor the offense building off last year’s achievements, as the trio were big components at the plate last season.

“We have a lot of young and returning talent,” Sericchio said. “We’re just so excited to get started.”

The Pride will start their season this weekend as they host Worcester St. for a doubleheader on Saturday, March 8. After that, they will have eight days off, and then head

to Florida to begin their annual spring games, beginning on March 12. They will face teams from all over the country, playing a staggering 10 games in five days – including five doubleheaders. For many teams, this could be an exhausting trip. But, even with that amount of games in a short period of time, Bowen knows her team will be ready to go.

“It’s a really great atmosphere down there,” Bowen said. “It’s the start to our season, so sometimes I don’t even have to prepare because we’re just so excited to start playing.”

The Springfield softball team is building off

The Pride huddling. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College Athletics)

Pool prowess

__ By Patrick Fergus __ @Fergus5Fergus

Numerous swimming records were smashed during the NEWMAC Championships for both the men’s and women’s teams.

Some of the oldest relay records were broken in the women’s tournament, with the 200 medley relay and 200 free relay falling on consecutive days.

The 200 free relay team of Mikaili Charlemagne, Natalie Chamberlain, Erin Kelaher, and Kay Shen finished as the

conference runner-up in the event, with a final time of 1:34.87, besting the record of 1:35.10 that had stood since 2011.

The Pride also broke the oldest relay record standing in program history in the 200 medley relay race. The team consisted of Carolyn Blenk and sophomore swimmer Nina Lamb, and two swimmers from the 200 free relay in Charlemagne and Shen.

“I was extremely

grateful knowing that we broke the record, and it was an encouraging moment for our whole team.” Shen said. “It was a great collective effort, and created an incentive for us to do even better in the next race.”

Overall, the women’s team finished with a comfortable third-place finish, almost a 200-point buffer over fourth-place finishers Coast Guard. MIT racked up a total of 1,441 total points en route to its 12th

straight title.

“We all trained so hard over the season, and it being the first normal season in a couple of years, and new assistant coaches, we all believed we could do great things.” Shen said.

Head swimming coach John Taffe was extremely impressed with the women’s team.

“The women had one of the best championships as a team in recent history, and they were one of the most cohesive, determined, focused teams I have worked with in all my years.” Taffe said.

The men continued the practice of shattering records.

The Chan brothers put on a historic showing in the 100 butterfly, as Jonathan Chan posted an impressive 50.02, while older brother James took second place with a record setting time of 49.29.

“I was calm, I had gone through the race so many times in my head and I knew I would get it.” James said.

For James, a senior, it was a typical mixture of excitement and nervousness going to his final NEWMAC tournament. Despite being in such great shape for the weekend, James was dealing with groin and back injuries.

“I couldn’t stand up after the 200 [butterfly], my back was hurting so bad and I basically had to crawl out of the pool.”

James said. “There was a lot of pride in it for me, handling adverse situations like injuries and still accomplishing some of my goals. I had no regrets and nothing left in the tank.”

Senior Owen Olden-

burg also etched his name to the record books with the fastest backstroke in the history of the program with a 51.04, which bested James Chan’s mark that was set earlier this year. Oldenburg’s time was good enough for sixth place in the finals.

“What impresses me the most about these swimmers is their work ethic, and they had such great careers here and saved their best for last.” Taffe said.

Taffe and his coaching staff were recently honored as the NEWMAC Women’s Coaching Staff of the Year, receiving the notable esteem for the ninth time in his 34 years at Springfield.

“I can’t say enough good things about my assistant coaches Howard Hinds and Grace Carlson, two of the best coaches I have worked with and they deserve a ton of credit for the team’s performance,” Taffe said.

The men crushed two medley relay races, as they established new school records in the 400 and 200, respectively. The team consisted of the Chan brothers, along with Daniel Forthsythe, Luke Zonghetti, and Jordan McMillan.

Despite all the broken records, Springfield took fifth place in the tournament, just 30 points shy of WPI for a top four placement. MIT took home its 14th consecutive title, with a total of 1439.5 points.

Both the men’s and women’s team had strong performances at the NEWMACs, and wrapped up the season with their names decorating the record book.

The women’s 200 medley relay, men’s 100 butterfly, men’s 100 backstroke and men’s 200 medley relay records were all broken at the NEWMAC Championships.

Four swimming records were broken at the NEWMAC Championships. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College Athletics)

Practices were treacherous, and the season was long – however, the blood, sweat and tears poured in by each athlete made for an unforgettable 202223 indoor track and field season. An electric atmosphere at meets

Sprint to the finish

from Northeastern University, the long and triple jumper was a new addition to the Pride. However, the transition was easy due to the team’s maturity and culture.

“There was just an instant group of friends, which helped a lot,” Paul said. “The coaches were also very receptive to caring about the team not only as athletes but also as people. They understood that we are students first, and that is not something that you get everywhere.”

in the Triangle Classic on Feb. 18.

“When I took that jump, I had no idea I was going to break a record,” Scott said. “All of a sudden, all of my teammates jumped on top of me on the mat, telling me I just broke the record.”

The previous pole vault record was 10 ‘11.75” and had been in place since 2016. Scott cleared 11 ‘3.75” – shattering the previous record.

propelled multiple new records and laid the foundation for runners, jumpers, throwers and vaulters to see much success.

The Springfield College track and field athletes put forth remarkable seasons that

will help launch the program into even more success in the years to come.

“Our support system has played a large part in the success we have seen this year,” sophomore Sam Paul said.

As a transfer student

Before the indoor season ramped up, the Pride were preparing during intersession. While most students and athletes enjoy winter break, the track and field team returns a week early. Throughout the week, they do various activities that involve team bonding, activities and building chemistry.

The morale of the Pride peaked when sophomore pole vaulter Jillian Scott launched herself to new heights

“At first, I was like, ‘No, that is not the record; that is only a little higher than what I just jumped.’ When I realized it was, I thought, ‘Oh, that is crazy,’” Scott said.

Although Scott broke her high school’s record, she never would have imagined breaking a college record. She briefly heard about the previous record and maybe thought it would be within reach as a senior; but never as a sophomore.

“My younger self would probably be lit-

The Springfield track and field team has broken multiple records this season, and senior jumper Matlyn Gross has punched her ticket to nationals.

___ By Sean Savage @SeanSav13

Stephanie Brown at the Springfield College season opener. (Photo Courtesy of Springfield College Athletics)

erally so excited,” Scott said.

That meet also featured six other personal records, but this was not the first time Springfield athletes saw success.

Their first meet of the season was an early glimpse of what would lie ahead. The Pride had six total New England Division III qualifications: in the long jump, senior Colby Wilson jumped 6.79 meters, and senior Matlyn Gross jumped 5.16 meters. Gross later broke a personal record by a substantial 40 centimeters, which boosted her to a No. 3 national ranking at the time. Paul also jumped 11.05 meters and Gross again with 10.78 in triple jump.

In the 60-meter spring, sophomore Evan Weber finished in 6.93 seconds, and junior Anthony Penta crossed the line in 7.08.

“When everybody is succeeding and seeing the payoff from the work they put in is so exciting,” Paul said. “We are always uplifting and pushing each other to do our best.”

Scott added: “Everyone is rooting for everyone’s best. We have a very supportive team, and everyone is looking out for you. Whether you are close with them or not, I could go to people in other event

groups, and they would still cheer me on and give me hugs.”

More recently, there was another reason for the Pride to celebrate. Sophomore Joe Wong joined the books as a record-holder in the 600-meter with a time of 120.80 in the Division III New England Championships on Feb. 25.

Wong tried to set a new record not once, twice, but three times –and the third time was the charm.

“When I first crossed that line, I wished there was a photographer there. I was starstruck,” Wong said. “I was in awe like that just happened.”

Coupled with this, Wong also won the race, and it was a moment of everything coming together. Since the summer, Wong has been working toward his goal.

“I worked on building high volume and mileage, and then I turned my focus to a lot more speed work,” Wong said.

Before his name was called for the event, Wong unleashed a tunnel vision-like focus.

“I was just listening to Pop Smoke, like that is my man. I was just blasting that in my ears and visualizing how each lap would feel,” Wong said.

Wong broke the record on what he considered “the second biggest stage” regionals. He sees this as a stepping stone to take his talents to nationals next year. Along with Wong, 11 other athletes qualified for regionals.

As of now, Gross is the lone athlete heading to nationals, but others will try to join her in the upcoming meet on March 4 – the Tufts Na-

tional Qualifying Meet

– which is seen as a last opportunity to qualify.

Another testament to the Pride’s success is 2018 alum Jack Pinho breaking a four-minute mile.

“Only four other Division III coaches have ever coached an athlete [who ran] under four, and one of them is at Springfield. [Assistant Track and Field coach Anna Steinman] knows

what she is doing,” Wong said.

As the season comes to a close, Paul reflected on her first year with the Pride.

“The team is just really funny,” Paul said. “I feel like for a lot of sports, you see practices as kind of like a chore. However, here, I am actually excited to go see my coaches and teammates and spend time with them.”

Jillian Scott next to the pole vault record she broke. (Photo courtesy of Springfield Track and Field Instagram)

Sports

Back on the Diamond

The Springfield baseball and softball teams are set to start their seasons, and both have a good mix of experience and young talent.

[See page 10]

(Photo Courtesy of Springfield College Athletics)