Gold Rush - June 2019

JOHN CURRIE HITS THE GROUND RUNNING

Men’s tennis, women’s golf and men’s golf were all right there at the end in the NCAA Championships

JUNE 2019

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VOL. 29 // ISSUE 8 (USPS 014-373) EDITOR

Jim Buice PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brian Westerholt, WFU Athletics and others as noted WRITERS

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CONTENTS

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Gold Rush is published eight times a year in August, October, November, December, February, March, May and June

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// J U N E 2 0 1 9

ACC PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Wake Forest’s Bobby Seymour, who led the nation with 92 RBIs as the NCAA Tournament started, was named the ACC Player of the Year in 2019. Seymour, who led the ACC with a .377 batting average and 89 hits to go along with 20 doubles and nine home runs, was also selected as a first team All-America first baseman by Collegiate Baseball.

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// 6 BACK HOME New Director of Athletics John Currie is ready to take on the biggest challenge of his career “to follow a legend like Ron (Wellman) and to fulfill the hopes and aspirations of my fellow alumni.”

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ON THE COVER Men’s tennis, women’s golf and men’s golf all made strong runs at national titles this spring in NCAA team competition. Pictured are Bar Botzer (tennis), Siyun Liu (women's golf) and Eugenio Chacarra (men's golf)

// 12 SUCCESSFUL SPRING Wake Forest enjoyed a special spring as men’s tennis and women’s golf made it to the finals in the NCAA Championship competition while men’s golf advanced to the quarterfinals in match play.

// 18 WORKING HIS WAY UP Tight end Jack Freudenthal has emerged as one of the team captains for the football team after going from walk-on to scholarship player to starter.

JUNE 2019

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FROM THE A.D.

// J O H N C U R R I E

First month has been a blast

JOHN CURRIE DIRECTOR O F AT H L E T I C S

Greetings from the most beautiful campus in America!

It was awesome to see 89 Demon Deacon studentathletes graduate on May 20 and Wake Forest spring teams sprinting to the finish line with tremendous results concluding with Danielle Konopelski and Sam Halvorsen representing the Deacs in the NCAA Track & Field Championships in Austin.

My first month as your athletics director was a blast! Personally traveling to see men’s tennis and women’s golf battle to win their national semifinal matches and compete to the very end in the

Proud Supporter Morgan Stanley is proud to support Wake Forest University Athletics.

Christopher Leak Family Wealth Director Vice President Financial Advisor 100 N. Main Street/Suite 2500 Winston-Salem, NC 27101 +1 336 721-9203 chris.leak@morganstanley.com https://fa.morganstanley.com/theyatesleakgroup/index.htm 1252924

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NCAA championships was an incredible experience. It’s also been fun to get on the road and meet with fans and supporters across North Carolina, as well as in Florida, Arkansas and New York. I sincerely appreciate the warm welcome I have received from our fans.

Demon Deacon student-athletes and teams have again made us all proud with terrific athletic and academic performances this past year. On May 19, we celebrated our graduating student-athletes and their families with a reception in their honor at the Haddock House. The class of 2019 competed in 1,170 contests...and won 669 of those contests.

The class also won six ACC Championships and three NCAA Championships while at Wake Forest.

Individually, 28 graduates were named Academic All-ACC and over half of the class earned a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.

Thank you Class of 2019!

Wake Forest athletics staff members are working hard already getting ready for the fall season. Our home football opener will be against Utah State on Friday, August 30 at 8 p.m., and will be televised live on the ACC Network. We also have the unique opportunity this year, for the first time ever, to be hosting all of our historic “Big

Four” rivals – UNC, NC State and Duke – all in the same season in Winston-Salem! Additionally, I can’t wait for all the action at Spry and Kentner Stadiums next season, and I look forward to seeing lots of black and gold-clad fans in the stands.

We have so much to be excited about, and we want to show our student-athletes how proud we are of them, so we need our fans to make a commitment to attend more games this fall. To download schedules, purchase tickets and find more information on your favorite Demon Deacon teams, visit GoDeacs.com.

As alluded to previously, the long-awaited ACC Network will launch Aug. 22. We want the entire nation to have the chance to see the Deacs compete, so we need all Wake Forest fans to contact your cable or satellite provider now and demand they carry the ACC Network. You can visit www.getaccn.com to learn more. This is a special moment in time for both the ACC and Wake Forest as ACCN will provide tremendous exclusive coverage of nationally competitive Demon Deacon student-athletes in many sports! However, it will take a grassroots effort from all ACC fans to collectively push on their providers to ensure maximum distribution! Call today.

Your input is very important to me, so please continue to send your thoughts, concerns and suggestions to wfuad@wfu.edu.

As always, thank you for your continued support of Wake Forest student-athletes.

Ron Wellman and John Currie

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JUNE 2019

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AT H L E T I C S

// J O H N C U R R I E

The Currie family - Mary-Dell (front) and (L to R) Jack, Mary Lawrence, John and Virginia

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GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE

DREAM COME

TRUE

JOHN CURRIE EMBRACES BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF HIS CAREER TO RETURN TO HIS ALMA MATER AND FOLLOW HIS MENTOR AS DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

By Jim Buice

A

s an 18-year-old freshman entering Wake Forest University in 1989, John Currie could have never imagined the chapter in his life that has now unfolded – returning as the school’s athletic director 30 years later.

director at the NCAA Division I level with leadership roles at Kansas State from 2009-17 and Tennessee in 2017.

University President Nathan Hatch said that the chief traits he looked for in selecting Wellman’s successor were a conviction that Wake Forest can win, a commitment to winning with integrity and a deep commitment to student-athletes. Currie checked off all the boxes.

“I’ve long followed John’s career,” Hatch said. “He comes highly recommended by a long list of academic leaders, commissioners, coaches, former student-athletes and staff throughout higher education and college athletics. As a Wake “Sometimes I have to pinch myself when I come down Forest grad, North Carolina native and accomplished athletic Reynolda Road and turn right into the campus,” Currie said after director, John is the assuming the position on May 1. “It’s really perfect fit to follow an overwhelming in the footsteps of his mentor.” responsibility. It’s the Currie said he was biggest challenge of my humbled and grateful to career to follow a legend like Ron (Wellman) Hatch and the Board of and to fulfill the hopes Trustees for “making this dream come true,” adding and aspirations of my that Wellman “is responsible fellow alumni.” for everything I have in my Wake Forest named professional life – the most Currie to replace Wellman, who retired important of which is the ethical foundation that has after guiding the sustained me over the last Deacon program to – JOHN CURRIE, WAKE FOREST ATHLETIC DIRECTOR, WHEN ASKED ABOUT HIS REPUTATION OF 25 years. unprecedented success DEVELOPING FACILITIES AND WHAT HAS BEEN DONE IN RECENT YEARS AT WAKE FOREST “The many great in his 27 years on accomplishments achieved the job.

Currie, who was an intern under Wellman when he was a

by Wake Forest over the last 185 years has happened because of our collective spirit, energy, creativity and initiative channeled student, became assistant director of the Deacon Club for six together,” he says with great conviction. years after graduating in 1993. He later served twice as an athletic

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JUNE 2019

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AT H L E T I C S

// J O H N C U R R I E

FROM THOSE WHO KNOW JOHN CURRIE: " I enjoyed my time working with John. One thing I really appreciate about him is the emphasis he placed on enhancing the student-athlete experience and ensuring that our young men and women had positive, transformative experiences. He also did a great job fostering relationships across campus and making it clear that the entire campus community played a major role in the success of the athletic department. I really appreciated the way he supported our program, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with him and build a friendship with Mary Lawrence and him."

– RICK BARNES Head Men's Basketball Coach, University of Tennessee " I am impressed by John's proven record of building strong senior leadership teams and hiring winning coaches, while always being committed to integrity and the student-athlete experience. As a leader he is distinguished by his energy, collaborative approach and a strong set of values that have enabled him to build enduring relationships with senior university administrators, faculty, coaches, student-athletes, alumni and all the stakeholders with whom he engages."

– GERALD F. ROACH Chair, Board of Trustees, Wake Forest University

" John is a visionary leader and an even better human being. Best in class coaches want to be on his team and student-athletes excel under his mentorship. John leads through teamwork and inclusiveness in recruiting, developing and empowering those around him to achieve their greatest potential with unwavering integrity. John is an innovator and will be a trailblazer for Wake Forest Athletics as a national model for excellence as well as a steward for our Winston Salem community in advocating for our collective future. At his core, John is a true servant leader with tremendous passion, energy and a boundless ambition for the long-term success of Wake Forest University."

– MIT SHAH CEO, Noble Investment Group, Vice Chair, Wake Forest Board of Trustees " John Currie is widely viewed as one of the brightest leaders in college sports. He has magnificent experience and frankly, what he accomplished in his time at Kansas State is nothing short of extraordinary. He is highly regarded by his peers around the NCAA as one of the most innovative leaders in college athletics. I know John will bring great vision, incredible energy and work ethic to this job and be a terrific representative for our alma mater."

– BEN C. SUTTON, JR. Wake Forest trustee; Founder and former Chairman|CEO, IMG College; Chairman, Teall Capital

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Since the announcement of Currie becoming Wake Forest’s sixth athletic director on March 4, he had nearly two months before officially taking over the position.

“The time has flown by, and I have loved every minute of listening and learning as I take a refresher course on all things Wake Forest,” Currie said. “After being away for 19 years, I am still amazed at the transformation of both Wake Forest and WinstonSalem every time I drive on campus or around our wonderful city.”

After leaving Wake Forest, Currie served in several roles at Tennessee from 2000 to 2009, rising from an assistant athletic director for development to executive associate athletic director. He was hired in 2009 at Kansas State, and his eight years there were highlighted by transformational athletic, academic and fundraising success.

Under Currie’s leadership, the Wildcats went to seven straight bowl games in football and won Big 12 championships in football (2012), men’s basketball (2013) and baseball (2013). A total of 17 teams earned NCAA Tournament berths with men’s basketball getting four NCAA Tournament berths in six years and reaching the Elite Eight (2018) under Bruce Weber, who was hired by Currie.

During his tenure at Kansas State, Currie initiated, designed and completed $210 million in comprehensive facility improvements including the Vanier Family Football Complex, West Stadium Center, Ice Family Basketball Center, Intercollegiate Rowing Facility and the Mike Goss Tennis Stadium – all funded without state tax, university tuition or fee dollars.

" I am excited about the opportunity to work with John Currie and welcome him back to Wake Forest. I have known John for over a decade and have always been impressed with his work ethic, intelligence, and dedication to his profession. He understands Wake Forest as a student and administrator. I look forward to working with John and continuing to build our football program and athletic department with him."

– DAVE CLAWSON After being named athletic director at Tennessee in 2017, Currie immediately bolstered the commitment to Title IX and Clery Act compliance and education. He also emphasized inclusiveness, quadrupling the number of female senior staff members, and accelerated the planning process of the first phase of the Historic Neyland Stadium Master Plan – earning board approval for an initial $180 million phase of an estimated $340 million project.

So, what’s been first on his agenda at Wake Forest?

“Responding to all the wonderful notes I’ve received since my appointment,” Currie said, “and continuing to get to know all of our people around our campus. I’ve probably had 120 individual meetings now with all the head coaches, many senior staff members, students, campus officials across the board, people around the community and the media.”

Head Football Coach, Wake Forest University " Not often in life do you find a perfect match. John Currie is a perfect fit for Wake Forest. He is an alum, his wife is an alum, and he is one of the brightest young people in college athletics. For him to have a chance to come home to his alma mater is special. It is big news for John Currie, but even bigger news for Wake Forest. John is prepared to lead Wake Forest into the future."

– CHRIS DEL CONTE Vice President & Director of Athletics, University of Texas

JUNE 2019

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AT H L E T I C S

// J O H N C U R R I E

" John's tenure at Kansas State University was marked by extraordinary growth and success. He clearly communicated to his student-athletes his strong commitment to academic achievement in the classroom and athletic success on the field of play. With donors, he promoted a culture of generosity that resulted in remarkable private gifts and significant facility improvements. Wake Forest University is fortunate to have such a transformational leader taking the helm of its athletic department."

– KIRK SCHULZ Former President, Kansas State University; Current President, Washington State University " W hile I was a student-athlete, John consistently made himself available to me and others and was laser focused on doing whatever he could to improve the student-athlete experience. John is a guy that gets it."

– CHRIS MERRIEWETHER Guard, 2010 Kansas State Elite Eight basketball team; Wharton School of Business MBA, Class of 2018; Exeter Property Group

" John did many great things for K-State as well as me personally. He was a great leader for the university and mentor for student-athletes. Even after I graduated he has contributed to my personal growth. I will always consider John a mentor and friend."

– RODNEY MCGRUDER Former Kansas State student-athlete, Current Miami Heat Guard " I deeply appreciate John Currie's dedication to the enhancement of the student-athlete experience and his long-standing commitment to the advancement of women and minorities."

– DANIELLE M. DONEHEW Executive Director, Women's Basketball Coaches Association

Certainly, Currie has made himself available through numerous avenues as part of his commitment to have direct communication with all of the Wake Forest constituents.

That included a media roundtable discussion in his first week on the job when he was asked about the successes of winning the NCAA championship last year in men’s tennis, having the top-ranked amateur in women’s golf and winning three straight bowl games in football – and how to improve from here while factoring in recent struggles in basketball.

“Both men’s and women’s basketball need to go up from here,” he said. “That’s no secret. It’s our job to make sure that the infrastructure and support exists to help those programs go up. Certainly, this is a place where we’ve had success in all of our programs.

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JOHN CURRIE

“Women’s basketball is probably the one where historically COLLEGE: Bachelor’s we’ve had the least degree, Wake Forest success. We’ve only (1993); Master’s degree been to the NCAAs in sports management, one time. The Tennessee (2003) question would be PREVIOUS POSITIONS AS ATHLETIC what are the factors.

DIRECTOR: Kansas State (2009-17), We’ve had five coaches Tennessee (2017) in that 30-year period.”

HONORS: Sports Business Journal’s Forty When asked about Under 40 list (2011), Under Armour reviewing current Athletic Director of the Year (2013), Bobby contracts in place with Dodd Athletic Director Award (2013) any of the coaches, FAMILY: Mary Lawrence (wife); Jack, Currie said, “We don’t Virginia, Mary-Dell (children) comment on specific contracts. We will continue to work through that process and evaluating all of our programs. With all our coaches, we’ll always have discussions about goals and expectations.”

Currie did affirm that he was “fully supportive” of the eight-year contract extension given to head football coach Dave Clawson on Wellman’s last day.

“Ron kept me apprised of the situation,” he said.

When Currie enrolled at Wake Forest, there were only eight teams competing in the ACC, but the landscape has totally changed over the years with the expanded Power Five conferences.

“We also need to look at this club of 65, so to speak, the top five conferences, and the ACC with 15 schools,” he said. “You look at field hockey where we have won three national championships, and we were in the Final Four last year. We were (tied for) fourth in the ACC last year and went to the Final Four. That’s a pretty competitive deal. It’s not going to be the disparity that there once was. It’s very competitive every year.”

Currie has certainly hit the ground running as the current school year has come to a close and looks forward to an exciting fall, including a unique fall home schedule in football.

“One of the coolest things is in football,” he said. “This year, Wake Forest hosts North Carolina, NC State and Duke – the Big Four – the first time ever in WinstonSalem. That’s really awesome. You can build around that.”

And then there’s the enhanced ACC basketball slate that follows.

“We play 20 men’s basketball games next year,” he said. “That’s pretty awesome for the fans to have 10 ACC opponents in our building next year.”

Currie said he holds true to five core principles for Wake Forest Athletics – offering a world-class student-athlete experience;. offering value to our university, to the city and the greater community; having integrity, including compliance and ethics; winning championships; and enhancing the fan experience.

When asked about any changes he’s considering, Currie said he is “really looking at evolution, looking to evolve and wanting to build on the tremendous platform that exists here already. It’s wonderful to follow someone who was successful like Ron Wellman. I’m grateful he will continue to be on speed-dial for me.”

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SPRING SPORTS

// N C A A C O M P E T I T I O N

Borna Gojo (left) and Alan Gadjiev celebrate a doubles win in the NCAA Championships.

SPECIAL SPRING MEN’S TENNIS, WOMEN’S GOLF AND MEN’S GOLF MAKE SPECTACULAR RUNS IN NCAA PLAY 12

GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE

It was a spring to remember at Wake Forest where the Deacons competed for NCAA championships in both men’s tennis and women’s golf while men’s golf advanced to the NCAA quarterfinals before losing in match play to the eventual national champion.

MEN’S TENNIS

By Jim Buice

Petros Chrysochos completed his career with a program record 136 singles wins.

T

he Wake Forest men’s tennis team knew it would be difficult to equal or top an incredible 2018 season where it was ranked No. 1 all year and won the NCAA Championship on its own home courts – including claiming the ITA National Team Indoor Championship and sweeping the ACC regular season and tournament titles.

But the Deacons made another terrific run, making it back to the NCAA Championship finals for a second straight year before falling to Texas 4-1 in the title match May 19 in Orlando, Fla. Wake Forest (34-4), which was ranked third in the country and seeded fourth in the tournament, set a new school record for victories this spring, and knocked off ACC rivals Virginia (in the quarterfinals) and North Carolina (in the semifinals) to earn a shot at defending its crown against No. 2 Texas.

The Deacons appeared to be in the driver’s seat for another championship after taking the doubles point, knowing the top three singles players – Borna Gojo, Petros Chrysochos and Bar Botzer – had combined to win about 90 percent of the time this season and that the Longhorns would need to win at least four of the six singles.

“We put ourselves in a good position winning the doubles, and we were up quite a bit in some of the first sets (in singles) and let a couple of them get away, and that changed the momentum of the match,” said WFU head coach Tony Bresky. “I think from our standpoint, if we’re going to win the doubles and then you’re going to beat us at No. 1 or No. 2, all the credit in the world to you. The odds of that happening are very slim.”

But that’s what happened with Gojo losing in straight sets at No. 1, and Chrysochos going down in three sets after winning the opening set at No. 2. Freshmen Melios Efstathiou and Siddhant Banthia fell in a pair of tight straight-set matches at No. 5 and No. 6, respectively, giving Texas the four wins it needed for the title.

No. 3 Bar Botzer and No. No. 6 Rrezart Cungu were trailing in the third set of their matches, which went unfinished after the outcome was decided.

Bresky gave credit to second-ranked Texas, a senior-laden squad with two players in the nation’s top 12-ranked players (and four in the top 55), for its strong finish on a sizzling day under the Florida sun.

“It was extremely hot, and Texas handled it great,” Bresky said.

“Us, maybe not quite so much. We had a couple of guys who caught the flu and were fighting through it, and that combined with the heat and the intensity of the other matches just caught up to us a little bit.”

The Deacons were coming off emotional victories over Virginia and North Carolina, where Gojo rallied from a set down to defeat UNC’s William Blumberg in the deciding match of a 4-3 triumph over the Tar Heels – who were coming off of an upset over topranked Ohio State – in the second match of the semifinals. Texas advanced over No. 3 Florida in the earlier semifinal the day before the finals.

Bresky said that Gojo, who battled through sickness, “just ran out of gas” in the finale. “That probably had a lot to do with it,” Bresky said of Gojo’s gutty three-set comeback win over Blumberg.

“I wonder if that took a little more out of us perhaps if we had played someone else,” Bresky said. “We’ve had a great run over

those teams (Virginia and North Carolina) recently, and you know you’re going to get their best efforts. It was probably a little more emotional than perhaps going up against an opponent from the West Coast or Big Ten.” The team competition also signaled the end for Gojo and Chrysochos, who met each other in the NCAA Men’s Singles Championship last year with Chrysochos taking the school’s first individual national title.

Both had qualified for the NCAA individual competition with Gojo ranked No. 8 in the country and Chrysochos ranked No. 11, but both withdrew following the team loss to Texas.

“For those guys, the ultimate goal is to try to win a title if they’re going to play,” Bresky said. “Having sat down with both of them, they didn’t feel they could get that far. They kind of left it out there for the team, giving it everything they had. They are about two of the most unselfish guys there are. They weren’t saving anything back for the individual tournament.

“Borna was sick, and from Petros’ point of view, he had won an individual title, won a team title, but he just didn’t think he could give as much energy and effort as it would take for him to accomplish what he wanted.”

A four-time All-American, Chrysochos completed his career as the most decorated Deacon player ever with a program record of 136 singles wins along with a treasure chest of individual honors and awards.

Bar Botzer, who is ranked No. 50 in the country, achieved AllAmerican status – joining Gojo and Chrysochos – by winning a JUNE 2019

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SPRING SPORTS

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pair of matches in the NCAA Singles Championship to reach the Round of 16 before being forced to withdraw with a foot injury.

Botzer finished the season with a 40-6 singles record, the second-most singles victories in a single season in WFU history.

Certainly, it was another incredible season, including being a finalist in the ITA National Team Indoor Championship and winning the ACC championship again, for a program that has been ranked No. 1 during parts of the last three years and established itself as a national power under the leadership of Bresky.

“I love my guys, they’re absolute warriors,” he said. “What a year for us to be able to come back and compete for the national title. I think we didn’t obviously accomplish quite what we wanted to, but the boys left it all out there.”

WOMEN’S GOLF

By John Dell

W

hen you come so close to winning the national championship, it would be easy to show that look of disappointment or despair.

For the Wake Forest’s women’s golf program, there were a few tears after the Deacons lost 3-2 in the NCAA Championship finals to Duke at The Blessings Course in Fayetteville, Ark., on May 22.

But those tears probably had more to do with the team not being together ever again.

It was the best team the Deacons have had in their long, storied history, and first-year Coach Kim Lewellen had nothing but praise for her young team. After all, Jennifer Kupcho, the best player in school history, is the only starter not returning next year.

“It was a pleasure watching this team get better all season,” said Lewellen, who took over for Dianne Dailey, the legendary coach who retired last spring. “They grew as players and as teammates.

When I came here and saw the talent, and with Jennifer deciding

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to stay in school, I thought we could have a very good year.”

The Deacons, who were ranked in the top five all season, won the ACC championship, finished second in the NCAA Regionals and then won two matches in the NCAA Championships before coming up short of winning the program’s first national championship.

It was Wake Forest’s best finish in the NCAA since the 1995 team finished third when the championship was decided by stroke play. The NCAA changed the format in 2015 to determine the national champion by match play.

The showdown with Duke had three of the five individual matches go into extra holes. The match was tied at 2, and it came down to freshman Letizia Bagnoli of the Deacons and sophomore Miranda Wang of the Blue Devils.

On the par-5 20th hole, Bagnoli pulled her second shot into the water as she was blocked out slightly with a big tree that was in the middle of the fairway. Wang’s second shot settled over the green but in much better shape than Bangoli.

Wang chipped onto the green from about 25 feet, and after her birdie attempt was within a foot of the hole, Bangoli conceded as the Blue Devils won their seventh national championship.

Kupcho closed out her amateur career with a 1 up loss on extra holes to Jaravee Boonchant. Kupcho, who had nine career wins to rank second in school history behind Stephanie Neill, won the NCAA championship last spring and earlier this spring won the Augusta National Women’s Amateur.

“Obviously disappointment,” Kupcho told the Golf Channel after the close loss. “There are no words to describe it. After I lost my sophomore year, it feels the same way losing. The only difference is my team is here with me, and it is the end of my college career.

“It is hard to swallow, but I know that I’ve gotten a bunch of texts, and I have a big professional career ahead of me, and it starts next week. I have a quick turnaround, and we’ll see what happens.”

Kupcho, who already has her LPGA Tour card, decided against

Jennifer Kupcho

turning pro in January because she wanted to stay in school and be a part of a team one last time.

“They are amazing,” she said about her teammates. “It is hard.

They are all so great, and we are a big family. I know I’ll miss them, and they will miss me, and there is nothing else you can say to that.”

The good news for Lewellen is four of the starters are expected to return, led by rising junior Emilia Migliaccio, who beat Gina Kim of Duke 1 up in the championship match.

Rising senior Siyun Liu of the Deacons beat Virginia Elena Carta 1 up on the 20th hole, and Liu will also be back. Bagnoli, who was so steady as a freshman this season, will also return.

Migliaccio, who along with Kupcho were named All-America this season, gave credit to Kupcho for being a team player.

“It really shows her dedication and her loyalty,” Migliaccio said.

“She obviously is a big reason why we made it to the finals, and just from a competitive standpoint, you know, she pushes everyone to their best.”

Lewellen, who earned her fourth ACC Coach of the Year honor this season (she won three times when she was at Virginia), says getting to the championship final will help the program in the future. Three top recruits are signed for next season.

“This can only help us because we got a taste of it, and we did come so close,” she said.

Soon after the championship match was over, Migliaccio was already looking forward to next season.

“I’m ready now,” Migliaccio said. “Coach (Lewellen) and Coach Ryan (Potter) were so much fun to play for, and we had great drills to do in practice, and it kept us sharp the entire season. It’s disappointing we didn’t win, but we can look ahead and be ready for next season.”

Lee Detmer

MEN’S GOLF

By John Dell t didn't take long for Coach Jerry Haas to reach a rather lofty claim about his 22nd Wake Forest men's golf team.

The Deacons, who were ranked in the top five for most of the fall and the spring, were deep and talented and that carried them to the match-play portion of the NCAA Championships.

Wake Forest wound up losing a close 3-2 quarterfinal match to

I

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SPRING SPORTS

// N C A A C O M P E T I T I O N

Coach Jerry Haas (left) with Cameron Young Stanford, the eventual national champions, but the overall season was deemed a true success.

The Deacons won five times, the most since Haas was on the team in the 1983-84 season playing for the legendary Jesse Haddock. They were the lone ACC school to make it through the gauntlet that is the 72-hole stroke play format of the NCAA's.

"This has been one of my best and deepest teams I've had," Haas said during the middle of the season. "They all are competitive and want to be in that starting lineup, and they aren't afraid of working hard."

Unfortunately, the season came to an end in the quarterfinals to The Cardinal.

"It is a heartbreaking way to have your season end," Haas said after the loss at The Blessings Course in Fayetteville, Ark. "In match play, anything can happen, and the difference between moving on or being eliminated is really small."

Wake Forest was led by seniors Cameron Young and Lee Detmer, who saved his best for last. Detmer wound up tied for fourth in the individual portion of the NCAA's and Young ends his career with five wins to rank tied for fourth in school history.

"We have played well all year long and (against Stanford),” Haas said. “We just didn't have the breaks go our way. We battled hard for 72 holes over four days to put ourselves in this position, and I feel bad for these guys because I know how hard they worked. We will learn from this experience and be better the next time."

Detmer's fourth-place showing gave the Deacons eight different players who were the low scorers this season. That showed tremendous depth, and it's something Haas hopes will continue next season.

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"It is a great to have this finish in my final collegiate event," said Detmer, who will compete on the Canadian Tour this summer.

"This has been a long time coming, and I put in a lot of hard work.

I felt like I could compete at this level, and I am really happy to show it."

Next season, Wake Forest will have plenty of experience in rising sophomores Alex Fitzpatrick and Eugenio Chacarra. Fitzpatrick won his match in the loss to Stanford, and Chacarra was the ACC's top freshman.

Also, rising senior Eric Bae will give Haas three starters back from the starting lineup he used in regional and NCAA play.

The Deacons had five players – Bae, Chacarra, Young, Fitzpatrick and Kengo Aoshima – all make the PING All-Region team that further illustrated the depth Haas was able to utilize.

Young will remain an amateur this summer as he tries to make the Walker Cup Team.

What also bodes well is that Wake Forest finally cracked the code to get to the match play portion. Since the format was changed from stroke play to match play in 2009, the Deacons hadn't been among the final eight schools.

That all changed as they put together solid scoring to finish third in the stroke play to easily advance.

"I'm extremely proud of this team," Haas said in summation.

It was Wake Forest’s best finish under Haas in the NCAA's since a tie for third in 2006.

John Dell, who has worked at the Winston-Salem Journal since 1993 as a sportswriter, has covered Wake Forest golf for the last 23 years.

ARMED

Contractor

Commercial

Residential

JUNE 2019

FOOTBALL

// J A C K F R E U D E N T H A L

CATCHING ON TIGHT END JACK FREUDENTHAL GOES FROM WALK-ON TO SCHOLARSHIP PLAYER TO STARTER AND NOW TEAM CAPTAIN

By Sam Walker

A

s early as the age of 5, Jack Freudenthal remembers loving football. His Saturdays were spent first playing the game followed by watching ESPN’s College GameDay followed by the televised marquee college football matchups that followed the rest of the day.

Fast forward to today, and Freudenthal has gone from walk-on to scholarship player to the projected starting tight end and has been elected a team captain of the 2019 Wake Forest football team.

Freudenthal graduated this spring, and he will be working on a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies this fall as he completes his final year of eligibility.

He started his college football career with no guarantees other than an invitation to walk on after attending a Wake Forest football camp. His love of the game was his only motivator, and that has proven more than enough to realize his dream of playing college football at the highest level.

“I’ve loved football from my first practice,” Freudenthal said. “I definitely could have attended a smaller school, but I always dreamed of playing Power Five football. I grew up watching USC and Reggie Bush and all those guys. I really didn’t think about college football until my sophomore or junior season. I went to camps going into my senior year,

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took a chance on a Power Five school, went to camp at Wake Forest and talked to Coach (Dave) Clawson, who said they would love to have me, and I thought if football didn’t work out that Wake Forest is an incredible school, so I could see where that takes me.”

Football has been part of Freudenthal’s entire collegiate journey, and he well remembers how tough his first season was at Wake Forest. There was much hard work in all aspects of learning to play college football as well as getting stronger, along with lots of studies both in the playbook and his school books. But, in his words, it just

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FOOTBALL

// J A C K F R E U D E N T H A L

on scholarship. He didn’t want me to take my foot off the gas but keep earning it every day. We called my dad (Kevin Freudenthal), and Coach Clawson told him, and it was so awesome. I get goose bumps still thinking about it, and I’ll never forget that moment.”

Freudenthal started 13 games in 2018 and played 751 snaps, including roles on special teams where he led the team with five tackles on the punt coverage team. He has 18 career receptions, and five career touchdown catches, a ratio of one TD catch for every 3.4 receptions – the best catch-to-touchdown ratio in Wake Forest history. His most spectacular career moment to

JACK FREUDENTHAL POSITION: Tight End HEIGHT: 6-3 WEIGHT: 240 CLASS: Redshirt Senior MAJOR: Communication HOMETOWN: Richmond, Va. FAVORITE BOOK: “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand

FREUDENTHAL STARTED 13 GAMES IN 2018 AND PLAYED 751 SNAPS, INCLUDING ROLES ON SPECIAL TEAMS WHERE HE LED THE TEAM WITH FIVE TACKLES ON THE PUNT COVERAGE TEAM. HE HAS 18 CAREER RECEPTIONS, AND FIVE CAREER TOUCHDOWN CATCHES, A RATIO OF ONE TD CATCH FOR EVERY 3.4 RECEPTIONS – THE BEST CATCH-TO-TOUCHDOWN RATIO IN WAKE FOREST HISTORY. HIS MOST SPECTACULAR CAREER MOMENT TO DATE IS HIS 34-YARD TOUCHDOWN CATCH WITH 30 SECONDS REMAINING THAT WAS THE GO-AHEAD SCORE IN A 27-23 UPSET VICTORY AT 14TH-RANKED NC STATE.

FAVORITE FOOD: Flank Steak FAVORITE ATHLETE: LeBron James FAVORITE WAKE FOREST MOMENT: Wake Forest’s 55-52 victory over Texas A&M in the 2017 Belk Bowl Victory to cap an 8-5 season

all kind of worked out as he earned his spot by working his way through the ranks as first a special teams player and then backup before getting his opportunity to start.

Freudenthal had waited in the wings behind Cam Serigne, who finished his career as the ACC’s all-time record holder for tight ends in catches (174), yards (2,075), and touchdowns (21) from 2014 to 2017. Freudenthal stepped up last season to be a leader and helped the team produce another winning season and a third straight bowl victory – a 34-31 win over Memphis in the Birmingham Bowl.

After coming to Wake Forest in 2015 and proving himself on special teams as a redshirt freshman in 2016, Freudenthal caught his first career pass against Clemson, a 26-yard reception from Kendall Hinton, as a redshirt sophomore. He earned a scholarship after three and a half semesters at Wake Forest.

“I wasn’t going to ask for it (a scholarship), but it happened when Coach Clawson called me into his office after one of our spring evaluation meetings,” Freudenthal said. “He sat me down and told me I had done everything they asked, and they were going to put me

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GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE

date is his 34-yard touchdown catch with 30 seconds remaining that was the go-ahead score in a 27-23 upset victory at 14thranked NC State.

“That’s probably the greatest play of my career so far,“ Freudenthal said. “Going into that drive, I was just trying to do my job actually.

There were so many plays that kept us in that game. I caught the ball and ran into the end zone, and that was the quietest it had been in that stadium, and that’s probably the loudest stadium I’ve played in.”

His leadership on the team led to his being selected a team captain for the upcoming season along with cornerback Essang Bassey, running back Cade Carney, offensive tackle Justin Herron and linebacker Justin Strnad.

“It’s a tremendous honor,” Freudenthal said. “When I came here, I didn’t have team captain as a goal. It’s just so far beyond where I was as a freshman when it was just me focused on every day, every workout. However, it’s a lot of responsibility, and all of us elected captain, we’re going to try our best. I’ve always tried to do everything the right way since I got here. It didn’t happen overnight, but all of us voted as captains just stepped up.”

Freudenthal’s formula for success was simple. He said he kept his head down, worked hard and learned from his coaches and teammates. With no guarantees other than an invitation to walk onto the team, Freudenthal’s determination has taken him far beyond what he imagined.

100% COTTEN

// S TA N C O T T E N

Ends and Beginnings

S TA N COTTEN VOICE OF THE DEMON DEACONS

We have come to the end of the line. For me, the 2018-19 season is in the books. And with the words of this space come a ‘so long’ until the late summer begins to creep toward fall and the start of the 2019 football season. I guess there’ll be a tweet here and there, but mostly a summer spent organizing for the next go ‘round, some time relaxing with family on an ocean or two, and a few rounds of golf just to see if my claim to the golf world still is true: There’s never been a golf hole created that I can’t bogey.

And so it is.

These last couple of weeks for me were focused on tomorrow. The seasons and years to come. And now we are able to make what I think is a pretty big announcement. As my football/baseball partner Lary Sorensen tweeted on hearing the news “…a Big Voice for the Voice.”

What are we talking about? Well, if you haven’t heard, our longtime flagship radio station, WBRF-FM, out of Galax, Va., has agreed to another five years of anchoring our statewide network of earth stations broadcasting Demon Deacon football and basketball with its massive 100,000-watts of power.

You can hear WBRF all over the Triad. Crystal clear. You can hear it all the way over to Hickory, down to Statesville, through Thomasville and back up to Greensboro. Day or night. You live in Southwest Virginia? No problem. I’ve even gotten calls before from folks in upper East Tennessee who are able to hear us at 98.1 FM. It’s the most powerful flagship signal in the ACC, and it’s ours through 2023-24.

I’ve worked on getting this contract done for the last year, and I was thrilled for all of us when the

Stan and Wake Forest Learfield IMG College GM Jeff Salisbury (seated at left) join Debby Stringer (beside Stan) and Kelly Epperson (beside Jeff) of WBRF for the celebration of their new agreement.

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ink hit the paper at a celebratory lunch at The Grille at McCreary Tower. I’d like to thank my friends Kelly Epperson and Debby (Epperson) Stringer of WBRF for their work in getting this done and committing for another five years.

This gives us an incredible base from which to build not only our radio network’s signal and coverage, but it also serves as an anchor for our Learfield IMG College sales team led by General Manager Jeff Salisbury. This contract truly is a win-win-win.

For Wake Forest. For Learfield IMG College. For WBRF. WBRF has been part of our radio family in one way shape or form for nearly 30 years now. The Epperson family is truly iconic in radio circles. The name alone raises eyebrows and commands attention not just in our neck of the woods, but around the country. We are truly blessed to have them as a part of our team. Again. WBRF and the Eppersons are more than partners.

They are friends. They love Wake (Debby is a proud alum). They are committed to us, and we are committed to them.

Now even more good news to tell you about. And it also involves the Epperson family. We’ve also come to terms with Truth Broadcasting, owned and operated by Kelly and Debby’s cousin Stu Epperson, and a dozen of its affiliates around North Carolina to continue broadcasting Wake sports in and around Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, Greensboro and Winston-Salem.

We came to terms with Truth not long before renewing with WBRF. Let’s just say May was really good on the radio/broadcasting front as it relates to the future and our ability to keep you ‘at the game’ even when you can’t be there. So a tip of the cap to the Eppersons, their commitment to Wake Forest, their stations and to the future.

We’ll see you soon, and for years to come, on the radio.

Pressed

FOR TIME?

LET US TAKE A LOAD OFF. That jumbled heap of clothing lies in wait. But you have more pressing matters. So, bring the load to us.

We’ll bring order to the chaos.

Right the first time or it’s free. www.acleanerworld.com

Winston-Salem Downtown 125 S. Main Street

336.714.2800

Proud to be a Demon Deacon!

Member, Women’s Golf ACC & East Regional Championship Teams 1994&1995

JUNE 2019

23

INSIDE THE DEACON CLUB

Show your Demon Deacon Pride

BA R RY FA I R C L O T H SENIOR A S S O C I AT E AT H L E T I C DIRECTOR, DEVELOPMENT

24

As our new Director of Athletics John Currie has hit the ground running, he is delivering a clear message to our various constituents — wear black and gold, attend more games and demand the ACC Network from your cable or satellite provider.

The key takeaway of his message is resonating with our fans — be proud to be a Demon Deacon.

Wear your black and gold with pride and give an enthusiastic “Go Deacs” to a passerby that is wearing the WF logo. Understand that attending more games must be intentional — you need to prepare and make our games a priority. Be a Demon Deacon evangelist by encouraging others to attend and become a catalyst of Deacon pride among your groups of family, friends and co-workers.

When I think about one of the best examples of someone who has carried out this effort over the course of more than 60 years, I think of Abe Elmore (’55). Abe was a student manager at the Old Campus of Wake Forest and used his job to work his way through college. He later came to lead a club called the “Wake Forest Has-Beens” — a group of alumni from the Old Campus. His leadership manifested itself through various communications to his group. He coordinated reunions and the HasBeens became known as some of the most loyal and steadfast attendees at any event we hosted.

Abe took his Deacon pride to a new level when he bought an oversized van that could hold 15-20 people...a tailgating machine! It not only held all his supplies, but also provided seating for his guests.

Each Homecoming he would order about 60-70 tickets for his group. He consistently brought his co-workers to games and coordinated outings for customers. Over the years, his family has grown

GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE

to 21 great-grandchildren who all made coming to games a regular occasion, traveling from Dunn, N.C., where Elmore Furniture was the staple of the community. His tremendous passion for Wake Forest earned Abe the Gene Hooks Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes a former Wake Forest coach, staff member, student-athlete, trainer or manager who has exhibited traits of integrity, charity and leadership, and embodies the Pro Humanitate spirit that Dr. Hooks, former Director of Athletics, exhibited over his 45 years associated with Wake Forest University.

Unfortunately, Abe passed away a few weeks ago, but I was privileged to attend his funeral.

What I learned at the funeral was that this amazing man was not only a staple of the Wake Forest community, but the ultimate leader in his own community. He had a burning desire to improve his hometown of Dunn, where he served as Mayor from 1971 to 1983. Even in death, with an overcapacity crowd looking on, he continued to exemplify what it means to be an avid, passionate Wake Forest fan. He was buried with a Wake Forest hat on his head and a Deacons sign on his casket, and as his Celebration of Life came to an end, a chorus of “Rah! Rah! Wake Forest, Rah!” echoed through the room as the entire church joined together in the singing of the fight song.

There is no doubt that Wake Forest was an integral part of Abe’s life. Whether he was gathering friends to watch the Deacs on TV, coordinating a reunion of the Has-Beens, or gathering groups of family, co-workers or friends to attend our games and events, he was a true leader for the Wake Forest fan base. As we work to implement John Currie’s vision to provide the passion and spirit that will inspire and motivate our teams to the next level and support our university and community, we are counting on more people to carry on the legacy of those like Abe Elmore. Take a leadership role and do your part to encourage others to wear black and gold, attend more games and demand the ACC Network. Most of all, get excited because there’s a lot to look forward to. Go Deacs!

INSIDE THE DEACON CLUB

2019 WAKE FOREST GOLF PRO-AM Mark your calendar for the 2019 Wake Forest Pro-Am! The reception will be held at Haddock House on Sunday, Oct. 13, with the pro-am taking place at Old Town Club on Monday, Oct. 14. For more information and to register, please call (336) 758-6000.

Keep up with the Deacon Club on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

For the latest news and information from the Deacon Club and to connect with other members, be sure to find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram! @WFUDeaconClub Facebook.com/DeaconClub @WFUDeaconClub | @DeacOnTheRun @BarryFaircloth

SAVE THE DATE: VARSITY CLUB AND HOMECOMING WEEKEND We hope you’ll be able to join fellow Deacon fans, Varsity Club members, Wake Forest coaches and staff on Friday, Sept.

20, and Saturday, Sept.

21. The Deacs will play Elon in the Homecoming football game on Saturday (game time TBA). More information will be provided in the coming weeks.

2019 FOOTBALL TICKETS SELLING QUICKLY Coming off back-to-back-to-back bowl championships, the Demon Deacons will host seven home games in 2019, including matchups with UNC, NC State, Duke, Florida State and Louisville. Highlighted ticket packages include: • Season tickets (starting at $165) • Big Four Package: Wake Forest vs. UNC, NC State and Duke (starting at $110) • Opening Night Package: Four tickets and a parking pass to the home opener vs. Utah State on Aug. 30 ($59 through June 30; $69 beginning July 1) You can order your tickets by calling the Wake Forest Athletics Sales Team at (336) 758-3322 ext. 1 or by visiting GoDeacs.com. We’re expecting sellout crowds this fall, so be sure to get your tickets while they’re still available!

JUNE 2019

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DONOR PROFILE

// T O N Y A N D V I G O L D I N G

Golf connects Goldings with WFU

F

or Tony and Vi Golding, Wake Forest and its athletic programs have long served as a source of joy and pride.

The relationships they’ve developed, the opportunities they’ve been presented and the memories they’ve made are all things the couple cherishes about their connection with Wake Forest Athletics.

Both avid Deacon fans who bleed black and gold, it was their collective interest in golf that initially connected them with the Athletic Department. It started off with Vi attending Dianne Dailey’s summer golf camp each year. “Attending Dianne’s golf camp was like a family reunion,” Vi reminisced. Not only did she establish meaningful friendships with fellow attendees, Vi also developed a great relationship with Coach Dailey.

Throughout the years, Tony formed a friendship with Dianne as well and, ultimately, the couple also became close with Coach Jerry Haas.

With current women’s golf coach, Kim Lewellen, helping out at Dianne

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Dailey’s camp over the years, the Goldings had the opportunity to get to know her long before it was announced she would lead the Deacs. “Kim is a great fit for the program,” Vi stated.

“We can’t say enough fantastic things about both the women’s and men’s coaches,” Tony added. “They have the right mentality, attitude and ethics to develop champions.”

As they began spending more time following the men’s and women’s golf programs over time, the Goldings were inspired to increase their involvement.

“I saw what quality players were coming out of Wake Forest and the integrity that each one of them possessed really impressed me,” Tony reflected. Upon meeting Paul Kennedy, who works for the Deacon Club, Tony and Vi determined how they could show greater support for the golf programs beyond simply cheering them on.

While they’ve generously contributed to the men’s and women’s golf programs and the Arnold Palmer Golf Complex

renovation, among other things, the Goldings — who are also loyal Moricle Society members — have most recently supported the Dianne Dailey Women’s Golf Excellence Fund and the Men’s Golf Excellence Fund. Support of these budget-enhancing funds allows Wake Forest golf student-athletes to train, practice and perform at the highest level, all while making it possible for the coaches to meet the individual and unique needs of their respective programs. This concept really resonated with Tony and Vi. “We want to be part of something great, and we feel that the golf programs are truly top-notch,” they shared. “It’s an honor for us to show our support and help make the programs even better.”

From increasing the recruiting budget, to providing additional competition opportunities for the entire team, to upgrading technology for teaching and training, support of these excellence funds goes a long way. But for the Goldings, it’s more than just impacting

PA G E H E A D E R

the golf programs as a whole, it’s about making a difference in the lives of the student-athletes. “Wake gave me the incredible opportunity to advance my skills while earning my business degree,” Tony stated. “I want to give back and help these young men and women advance their skills, both on the course and in the classroom.”

Between residing in Bermuda Run, where the golf teams frequently practice, and their connection with the coaches and Athletic Department, the Goldings have had the chance to interact with many of the Demon Deacon golfers. “The student-athletes are so friendly, respectful and hardworking,” they affirmed. “We’re so proud to call them Deacs.”

When it comes to making a difference, however, the Goldings’ impact extends far beyond their financial support. Dedicated to the success and well-being of Wake Forest Athletics and all Demon Deacon student-athletes, they also commit their time in a multitude of ways. Not only has Tony served three years on the Deacon Club Board of Directors, both he and Vi attend many Wake Forest games and competitions, including

every home football and men’s basketball game.

In reflecting on their journey with Wake Forest, so many wonderful memories stand out for the couple. While Vi recalls fond memories of her time spent at Dianne Dailey’s camp, Tony reminisces about playing golf with legendary coach Jesse Haddock at Bermuda Run, and having the opportunity to play Augusta National with a group of fellow Deacon Club members.

Although they’ve already had a plethora of amazing experiences, the Goldings know there are many more Wake Forest memories to be created.

They can’t wait to see what the future holds for the golf programs and they look forward to cheering the studentathletes on to unrivaled success. “We’re so excited to watch the continued growth of Demon Deacon golf, and we know both programs are in great hands with Jerry and Kim leading the way.”

To learn more about supporting excellence funds, please contact Mike Piscetelli at (336) 758-3647 or piscetmf@wfu.edu.

deacon club photos Deacon Club members are encouraged to submit photos for publication in the Gold Rush. Send your photos in digital format to DeacClub@wfu.edu. Submission of a photo does not guarantee that it will be published. Thanks for showing off your Demon Deacon pride!

2

1

1 Demon Deacon football alumnus Brandon Chubb (’15) talks with Director of Athletics John Currie at a reception for Charlotte-area Deacon Club members, alumni and friends.

2 Student-athletes from the Wake Forest Class of 2019 gather at Haddock House to celebrate their accomplishments at this year’s Athletics Graduation Reception.

3

3 T he Men’s Golf Leadership Committee checks out the new PuttView technology at the Dianne Dailey Golf Learning Center after playing a round at Old Town Club.

JUNE 2019

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PA RH E Y N O W ?

W HGEER H E EAARDEE T

//

KENDRA BEARD GRAHAM

I

n each issue, Where Are They Now showcases a former Wake Forest student-athlete. Kendra Beard Graham (’85) was a member of the Wake Forest women's golf team from 1982-85. She competed in the first-ever ACC Women's Golf Championship in 1984 and posted a top-20 finish at the ACC Championship during her senior season in 1985.

KENDRA BEARD GRAHAM When did you graduate from Wake Forest? 1985 What was your major and/or minor?

B.A. Speech Communications (Radio, Television and Film) What does being a Demon Deacon mean to you?

Everything! I know my answer might sound a bit melodramatic, but being a student-athlete at Wake Forest University was an incredible experience.

I loved every minute of my time as a Demon Deacon and am so thankful to my professors and coaches. They informed my career choice, which also led me to my future husband. The lessons I learned in and out of the classroom remain with me today, and I can honestly say that I cannot imagine my life without the friends that I met while at Wake Forest.

Why are you still involved in Wake Forest Athletics?

As a former student-athlete, I will be forever grateful to those Deacon Club donors who enabled my scholarship, and I have always felt a sense of responsibility to do the same. A great way to stay connected with one's alma mater is through the athletics program.

I love following not only the women's and men's golf programs, but all of our wonderful student-athletes and teams.

Why do you feel it is important to give back to the University?

I'm a firm believer in progression — there's a direct correlation between where you're going and where you've been. I wish I could return to WFU and play golf there now! The women's golf program has developed into one that I almost don't recognize. But then I remind myself that my teammates and I had to forge the way for future female golfers so that they can be where they are today. There has to be a yesterday in order for there to be a tomorrow.

Students past and present should stay involved and connected, which can be accomplished in a variety of ways, but most importantly by donating money

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and supporting our teams by attending games. Wake Forest student-athletes work hard, and the best way to show our appreciation for their efforts is by showing up.

What is your current occupation?

After working in the Rules and Competitions Department for the United States Golf Association (USGA) for 17 years, I retired in 2003 when my son was in kindergarten so that I could be a full-time mom.

Since then, I have worked part-time as a consultant in golf administration, which has included running golf tournaments, teaching Rules of Golf seminars and working for Golf Channel. Two years ago, I was asked to serve on the USGA's Executive Committee (Board of Directors). I am a member of the Championship Committee and also chair the Rules of Golf Committee. I do a lot of officiating and was lucky enough to have a front row seat at the inaugural Augusta National Women's Amateur Championship and experience Jennifer Kupcho's win in person.

What is your favorite memory of your time at Wake Forest?

It is so hard to pick just one, but if I have to, it would be time spent with my teammates. When I was in school, the NCAA didn't limit the number of tournaments you could play in or days out of the classroom, so we were together a lot. When we traveled to tournaments, it was mostly by van, and we were off campus for at least four days at a time (a practice round and three competition rounds). We always had a lot of fun!

What makes you most proud of Wake Forest?

The fact that the university has been able to remain relatively small in size, but big in stature. The campus has grown, but retains its beauty. It's always special to meet

another WFU graduate because there are so few of us, but we share a remarkable heritage.

When you come back to Wake Forest, you always…

Walk around campus remembering so many wonderful memories, and they all come flooding back. I love that first look at Wait Chapel…I get this feeling that I've returned home.

I was there when…

There were only three places to eat on campus — the Pit, Snack Pit and Mag Room!

Who is your favorite coach at Wake Forest, current or past?

Marge Crisp. Miss Crisp was my golf coach during my freshman and sophomore years. Previously, she had been the women's athletic director and started the women's golf program at WFU. I have great respect for what she accomplished as an administrator, especially back in the day. My one regret is that she repeatedly tried to teach us how to play bridge so that we could play with her when we were on the road, but I never learned and wish I had. I still don't know how to play bridge!

DEACONS IN THE PROS BASEBALL Coaches/Scouts Ross Atkins Neil Avent TJ Barra Danny Borrell Adam Bourassa Dave Bush George Greer Michael Holmes Bill Masse Matt Price Mike Rikard Eric Schmitt Adam Wogan

MLB MLB MLB MLB MLB MLB MLB MLB MLB MLB MLB MLB MLB

Toronto Blue Jays Oakland A’s New York Mets New York Yankees Pittsburgh Pirates Boston Red Sox St. Louis Cardinals San Francisco Giants Seattle Mariners Kansas City Royals Boston Red Sox New York Yankees Chicago Cubs

General Manager Area Scout Director of Baseball Research & Development Pitching Coordinator Area Scout Pitching Coordinator, Performance Hitting Coach Amateur Scouting Director Area Scout Area Scouting Supervisor Vice President of Amateur Scouting Director of Player Development Area Scout

MAJOR LEAGUES Mac Williamson

Seattle Mariners

MINOR LEAGUE RANKS Johnny Aiello Ben Breazeale Will Craig Parker Dunshee Stuart Fairchild Chris Farish Aaron Fossas Connor Johnstone Garrett Kelly Nate Mondou Jonathan Pryor Griffin Roberts Donnie Sellers Gavin Sheets Rayne Supple

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COMPLIANCE CORNER

// T O D D H A I R S T O N

COACHES RECRUITING EXAM TODD HAIRSTON SENIOR A S S O C I AT E AT H L E T I C DIRECTOR, COMPLIANCE

High school and college students recently finished taking final exams, but did you know that college coaches must also pass an annual certification exam? While the NCAA allows a certain number of coaches in each sport to recruit, in order to engage in off-campus recruiting activities, coaches must first demonstrate their knowledge of NCAA recruiting rules by passing a certification exam. The test covers a number of topics but primarily focuses on three areas from the NCAA manual: Article 13 (Recruiting), Article 14 (Eligibility) and Article 15 (Financial Aid).

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Test questions include scenarios from each content area and are specific to each sport. In order to be certified, coaches must achieve a score of 80 percent or better (24/30).

Compliance offices typically provide study guides and review sessions to assist coaches in the process.

If a coach does not earn a passing score, they must wait a minimum of 30 days before they are allowed to sit for the test again, during which time they are not allowed to recruit.

Given the competitive landscape that exists within college recruiting, having a coach who is unable to be on the road during critical recruiting windows could put a program at a decided disadvantage, so much like their student-athletes during finals week, coaches feel the pressure when preparing for the exam.

Do you think you have what it takes to be a college recruiter? If you’d like to put yourself to the test, take the NCAA Practice Exam by visiting www. bit.ly/19PracticeExam and see if you can earn a passing score!

RON WELLMAN

A LEGACY OF INTEGRITY, EXCELLENCE, LEADERSHIP & TEAMWORK It is not surprising that the four core values of the Wake Forest University Department of Athletics are: Integrity, Excellence, Leadership and Teamwork. For nearly 27 years Director of Athletics Ron Wellman embodied these ideals to the fullest as he led the Demon Deacons to an unprecedented level of success and national prominence.

His commitment to these values along with his professionalism, passion, and belief in people has earned him the tremendous respect of his colleagues and peers, and he has been lauded as one of the most impactful leaders in college athletics.

Ron’s retirement on May 1, 2019 may have marked the end of an era in Wake Forest athletics history, but it was also the commencement of a new era for Ron, Linda and their family. They now get to relish the fruits of their labors, revel in the future successes made possible by the strong foundation built over the last several decades and simply enjoy life as proud Demon Deacon fans.

For those of us who had the privilege of working with Ron on a daily basis, his presence will be missed, but all we have to do to be reminded of his exceptional legacy, is look around. The evidence is everywhere – from the facilities, to the coaches and staff, to the smiles on the faces of student-athletes as they take the field or walk across the stage to accept their diploma. There is no doubt that his legacy of integrity, excellence, leadership and teamwork will live on for generations to come.

TRANSFORMING FACILITIES When it comes to athletics facilities, describing Ron’s tenure as “transformational” just doesn’t seem to do him justice. Every single facility used by Wake Forest student-athletes, coaches and staff has either been constructed or renovated during his time as Director of Athletics. The campus and surrounding area have undergone incredible changes over the years while Ron’s commitment has propelled Wake Forest to the forefront of the ACC in terms of providing our student-athletes first-class facilities.

Ron’s early years saw the construction of Spry Stadium (1996), Bridger Field House (1998), and the Miller Center (2001), and since 2008, Wake Forest has invested $250 million in athletics construction projects ranging from McCreary Tower at BB&T Field to the purchase of David F. Couch Ballpark and the LJVM Coliseum from the City of Winston-Salem. From new construction to renovations and enhancements, every athletic facility and program has benefitted from these significant investments.

Bridger Field House Opened: 1998

Kenneth D. Miller Center Opened: 2001

BB&T Field Recent Renovations: 2005-2011

McCreary Tower Opened: 2008

LJVM Coliseum Purchased: 2013 | Renovations: Ongoing

W. Dennie Spry Soccer Stadium Opened: 1996 | Renovated: 2017

Kentner Stadium Renovated: 2017

Varsity Gym Renovated: 2018

Manchester Athletic Center Renovated: 2017

Arnold Palmer Golf Complex Opened: 2010

Dianne Dailey Learning Center Opened: 2010

Haddock House Opened: 2016

David F. Couch Ballpark Purchased: 2009 | Renovations: 2011-2018

Chris Hurd Player Development Center Phase 1 Opened: 2017

Chris Hurd Player Development Center Phase 2 Opened: 2018

Wake Forest Tennis Complex Indoor Tennis Center Opened: 1997 Outdoor Complex Opened: 2011

Southern Family Seating at the Leighton Team Courts | Opened: 2016

Doc Martin Football Practice Complex Renovated: 2016

Sports Performance Center Complex Opening: 2019

Shah Basketball Complex Opening: 2019

Sutton Sports Performance Center Opening: 2019

McCreary Field House Opened: 2016

CHAMPIONSHIPS ▶ ACC Championship – Men’s Cross Country – 1993

▶ ACC Championship – Field Hockey – 2006

▶ ACC Championship – Men’s Cross Country – 1994

▶ ACC Championship – Football – 2006

▶ ACC Championship – Women’s Golf – 1994

▶ NCAA Championship – Men’s Soccer 2007

▶ ACC Championship – Men’s Basketball - 1995

▶ ACC Championship – Women’s Golf – 2009

▶ ACC Championship – Women’s Golf – 1995

▶ ACC Championship – Women’s Golf – 2010

▶ ACC Championship – Men’s Basketball – 1996

▶ ACC Championship – Women’s Soccer – 2010

▶ ACC Championship – Baseball – 1998

▶ ACC Championship – Field Hockey – 2014

▶ ACC Championship – Baseball – 1999

▶ ACC Championship – Men’s Tennis – 2016

▶ ACC Championship – Baseball - 2001

▶ ACC Championship – Men’s Soccer – 2016

▶ ACC Championship – Field Hockey – 2002

▶ ACC Championship – Men’s Soccer – 2017

▶ NCAA Championship – Field Hockey 2002

▶ ACC Championship – Men’s Tennis – 2018

▶ ACC Championship – Women’s Cross Country – 2002

▶ NCAA Championship – Men’s Tennis 2018

▶ ACC Championship – Field Hockey – 2003

▶ ACC Championship – Men’s Tennis – 2019

▶ NCAA Championship – Field Hockey 2003

▶ ACC Championship – Women’s Golf – 2019

▶ NCAA Championship – Field Hockey 2004

WELLMAN: BY THE NUMBERS

5

24

46

40

40

NCAA Championships

ACC Championships

ACC Players of the Year

ACC Freshmen of the Year

ACC Coaches of the Year

654

180

27

18

$400

All-ACC First Team selections

First Team All-Americans

First Team Academic All-Americans

ACC Tournament MVPs

Million Raised for Athletics

A RESPECTED DEACON LEADER One of the countless accomplishments during Ron’s tenure was the development of the Deacon Leader System, a comprehensive leadership development system designed to identify, train and develop student-athlete leaders. Deacon leaders exhibit exceptional character, a positive attitude, competitiveness, commitment and selflessness, and there is no one that personifies these attributes more than Ron Wellman.

Ron’s strong leadership impacted not only thousands of Wake Forest student-athletes over the years, but also those that worked with him. As a result, his influence can be felt throughout the world of college athletics and beyond. Currently, there are nine Directors of Athletics serving colleges and universities across the nation who once worked with Ron at Wake Forest.

Mike Buddie

Director of Athletics Army West Point

WELLMAN AD TREE

John Currie

Michael Kelly

Director of Athletics Univ. of South Florida

Joel Nielsen

Director of Athletics Wake Forest University

Director of Athletics Kent State University

Dan Hauser

Perk Weisenberger

Director of Athletics High Point University

Director of Athletics Ferris State University

Samantha Huge

Hunter Yurachek

Director of Athletics William & Mary

Director of Athletics University of Arkansas

Tom Kleinlein

Director of Athletics Georgia Southern University

What better way to start to understand the remarkable impact Ron has had on the world of college athletics and the people in that world than to hear what those people have to say?

“Ron was my boss first, then a mentor, and now a friend. His tireless work ethic, unwavering moral compass, and selfless leadership remains the finest example in this industry. I am grateful to Ron and Linda Wellman for being like parents to me; encouraging me through some of the most challenging times in my career, and for being some of the first to text or call to celebrate the high points! Their love for their Creator, each other, and their family - and for those of us adopted into the family - is a shining example of keeping what is important at the center of it all. This industry is better for Ron Wellman, and I am grateful for all he has done to make it and us better.”

Ron Wellman and John Currie

- Samantha Huge | AD, William & Mary

“Ron Wellman has been my long-time mentor and is responsible for everything I have in my professional life - the most important of which is the ethical foundation that has sustained me over the last 25 years.”

“Ron Wellman always led by example. I was a young intern and administrator during my tenure at WFU and as such had little direct interaction with Ron. But that did not stop me from learning so many valuable lessons regarding leadership that I still implore today because of how he carried himself and led the Demon Deacon Athletic family.”

- John Currie (‘93) | AD, Wake Forest University

- Hunter Yurachek | AD, University of Arkansas

“The five years or so that I spent learning directly under Ron were truly the most enjoyable years of my professional career (at least the ones where I wasn’t throwing a baseball). Ron was so adept at using every opportunity to learn and to teach, whether it was in the car driving to visit Arnie in Latrobe, in the press box at the Couch or even in the stands of Spry Stadium during a soccer game.

Ron had an uncanny ability to make you feel that he valued your input but also make it clear that the ultimate decision would be his to make- but he always took the time to circle back and explain why he had made that decision.

As I continue on my path as an AD, I often reflect on the thought processes that Ron would use to arrive at his decision and find myself emulating so much of what I learned from him.

The accomplishments and growth of the athletics department under his watchful eyes is staggering – the hiring & retaining of some of the most talented coaches in the country, the facilities, and the championships are obvious. What is less obvious is the manner in which Ron led the department- it was never about him, he never promoted himself, and was always quick to give credit to others and prioritized the student-athlete accomplishments first.”

Ron Wellman and Mike Buddie

- Mike Buddie (‘93) | AD, Army West Point

“Ron has been a model for myself and many aspiring and current athletic directors on how to handle the rigors of this job with class and dignity. I will be forever grateful for the time he spent with me offering advice and guidance on my journey from Wake Forest student-athlete to my current role as AD at Georgia Southern University.”

- Tom Kleinlein (‘93) | AD, Georgia Southern University “Ron was a perfect mentor and role model for me and so many others. I will forever remember and appreciate the vast opportunities and responsibilities that he provided me at an early stage in my career. For example, not many people would allow a 26-year old to serve as tournament director for an NCAA Basketball Regional (at the time the youngest tournament manager in NCAA history), but Ron Wellman did that for me.

He had confidence in me and from that day forward until today--I have always wanted to make sure I made Ron proud. I have never forgotten what he did for me and, as a result, I have always tried to pay that forward to the many young administrators that I have worked with in providing them opportunities to demonstrate their abilities also.

(Left to right) Tom Kleinlein, Hunter Yurachek, Joel Nielsen, and Michael Kelly

Whenever I think of Ron Wellman, I think of class and grace. He won with class. He lost with class despite hating losing more than anything. And he handled even the most difficult circumstances with amazing grace.”

- Michael Kelly | AD, University of South Florida

“It was a true pleasure to work with Ron Wellman for eight years, and the impact he made on my career led to the success I enjoy today. Ron transformed Wake Forest University Athletics, but the professional development he inspired in his staff, I believe, is his greatest legacy.

Two important lessons that I learned from Ron and utilize everyday are: 1) As a leader, don’t race to make a decision. Take the time to listen to the input of your staff, ask questions, gain feedback from donors, reflect, and debate. There is great value in that time investment. You don’t win by making fast decisions, but instead winners make transformational decisions; and 2) People....your staff are the most important asset of the Athletic Department. As the AD, it’s your job to coach, care for, and develop your staff/team. When you can get staff to grow their leadership skill set, the power of the organization is unlimited. Ask yourself everyday, ‘How am I developing my team?’.”

- Dan Hauser | AD, High Point University

“When I made the decision to pursue a career in collegiate athletic administration, my head football coach (Dan Runkle, Minnesota State) told me, “If you want to be successful in this business, you need to work for Ron Wellman”. From that day in 1989, it was my goal to work for Ron and I was fortunate in 1991 to get the offer to be an Assistant Athletic Director at Illinois State, and later working 8 years under Ron’s leadership at Wake Forest. Now in my 20th year as an athletic director, I’m proud to call Ron my mentor and friend, and I give Coach Runkle credit for the best advice I’ve ever received!

My relationship with Ron, both personal and professional, has had an enormous impact on my life and on any success I’ve been able to achieve.”

(Left to right) Hunter Yurachek, Joel Nielsen, Ron Wellman, Michael Kelly and John Currie

- Joel Nielsen | AD, Kent State University

“Ron is the consummate leader and mentor. In my time working with Ron I found him to be an extraordinary and skillful administrator who combined his coaching background with exceptional managerial abilities to lead, empower, mentor, motivate and develop a staff as well as an entire department. Ron did so with total accountability and compassion and is one of the fairest and most honest men that I know. It was always clear in his decision making processes that he had the best interests of the organizational enterprise as his top priority. I learned so much from Ron and being around the Wellman family in general and am extremely grateful for the opportunity that Ron provided to me, Buffy and our two sons, Jack & Joe. Intercollegiate athletics needs more people and leaders like Ron Wellman. His presence will be missed greatly and his impact and legacy should be celebrated to the highest.”

- Perk Weisenberger | AD, Ferris State University “When I think of Ron, I always think of what he has taught us, and me, most importantly. And how I’ve used it whether I was a player, husband, father, manager, broadcaster, or whatever I’ve done in my life.

He taught me the importance of believing in people. Ron saw me play one game in high school at the end of May and gave me a scholarship. He said, ‘Whatever you do, don’t sign before you come and see me.’ He saw me play one game and that changed my life forever, just on one game. I’ve used that so much whether I was a catcher or manager, the importance of believing in people. Sometimes people have a hard time believing in themselves.

Ron had the ability and taught us how to push ourselves. He pushed us to levels that we never thought we could be pushed to achieve a goal, but he did it with kindness and love. I’m always thinking of the coaches that work you the hardest and a lot of times you think it’s for selfish reasons. But it wasn’t for selfish reasons.

He was trying to make us better people and better men.

Ron taught me the importance of having character in everything you do.

Everything!

He taught us the importance of bringing teams together for one common goal no matter what the goal was. “We” were always greater than “me.”

He taught me the importance of always being there for each other. He was always there for all of us. No matter if I was a 19-year old boy who had just lost my mom. If I was a 31-year old man who was confused when he was traded to New York. If I was a 45-year old man fired from the Marlins. He was always there for us. And he helped us through difficult times.

What sticks out to me so much about Ron is how we all continue to seek his advice.

It’s truly amazing in everything that we do. Our careers, raising kids, we all seek his advice.

I think that during the most difficult times of my life, whether it was losing my mother, retiring (as a player), losing my job with the Marlins, losing my job with the Yankees, Ron was the first person I always called. Because I knew I could count on him for everything. Kindness, great advice, love, truth, honesty. I could count on it. And I still will continue to count on it. He’s a wonderful man that we all have so much respect for. He is ‘our

guy.’ The best way I can put it in my own terms, without getting emotional, because I just remember when my mom died, he was the guy who was there for me. He did everything for me and my family. I was in the Cape Cod League playing baseball and I drove home to see my mom take her last breath. Lo and behold, Ron had most of the team at the funeral and that’s not easy to do. Because he rallied around all of us so much, we have learned to rally around each other. The best thing that I can say, Ron is the best example that any of us could have ever hoped for of what it means to be a man.”

- Joe Girardi | Northwestern ‘86

THE WELLMAN FAMILY Barbara Bush once said, “When all the dust has settled and all the crowds are gone, the things that matter are faith, family and friends.”

The Wellmans personify that quote in every way. They are a large family who values faith, friendships and each other, above all else. The Wellman family includes Ron and his wife Linda, three daughters and three sons-in-law – Angie and Tim Lynde; Nicole and Kevin Rice; and Melissa and Ben Norman – and 10 grandchildren – Connor, Riley and McKay (Angie and Tim); Cole, Sam, Anna Kate and Molly (Nicole and Kevin); and Miller, Emme and Hank (Melissa and Ben).

Ron’s family has not only been a source of strength and support throughout his career, but they have also loved and nurtured countless staff members, coaches and student-athletes over the years. Anyone who has had the privilege of getting to know Linda and the rest of the Wellman family undoubtedly understands what it feels like to be cared for, supported and appreciated.

“Their love for their Creator, each other, and their family - and for those of us adopted into the family - is a shining example of keeping what is important at the center of it all.”

- Samantha Huge “Linda Wellman was a mother figure to all of us when we were in college. She opened her house to us when we couldn’t go home for a holiday; she had all of us over for dinner. She is someone that my wife continues to call for advice. Their whole family has always been there for everyone who has ever played for Ron or known him. And Linda is a special lady. We all love her as much as we love him.”

- Joe Girardi While Ron may be stepping away from the often thrilling, sometimes challenging and always busy daily grind of collegiate athletic administration, he is stepping into the open arms of the family he cherishes. With them, his days will be full of quality time with the grandkids - going to baseball and soccer games, swim meets and watching gymnastics - traveling with Linda, philanthropic pursuits and countless other activities, but most of all, they will be full of love, support, respect and faith.

Cheers to a wonderful retirement Ron! We know we’ll see you at one of our games soon.

Go Deacs!

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