The McDaniel Free Press » Sports

Ground Broken for New Stadium

Matthew Arnold, Co-Sports Editor — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 18:59:43 +0000

With the call of “let’s dig in,” College President Dr. Roger Casey led a group of students, coaches, and trustee in breaking ground for McDaniel College’s new athletic stadium.

The new Kenneth R. Gill Stadium, which will replace the existing Scott Bair Stadium, “will provide first class seating that showcases the academic ridgeline of our campus,” according to Mr. Martin K. P. Hill, Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

Mr. Hill reported in his remarks at the ceremony that the stadium committee has raised over $7.7 million in gifts and pledges toward the construction of the new stadium. $2.25 million of that total came from a donation given by the committee’s leader, Mr. Kenneth R. Gill.

According to Mr. Hill, the new stadium had been a part of the Board of Trustees’ campus master plan, approved in 2003.

Nearly a decade later, on the windy, sun-splashed afternoon of February 3, the plan moved one step closer to reality.

At the ceremony, Dr. Casey remarked, “today’s event is the culmination of much teamwork and much visionary leadership from my predecessor, Dr. Joan Develin Coley,” and called the new stadium’s construction a “high point” for the College.

In his speech, Mr. Gill, who graduated from Western Maryland College in 1961, spoke of friendships he made at the college that lasted a lifetime. Mr. Gill said “wherever my life has taken me, no place feels as close to my heart as this college. Whether you call it Western Maryland College, McDaniel College, or simply The Hill, I have benefitted from the lessons learned from the faculty, the coaches, and my classmates.”

“Today, I feel grateful to give back to them.”

Construction on the new Kenneth R. Gill Stadium is scheduled to be completed by next football season.

For more details on the stadium project, here is an article from November that outlines the financial aspects and design of the stadium.

Students, Faculty Not Seeing Eye to Eye over Stenciling Projects

Cullen Murray-Kemp, Co-Sports Editor — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:21:23 +0000

After 15 years of training camp here at McDaniel College, the Baltimore Ravens decided it would be best for the organization to leave the College for more suitable training facilities at their base camp in Owings Mills.

The feeling around campus is bitter-sweet—left with many fond memories of the sweat drenched football icons Ray Lewis and Ed Reed battling to prepare their team for upcoming football seasons.

In what seemed like a parting gift, the Raven’s organization “painted McDaniel Purple” with a dozen or so Ravens stencils placed on the campus’ sidewalks.

Marcus Charbonnet, Ravens Manager of Marketing and Fan Development, was in charge of the “Paint the town purple” project, and first proposed the idea to McDaniel Director of Conference Services, Mary Jo Colbert.

The idea did not stay in her hands for long. According to Colbert, “the stenciling proposal wound up on President Casey’s desk in no time.”

When asked what she first thought of when hearing of the “Paint the town purple” proposal, Colbert said she couldn’t help but think of the bunny incident last Spring, when a group of McDaniel students stenciled bunnies all over campus in what they called “creative street art” for a class project. The students saw harsh sanctions for the act, including disciplinary probation, apology letters, fines, and community service.

To say the very least, the Ravens stenciling has prompted unrest among many McDaniel students.

Noah Patton, junior political science major was involved with the now become infamous bunny incident last year. Like Colbert, Patton sees similarities between the two stencil projects, but calls the Ravens stencils “guerilla advertising.”

Patton said the school had commercial interest, whereas he feels the bunnies were just street art and a form of expression.

When asked about how he feels about the current state of the college and how administration interacts with its students, Patton responded “It (McDaniel) sure doesn’t feel like a liberal arts college.”

Another student who was involved with last years bunny incident, but asked to remain anonymous, spoke about the Ravens in relation to the bunny stencils: “It does sting a bit that the school is backing this outside organization but I was kicked off campus and treated like a criminal.”

The student continued, “I feel like the gap between the administration and students only seems to be expanding and McDaniel is loosing that small school community that drew me here in the first place.”

Yet, both students and administration admit that there are significant differences between the two stencil projects.

Colbert spoke of how the students used a paint that ended up not being water salable, and how the Ravens have done this project elsewhere and are more familiar with the paint they use.

Vice President for Administration and Finance, Ethan Seidel spoke about the seemingly similar projects. “The Ravens stencils and the bunnies are not alike. I would be OK with students stenciling on campus if they asked permission as where to put the stencils and went through the normal channels.”

“It wasn’t that students did the stencils, but it was about the damage that the stencils caused,” continued Seidel.

When asked about financial reasoning for the administration to permit and promote Ravens advertisement, Seidel said there are no financial perks of allowing the Ravens stenciling for “the Ravens are not coming back.”

An interview with Paul Moyer, Athletic Director

Matthew Arnold, Co-Sports Editor — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 01:20:20 +0000

The following is what I transcribed from my interview with Paul Moyer:

On the timing of the announcements:

“They didn’t resign on one day. We don’t talk about personnel actions at the College, but the bottom line is you have conversations with your entire department, over the course of years, but in my case over the course of my first year here. I think all the coaches understand where we’re going, what we’re doing, in some cases, it’s not going to work out with individual coaches in their personal lives and their own goals and aspirations and, you know, this is the end of the fall season, so that’s when these things normally happen. It may look like it’s all on one day, but they were not all on one day.”

Moyer said, in response to the fact that the volume and timing of the decisions were catching people off guard “that’s jumping to a conclusion that isn’t there.”

“The coaches made decisions on different days, even though we packaged the announcements together, so from our perspective, it was better to put them all together for the public rather than one at a time at a time. To just continue that process over weeks and weeks doesn’t make sense.”

On why the football coach’s resignation was announced independently of the other coaches:

“I think that ultimately this is probably driven by external media markets. I don’t put any less interest on our women’s soccer players or our volleyball athletes than I do with our football athletes, and I’ve talked to all the athletes and I think they understand that we put as much emphasis on their programs as we do on football.”

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This is a developing story, and if anybody has any information, opinions, or questions, please comment here or email freepress@mcdaniel.edu.

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Three Seasoned McDaniel Coaches Resign Without Warning

Cullen Murray-Kemp, Co-Sports Editor — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 01:10:25 +0000

This evening at 6 p.m. McDaniel students received a notice that the McDaniel athletic department took a big hit to its staff. Carole Molloy, Bryan Shumaker and Tin Keating “stepped down” from their head coaching positions here on the Hill.

Keating leaves McDaniel after his 19^th season coaching the Green Terror football squad. Keating certainly will be regarded in the upper echelon of not only McDaniel football coaches, but of any coaches in Centennial Conference history. His seven conference championships (most in McDaniel history) and five straight NCAA playoff births (1997-2001) are sure to earn Keating a spot in the McDaniel athletic Hall of Fame.

In an email to McDaniel students first year athletic director Paul Moyer said, “Coach Keating has exemplified the values of all our coaches in guiding students through their educational journeys on the Hill. We thank him for that service.”

In another email from Moyer to students he spoke of the resignations of Women’s soccer coach Bryan Shumaker and women’s volleyball coach Carole Molloy, “Both Carole and Bryan have exemplified the values of outstanding coaching leadership and have played immeasurable roles in guiding hundreds of students in their educational journeys on the Hill.”

Molloy, another 19 year veteran coach at McDaniel has also led her women’s volleyball team to multiple centennial championships (2), and has enjoyed a successful coaching career at here at her alma mater.

Shumaker has coached the McDaniel women’s soccer team for the past five seasons and over them has guided the girls to 18 victories.

None of the three coaches will be returning to coach on the Hill next season.

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This is a developing story, and if anybody has any information, opinions, or questions, please comment here or email freepress@mcdaniel.edu.

Moyer takes on the Green Terror as the new Athletic Director

Catherine Frondorf, Staff Reporter — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 13:00:20 +0000

McDaniel College recently hired a new Athletic Director, Paul Moyer, whom I had the opportunity to interview. Moyer, from our initial interaction, comes off as a genuine people person. He has a positive energy that is uplifting, an air of excitement that draws you in, and a focus that I would attribute not only to his years of working as an Athletic Director, but also to his years as an athlete and coach.

Moyer, who played both soccer and baseball since youth and though his college years, also served as the Men’s Soccer coach at the University of Chicago, Manhattanville College, and Catholic University, where he coached Women’s Golf and Soccer.

Moyer contributed time and skill at the professional level as well. He spent time with the Washington Bullets (now the Washington Wizards), Team America Soccer, and served on the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee. After having worked in both fields, Moyer says that there is no other experience comparable to working at the college level, and we are fortunate to have him.

It is clear from our interview that Moyer has plans to create change within the Athletic Department and although exact details were not disclosed, it is apparent that we are heading in a positive direction. When asked how he plans to effectively create positive change at McDaniel, Moyer noted that it is not just one person that creates change but is instead an entity of people, such as a community.

McDaniel is not just a college, but also a community in which Moyer says that athletics are seen as part of the educational experience.

So what then is the value of an athletic program to a school? Moyer explained that athletics affect not just the students in our little community on the McDaniel campus, but also within the citizens of Westminster, and even beyond that to our alumni all across the country.

For those who do not play sports and disagree, Moyer illustrated the enormous role athletics play in the lives of student athletes and non-student athletes alike. Athletics not only help students to graduate, but the department itself is a form of public relations, through fundraising and clinics for local kids, like the Special Olympics. Local soccer clubs who sometimes participate with student athletes also help build bridges to the local community. Additionally, the sports are a source of revenue, which help provide funds in areas and departments outside that of the Athletic Department. Like a ripple in the water, everyone is affected and connected.

“You can see it through the pride our students have in wearing Green Terror shirts, cheering on our football team at home games by tailgating in the masses up on the hill; there is a uniqueness and closeness about our college that separates us from the rest and makes us so special,” said Moyer.

For those who might not feel so connected, I asked Moyer how he might encourage students to get involved in our athletic community or how athletes can reach out to the student body.

“There is a way for every student to connect on campus and even if you do not wish to participate in varsity sports, which are a huge commitment and very demanding, there are also intramural sports,” explained Moyer.

This is a great opportunity to get with friends, to be active, to reduce stress, and have fun in our fantastic facilities, he said. “A healthy mind plus a healthy body equals a sound mind.”

You don’t have to be a varsity athlete to understand Moyer’s three things to keep in mind: “Opportunity. Responsibility. Commitment.” As a varsity player, you have the opportunity to experience something special. There is no other experience like the intercollegiate experience, Moyer says. So what makes it so special?

“You live and die with every moment you share with your teammates: meals, classes, life experiences, figuring out the future, hardships, hours on the bus together going to and from games, wins, losses (on the field and off the field), and you got to have teammates that support you. The shared experiences are special, they don’t fall by the wayside, you’ll have them for the rest of your life, and not everyone gets to experience that.”

“That is what makes the experience so unique because unlike professional sports teams, there is a competition for jobs, it’s a completely different perspective and often times you’re a competitor, not a teammate,” said Moyer.

According to Moyer, that is why the intercollegiate experience is the ultimate experience, and no one can take that away from you.

A few fun sport-related facts about Paul Moyer:

His favorite sport movies: Coach Carter, Victory, Miracle, Remember the Titans, Glory Road, and The Natural (even though he thinks it’s kind of corny.)

Professional athletes he is most inspired by: Wes Unseld (played basketball for the Washington Bullets), Curtis Pride (played baseball for the Yankees; he is also deaf), and Kyle Rote Jr.( who is a personal inspiration for Moyer).

Favorite professional teams: Orioles, Senators, Redskins, Ravens, and both the Men’s and Women’s National Soccer Teams.

Greatest sports stories of all time: the Underdog stories- Miracle; Jessie Owns- with Hitler watching, U.S Men’s soccer beating England in the 30’s, and the Saints winning the Superbowl after Katrina- special times with special teams willed on by the entire city.

Out-Pick Matt: Weeks 7+8

Matthew Arnold, Co-Sports Editor and Dan Lamond, Staff Writer — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 13:00:58 +0000

In “Out-Pick Matt,” football fans try to predict the outcomes of National Football League games better than McDaniel Free Press Co-Sports Editor Matthew Arnold. Again for this edition, the challenger is fellow Free Press sports writer Dan Lamond.

Week 7

San Diego Chargers at New York Jets:

Dan says: Jets. The Jets defense will have to compensate for Mark Sanchez’s lack of offensive production and escape with a narrow victory.

Matt says: Chargers. There are very few quarterbacks with enough talent to elude the Jets’ stifling defense, but Phillip Rivers is one of them.

Houston Texans at Tennessee Titans:

Dan says: Titans. This game will come down to a battle of running backs, with Chris Johnson edging out Arian Foster for a bigger day to give the Titans the win.

Matt says: Texans. I’m still not completely sold on Matt Hasselbeck and Tennessee this year, although Houston will have to work hard to make up for the loss of Andre Johnson if he is still injured.

Washington Redskins at Carolina Panthers:

Dan says: Panthers. Cam Newton will pass for another 300+ yards and connect with Steve Smith multiple times to give the Panthers a win over the Redskins.

Matt says: Redskins. Washington is playing way over their heads this year, and with the NFC East surprisingly wide open this year, I think we’re in for a surprise in Carolina.

Chicago Bears vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (at Wembley Stadium in London):

Dan says: Bears. Brian Urlacher and the Bears defense will be too much for Josh Freeman to overcome and the Bears will walk out of London victorious.

Matt says: Buccaneers. Tampa Bay had a rough game in San Francisco and will have a tough game with New Orleans, so I would look for them to rebound against the Bears in Wembley.

Seattle Seahawks at Cleveland Browns:

Dan says: Browns. Peyton Hillis will prove to be too much for the Seahawks defense to contain and he will lead the Browns to a home victory over the Seahawks.

Matt says: Browns. The Seahawks, in traditional NFC West tradition, will follow up a big win in New York with a lackluster effort in Cleveland.

Atlanta Falcons at Detroit Lions:

Dan says: Lions. The Lions terrifying defense will shut down Matt Ryan and company while Calvin Johnson will continue his impressive touchdown streak to give the Lions a “W.”

Matt says: Lions. Matt Ryan has looked underwhelming so far this season, and the Lions are still proving to be a force to be reckoned with.

Denver Broncos at Miami Dolphins:

Dan says: Broncos. Tim Tebow will give the Broncos a gutsy effort to lead the team he recently took over to a win on the road against the Dolphins.

Matt says: Broncos. The Dolphins will be honoring Tim Tebow and his Florida Gators…before his first start for the opposition. Don’t be surprised if this is the last game for Tony Sparano as the coach in Miami.

Pittsburgh Steelers at Arizona Cardinals:

Dan says: Steelers. The Steelers defense will shut down Arizona’s Kevin Kolb and Larry Fitzgerald at home leading them a victory in the Desert.

Matt says: Steelers. Kevin Kolb and the Cardinals have been a major disappointment this year, look for Pittsburgh to roll with ease.

Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland Raiders:

Dan says: Raiders. The Raiders will continue their impressive season over the injury plagued Chiefs and win yet another game at home.

Matt says: Raiders. Speaking of disappointments, the Chiefs have rebounded from early futility with wins over Minnesota and Indianapolis. Look for this trend to end in the Black Hole.

Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings:

Dan says: Packers. Aaron Rodgers will continue to light up the scoreboard against the offensively challenged Vikings and give the Packers a win over their rivals.

Matt says: Packers. The Packers have five wide receivers who would start on just about any NFL team, and one of the most electrifying tight ends in the game; the Vikings’ defense have blown three sizable fourth quarter leads. This should be a fairly easy win for Green Bay

St. Louis Rams at Dallas Cowboys:

Dan says: Cowboys. This season has not been too kind to the Cowboys with their tough schedule thus far, but a visit from the Rams at home could be a major turning point in their season.

Matt says: Cowboys. The Giants, Ravens, and Redskins agree, there’s nothing quite like the 2011 Rams to cure what ails you. Look for Tony Romo to get back on track against St. Louis in Jerryworld.

Indianapolis Colts at New Orleans Saints:

Dan says: Saints. Drew Brees will continue his offensive tear against the Peyton Manning-less Colts, who have struggled to find their offense during Manning’s absence.

Matt says: Saints. I feel bad for NBC, seeing as this is not the clash of the titans they selected before the season. Look for the Saints to run roughshod over the Colts’ defense, and the Saints’ D to give Curtis Painter another rough day at the office.

Baltimore Ravens at Jacksonville Jaguars:

Dan says: Ravens. The Ravens will walk all over the Jaguars on both sides of the football during the primetime Monday night game of the week.

Matt says: Ravens. The theme of national networks regretting their decisions for this week will continue, as the Ravens should roll over Blaine Gabbert and Jacksonville.

Byes: Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, New England Patriots, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers

Week 8

New Orleans Saints at St. Louis Rams:

Dan says: Saints

Matt says: Saints

Jacksonville Jaguars at Houston Texans:

Dan says: Texans

Matt says: Texans

Arizona Cardinals at Baltimore Ravens:

Dan says: Ravens

Matt says: Ravens

Minnesota Vikings at Carolina Panthers:

Dan says: Panthers

Matt says: Panthers

Indianapolis Colts at Tennessee Titans:

Dan says: Titans

Matt says: Titans

Miami Dolphins at New York Giants:

Dan says: Dolphins

Matt says: Giants

Detroit Lions at Denver Broncos:

Dan says: Lions

Matt says: Lions

Washington Redskins at Buffalo Bills:

Dan says: Bills

Matt says: Bills

Cincinnati Bengals at Seattle Seahawks:

Dan says: Seahawks

Matt says: Bengals

New England Patriots at Pittsburgh Steelers:

Dan says: Patriots

Matt says: Patriots

Cleveland Browns at San Francisco 49ers:

Dan says: 49ers

Matt says: 49ers

Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles:

Dan says: Eagles

Matt says: Cowboys

San Diego Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs:

Dan says: Chargers

Matt says: Chargers

Byes: Atlanta Falcons, Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, New York Jets, Oakland Raiders, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Surprises in the NFL

Ned Winand, Staff Writer — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 13:00:47 +0000

There are no certainties in the NFL, and so this season has been a roller coaster ride for anyone trying to predict the outcomes. This season has seen perennial losers become the class acts of their division and the “dream team” become the bottom of the crazy NFC East. Due to the lockout, many experts predicted offenses would be behind defenses in terms of readiness as a result of the lack of preparation. These experts are now eating their words as offenses like the Patriots are on a record setting pace. Tom Brady is on pace to throw for 5,996.8 yards this season which would crush the single season passing record Dan Marino set in 1984. Tom Brady’s favorite target Wes Welker is on pace to have 2,368 yards this season. That also would shatter the record of most receiving yards in a season set by Jerry Rice for 1,848 yards in 1995.

Buffalo Bills: There has been no team more surprising this year than the Buffalo Bills. Perhaps the most iconic play from the Buffalo Bills 2010 season was the Stevie Johnson drop against the Steelers week 12 in an overtime loss 19-16. However, this season’s 4-1 start shouldn’t be as surprising as everyone seems to think it is. The Bills had many games last year (including games against the Steelers and the Ravens) in which they should have won. The Bills’ offseason was marked by defensive additions like the number three overall pick in the 2011 draft DT Marcel Dareus. Free agent additions included Nick Barnett, Kirk Morrison, and 2010 midseason pickup Shawne “Lights Out” Merriman. Ultimately, however, it is the team’s continuous growth under head coach Chan Gailey’s system along with excellent play from Fred Jackson that has this young team vying for the AFC East title.

Detroit Lions: The Lions have been one of the league’s worst teams for the last decade. However, like the Tampa Bay Rays showed several years ago, continuous losing can lead to a surplus of high draft picks and thus talent. The combination of former number 1 overall pick Matthew Stafford and former number 2 overall pick Calvin Johnson has been historic so far this year combining for 9 touchdowns. The atmosphere during what many have called the “most important game in the history of Ford Field” against their division rival, the Bears, in a 24-13 win was evident even through the television screen. The Detroit Lions are 5-0 for the first time since 1956, so calling this start anything less than historic would be doing the Lions a disservice.

Philadelphia Eagles (the so-called “Dream Team”): The City of Brotherly Love was looking good only a few months ago. The Phillies were well on their way to having the best regular season record in the major leagues and the Eagles were having an outstanding offseason. Things quickly changed as the Phillies got knocked out of the playoffs by the Cardinals, and the Eagles are 1-4. This 1-4 start by the Eagles has sport talk shows around the country debating whether or not it’s time for head coach Andy Reid to go. The most controversial decision Andy Reid made in the offseason was to promote his offensive line coach Juan Castillo to defensive coordinator and bring in Jim Washburn to coach his defensive line. The additions of Dominique-Rodgers-Cromartie and Nnamdi Asomugha via trade and free agency to a team that hosted the defensive powerhouse Asante Samuel seemed to create one of the best cornerback groups in football. However, the main issue with the Eagles has been a lack of gap discipline and poor tackling, which have helped create the 30^th ranked rushing defense in the league. The defensive deficiencies of the Eagles are being put squarely on the back of Juan Castillo and thus Andy Reid. In a “roller coaster” division their chances are still there, but they have to beat a surprisingly good Redskins team in a tough Sunday matchup in D.C.

Honorable Headlines

Washington Redskins: The Redskins came into the season considered by the “experts” one of the worst teams of the league. After starting the season 28^th on ESPN’s power rankings they now find themselves 10^th on the rankings and first in the NFC East at 3-1.

San Francisco 49ers: Jim Harbaugh has his team playing hard and currently finds himself atop of the NFC West at 4-1. The 49ers, like the Redskins, are winning with consistency starting with their defense, which currently ranks 4^th against the run. Jim Harbaugh has helped Alex Smith play more consistently this year and has the 49ers vying for the NFC West title.

Pittsburg Steelers: The Steelers have historically been known for their defense, specifically against the run. The 3-2 Steelers rank 16^th in the NFL against the run; and are giving up over 100 yards per game. The Steelers are one of the oldest teams in the NFL, and these recent struggles have led experts to believe that they are “too old”. The Steelers defense has to play better against the run for the remainder of the season in order to continue their dominant ways.

These few NFL teams have surprised so far this year and perhaps will continue to do so for the rest of the year. Will the Buffalo Bills remain contenders in the tough AFC East? Will the Eagles turn around their season starting this Sunday against the NFC East leading Redskins? All these questions are interesting and now, thanks to the resurgence of the Lions, the Thanksgiving game against the Packers looks like a classic matchup between two explosive offenses.

Swim Team Looks to an Optimistic Season

Anna Pleskunas, Staff Writer — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 12:00:56 +0000

The Green Terror swim team gets ready for an exciting season! Freshman are seated in front row, from left to right: Stevie Hoyt, Meg Protzman, Casey McCole, Lexie Jacobs, and Jon Hartzel.

The McDaniel swim team is at a turning point in its history. The change in camaraderie, goals, and confidence on the team is palpable. After seeing great success last season, the team finished only eight points away from the school’s highest score at the championship meet.

Jeff Heistand, who started as the Green Terror swim team assistant coach in 2001, had his first season as head coach last year. Now being well into his second season it’s apparent that he has high expectations for his team.

“If all goes well and as planned we’ll have won a conference championship in 5 years,” Heistand explains.

“I think the team has begun to start to believe that they can win, and beat anyone. And this year they have begun the season with that confidence” said Heistand.

The new season brings promising new freshmen faces to the team. Heistand says of freshman on the men’s side, “Jon Hartzel comes in faster than our school record in the 100 back which not only helps us in the individual event but also in the 200 medley relays. Stevie Hoyt has been training very, very well.”

The Women’s team also gained three new members, all of whom Heistand expects to be valuable swimmers this season. Heistand says Lexie Jacobs “will be a point scorer at champs, and may be sneaking onto one or two of the A relays.” Meg Protzman and Casey McCole are also already showing real potential early in the season.

The freshmen this year are quite ambitious individuals. Jon Hartzel hopes to make nationals this season in the 100 backstroke. Coming in with a time of 54.95 and the nationals cut being 50.7 seconds, qualifying will be no easy feat for Jon. Stevie Hoyt says “Making nationals is a goal for the next four years.”

Casey McCole wants to break six minutes in the 500 freestyle. But with a good coach and hard training the team believes they are capable of any goal.

“I swim because I just find this different love for it and respect it more than any other sport,” she said.

Lexie Jacobs explains that swimming is challenging “because swimming is not just physical, but mental.”

“Jeff has goals in mind for each of us individually that when he first tells us we think are completely out of the ballpark and unreachable, but I think through the years with him we have learned to trust him and trust ourselves and know that we can actually do it,” said senior women’s captain Rachel Walega.

With Jeff Heistand being their head coach for only half of the seniors’ collegiate swimming career, it’s clear they have gained a lot from his coaching.

“The team atmosphere has become more serious. We still have fun but we are much more goal-oriented,” says senior men’s captain Jason Harder.

Coach Heistand is different from previous coaches the team members have had.

Hartzel explains, “He’s a lot more focused on adding in weight training and he’s very good at all the strokes, he has a good focus on all of them.”

The swim team’s training is very well-rounded, between conditioning workouts outside of the water and an important focus on developing good technique in all the strokes, each swimmer is becoming more diverse in their skills.

Heistand believes in his team as well as in the work that he must put in for the team to be able to achieve.

“Swimming is a great sport because it’s a skill sport and hard work is the great equalizer and that is one of the reasons why I feel like we can win the conference, because I’m willing to work hard,” he said.

The McDaniel College swim team is not only about being strong athletes. When talking to the freshman on the team, they all described the strength of the team as being closeness between teammates.

“The team is more or less like a family,” answered freshman Andrew Widmann.

Coach Jeff Heistand also used the word “unity” to describe the relationship between the men’s and women’s team. The team bond outside of the pool is also great motivation for the team during training.

“When you are training with people that are doing that same work that you’re doing and finding success, you begin to believe in yourself and it’s contagious,” said Heistand.

The biggest problem the team has is numbers. With 18 spaces available to both the men’s and women’s team at champs, point scoring is falling short without all the spaces filled. Recruitment is a huge factor in this, and the team has become much more involved with recruits since Heistand became head coach.

“There are still some things that are somewhat bothersome, take for instance student tours [where] the pool is not part of the tour. If we were taken seriously it would be [part of the tour],” explains Heistand.

With some support from the McDaniel College community it is apparent that the sky could be the limit for this swim team.

Intramurals Open Playing Field for All

Dan Lamond, Staff Writer — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Intramural sports are a way for students to keep active during a grueling semester and offer them a pleasant escape from schoolwork. Some students enjoy playing sports, but cannot give the time required to play at a varsity level, while others simply take pleasure in being active and having fun with their friends. Intramural sports provide these types of students the perfect opportunity to be active without committing an extensive amount of time.

While the focus of intramurals is having fun and staying active, this is not to say that the level of play is not high or intense. Intramural referee Ben Grant says, “the stakes are very high even though it’s just intramurals and people are playing for fun. There have been times when I’ve had to separate players when things are getting a little too heated.”

Intramural sports evoke the same emotions in players as varsity sports, while still allowing them to spend a majority of their time focused on schoolwork. Sophomore Eli Fisher explains, “it’s nice not having to go to practice everyday, but I can still play sports at a high level, while having fun with my friends.” Many other students feel the same way and are thankful for the opportunity intramurals give them.

Contrary to popular belief, intramural sports are not just limited to students; alumni and faculty members are encouraged to participate too. There are several divisions for each of the sports offered, which include coed, A league and B league. The sports offered vary for each of the two semesters. Currently, in the fall semester, the intramural sports offered include, 4 vs. 4 basketball, flag football, floor hockey, a golf tournament, outdoor soccer and a volleyball tournament. During the spring semester, 5 vs. 5 basketball, golf, indoor soccer, softball and volleyball will be offered for the McDaniel community to participate in.

Visit the McDaniel intramural website (http://www.mcdanielathletics.com/fitnessRec/intramurals/index), where you can find sign up sheets, rules, information related to intramurals and news from the fitness center.

After Wild Finish, Baseball Postseason Begins

Dan Lamond, Staff Reporter — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 17:19:11 +0000

The 2011 MLB playoffs have finally arrived, but not before some late drama on the final day of the season. Baseball fans witnessed two of the biggest collapses in the history of the game with both the Boston Red Sox and the Atlanta Braves failing to hold on to sizable leads in the wild card during the final month. Each of the eight remaining playoff bound teams have earned the right to play into October and all have decent chance to be crowned champions this year.

American League

Detroit Tigers: The Tigers have been led all season long by ace Justin Verlander who compiled a very impressive 24-5 record this season. Following Verlander in game two will be surprise trade pick-up Doug Fister. Since his Tigers debut on August 3, Fister has gone 8-1 with a microscopic 1.79 ERA. However, the Tigers are known for their offense led by consistent slugger and American League batting title winner, Miguel Cabrera as well as Victor Martinez.

New York Yankees: The Yankees battled injuries all season, but still managed to end with the best record in the American League. With an injury to Phil Hughes at the beginning of the season, the Yankees have fought through with a very thin starting rotation behind ace CC Sabathia. However, the Yankees high power offense has kept them strong all season with Curtis Granderson, Mark Teixeira and Robinson Cano. The Yankees expect Alex Rodriguez to play regularly in the playoffs after returning from an injury, which will also boost their already slugging offense.

Tampa Bay Rays: The Rays trailed the Boston Red Sox by nine games going into the final month, but with a strong last month and a horrific Boston collapse, the Rays found their way into the playoffs on the final day of the regular season. The Rays have been a hot team and have potential to make noise in the playoffs behind ace David Price as well as sluggers Evan Longoria, B.J. Upton and rookie sensation Desmond Jennings.

Texas Rangers: The Rangers put together another solid season after they lost to the Giants in the World Series last year. Many people were worried how the Rangers pitching staff would fare after losing Cliff Lee, but C.J. Wilson and Alexi Ogando stepped up to make Lee’s departure feel unnoticed. The Rangers have a deadly offense with Josh Hamilton, Ian Kinsler, Elvis Andrus, Adrian Beltre and Mike Napoli. With the consistent pitching that they had all season, and if the offense is able to keep pace, the Rangers are poised for another late postseason run.

National League

Arizona Diamondbacks: The Diamondbacks surprised a lot of people this season as most sports writers and fans alike entirely wrote them off. However pitching duo Ian Kennedy and Daniel Hudson kept the Diamondbacks alive all season. The Diamondbacks offense is often sporadic but MVP candidate Justin Upton has been consistent and kept producing runs. The Diamondbacks do not have many big name players, but are a pesky team that can win a series very quickly.

Milwaukee Brewers: The Brewers have been the hottest team in baseball since the all-star break. From the beginning of the season, it was clear that the Brewers were all in to win it this year after trading multiple top prospects for Zack Greinke. The Brewers have a scary top three pitchers headed by Greinke then followed with Yovani Gallardo and Shaun Marcum. This pitching rotation accompanied by an offense featuring Prince Fielder, Ryan Bruan, Corey Hart and Rickie Weeks could find the Brewers winning their first World Series in the team’s history.

Philadelphia Phillies: The Phillies were expected to have a very successful regular season and lived up to expectations, with a new franchise record of winning 102 games. The Phillies lived all season off their starting rotation of Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels, Roy Oswalt, and rookie sensation Vance Worley. The aging and inconsistent offense will be the only worries for the Phillies throughout the postseason.

St. Louis Cardinals: The Cardinals battled through the entire season without their expected ace Adam Wainwright, who underwent Tommy John surgery during Spring Training and missed the entire season. Despite trailing the Braves by 8 ½ games in the wild card coming into the end of the season, the Cardinals battled back behind super star Albert Pujols, Matt Holliday and Lance Berkman. The Cardinals have a solid offense to complement their bullpen and could prove to be a difficult opponent during the playoffs

First Round Predictions:

Yankees Over Tigers

Rangers Over Rays

Phillies Over Cardinals

Brewers Over Diamondbacks

Eleven Minutes that Changed Baseball

Matt Arnold, Co-Sports Editor — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 17:13:55 +0000

Sports Illustrated baseball writer Joe Posnanski once said “I never argue with people who say baseball is boring because baseball is boring. But then, suddenly it isn’t. And that’s why it’s great.”

This quote has never been truer than it was on Wednesday night.

September 28 had been circled on every baseball player and fan’s calendar since last year as the final day of the 2011 regular season. It looked to be a finale just like practically every one before it. With one team having a commanding lead for each of the eight playoff positions as the beginning of September, it looked like game 162 would be meaningless for all 30 teams. There was even chatter about how to add a fifth team to each league’s playoffs to make September more exciting.

That was, until the collapses happened.

The Boston Red Sox and the Atlanta Braves each held sizeable leads for the American and National League Wild Cards as the last month of the season began. However, after 161 games had been played, the Red Sox found themselves in a tie with the Tampa Bay Rays, and the Braves with the St. Louis Cardinals for those wild cards. Thanks to a video on Major League Baseball’s website, we have a firm timeline that shows just how crazy that Wednesday night was. By sheer luck, Tampa and Boston’s final games started at 7:10. Even luckier, they both ended just after midnight. What happened in between will be remembered for years to come.

The Red Sox and the Baltimore Orioles became engaged in a back and forth duel featuring three lead changes in the first six innings. Tampa and the Yankees? Not so much. The Yankees exploded offensively to hold a seven run lead in the middle of the eighth inning. Further complicating matters, rain hit Oriole Park at Camden Yards in the middle of the seventh, forcing a delay and causing rumors to be spread that the rest of the game could be cancelled and the Red Sox awarded the victory by virtue of their 3-2 lead at the time. In response to this, Oriole announcer Gary Thorne gave a statement of fact that turned out to be almost prophetic telling the audience “nine innings will be played.”

When the Red Sox went to their locker room for the delay at 9:33 p.m., their path was clear: beat the Orioles and win the wild card. While sitting in their clubhouse, they watched St. Louis beat Houston, Philadelphia take the lead over Atlanta in the 13th inning that would ultimately eliminate the Braves from postseason contention. However, the most important development they saw during the nearly 90 minute interlude was Tampa, scoring six runs in the eighth and one in the ninth to force extra innings. Baltimore and Boston resumed play at 10:58, and what came a mere 55 minutes would change the future of two organizations.

At 11:54, the Rays were once again in trouble. The Yankees had runners on first and third base with nobody out, and Tampa was running out of available pitchers. The Yankees’ Jorge Posada grounded a ball to Evan Longoria at third. Greg Golson, the runner on third, first broke for home on contact, then decided to go back to his base. However, he was tagged out by Longoria, fundamentally changing the makeup of the inning.

Simultaneously, with two out in the bottom of the ninth at Oriole Park, Baltimore’s Chris Davis hit a two-strike pitch into the right field corner to keep the game alive for the Orioles. Five minutes later, at one minute to midnight, Baltimore’s Nolan Reimold hit an automatic double that one-hopped into the seats in right-center field. The run from second scored to level the game at three. Three minutes later, Robert Andino, who had been a thorn in the Sox’s side all September long, hit a sinking line drive to left. Carl Crawford dove in pursuit of the ball, and it hit into and out of his glove and rolled through left field. Crawford recovered in time to make a desperation heave of the ball towards home, but it was too late. Reimold came home safely, finishing the shocking comeback, which Gary Thorne so speechless that he could only exalt “They did it! They did it! They did it!” The Orioles piled on each other and celebrated as if they had just won the pennant; they had done it, the lowly Orioles had pushed the mighty Red Sox to the brink of elimination on national television.

All eyes then shifted to Tampa. The score was posted in Tropicana Field just after the walk off hit to a standing ovation from the Rays faithful, as Longoria stepped up to the plate in the bottom of the 12th inning. At 12:05, Thursday morning, 11 minutes after the Rays looked like they were on the verge of being left out from the postseason, Longoria wrapped a high line drive around the left-field foul pole and over the fence for the game-winning, wild-card clinching home run, culminating the most exciting night Major League Baseball has likely ever experienced. The last playoff spot belonged to Tampa Bay, and with it, the chance to go to the World Series.

Nate Sliver of the New York Times calculated the odds of the American League Wild Card race ending in the manner it did, with the Red Sox having a large lead on September 1, and the Rays coming back from down seven in the final game, to be one-in-278 million. What are the Rays’ odds of making the World Series now? One-in-four.

I think they will like those odds a lot better.

Rollins on track to break conference, division records

Staff Writer, Michael Gainor — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:23:40 +0000

At the beginning of every year, the Centennial Conference sends out the first of its

weekly football releases. In the first issue, the Centennial Conference named some players to

watch for this season. Mentioned were Muhlenberg’s Terrence Dandridge, Ursinus’ Bryan Ellis,

and Franklin & Marshall’s John Kaschak. Not mentioned was the new star running back of the

McDaniel College Football team, “Super” Joe Rollins.

Rollins, also known as JRoll, is this year’s star running back for the Green Terror. A

sophomore out of Temple Hills, Maryland, Rollins is a Computer Graphics major, who looks

like he can break nearly every rushing record here at McDaniel.

For those who don’t know, McDaniel has had a storied history of great runnings. The

most notable being Bill Shepard ’35 who went on to play in the NFL, and Eric Frees ’92, who

went on to set most Division 3 rushing records in his time.

Rollins may not know the history of the program, but that does not mean he won’t be

included. He is smashing records whenever he touches the ball, whether it was the Moravian

game where he tied a 40 year-long school record for most yards in a game (311) or being nine

carries shy from being second all time in conference history for highest average yards per carry

(6.8 yards in 91 attempts, needed 100 to qualify).

Rollins had this to say about the Conference underrating his performance: “I think

originally I was underrated because of my size, but once I had a couple of good games, now I

think more teams are paying attentions to my running ability…I actually did not pay attention to

anything [my stats or records] last year except making sure I knew the play book and making

sure I had the plays down.”

Interesting enough, going into Families Weekend’s Gettysburg game, Rollins had 97

attempts but this year has put up 7.0 yards per attempt. Super Joe is on pace to run for around

1,500 yards and if he keeps that up for his career, he will break the conference record of 5,281

yards, held by none other than McDaniel’s Eric Frees.

Rollins, however, does not see himself as a once in a generation player. “I guess people

think more highly of me then I do myself… I never imagined me breaking a school record or

being a college hall of fame.” Despite Rollin’s reserved attitude, the road to success appears

within an arm’s grasp as he will most likely become McDaniel’s best running back in history and

ultimately one of the best in Centennial and NCAA Division 3 history.

After Wild Finish, Baseball Postseason Begins

Dan Lamond, Staff Writer — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:00:54 +0000

American League

National League

First Round Predictions:

Yankees Over Tigers

Rangers Over Rays

Phillies Over Cardinals

Brewers Over Diamondbacks

Out-Pick Matt: Weeks 5 and 6

Matthew Arnold, Co-Sports Editor — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:00:33 +0000

In “Out-Pick Matt,” football fans try to predict the outcomes of National Football League games better than McDaniel Free Press Co-Sports Editor Matthew Arnold. In our first edition, the challenger is fellow Free Press sports writer Dan Lamond.

Week 5

New Orleans Saints vs. Carolina Panthers:

Dan says: Saints. Cam Newton has been phenomenal his first couple games, but Drew Brees and the Saints will get the best of the Panthers.

Matt says: Panthers. The Panthers have an opportunity at a big division win, hosting the Saints in what is sure to be a banner day for both teams’ offenses.

Arizona Cardinals vs. Minnesota Vikings:

Dan says: Cardinals. Kevin Kolb is starting to get comfortable with the Cardinals offense and will lead his team to victory.

Matt says: Vikings. Something has got to give for the Vikings; they are much more talented than their three-loss opening implies. A chance to host an NFC West team in the Metrodome will give them a chance to inch back towards respectability

Philadelphia Eagles vs. Buffalo Bills:

Dan says: Eagles. Michael Vick and Desean Jackson will pick apart the Bills secondary and give the birds a win.

Matt says: Eagles. This is certainly a better game than everyone thought it would be at the beginning of the season. Don’t sleep on the Bills if Vick and company are still injured come Week 5.

Seattle Seahawks vs. New York Giants:

Dan says: Giants. The Giants run game will be too overwhelming for the Seahawks and give them the week five “W.”

Matt says: Giants. The Seahawks are as talented as their underwhelming opening suggests; a trip to New York will not cure what ails them.

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Jacksonville Jaguars:

Dan says: Jaguars. Maurice Jones-Drew will have a field day against the Bengals defense and lead the Jags to a victory.

Matt says: Jaguars. Blaine Gabbert vs. Andy Dalton might be a great quarterback battle someday, but Gabbert has more talent around him right now, and Cincinnati is in shambles.

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Indianapolis Colts:

Dan says: Colts. The Peyton Manning-less Colts will escape with a victory over the Jamal Charles-less Chiefs.

Matt says: Indianapolis. Curtis Painter showed that he could someday be an NFL quarterback in leading the tying touchdown drive against Pittsburgh in Week three. Look for him to have a good game against Kansas City at home, sans Eric Berry.

Tennessee Titans vs. Pittsburgh Steelers:

Dan says: Steelers. The Steelers defense will be too much for the Titans to handle.

Matt says: Steelers. The Titans were expected to languish in mediocrity this season, and that was before they lost Kenny Britt, who was instrumental in the Baltimore game, for the rest of the year.

Oakland Raiders vs. Houston Texans:

Dan says: Texans. Andre Johnson will have a big game and help lead the Texans over the Raiders.

Matt says: Texans. The Raiders are much, much improved this season, but with Indianapolis, Tennessee, and Jacksonville all weakened and with quarterback issues, the Texans are on a mission to exit mediocrity and win their first South division title.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. San Francisco 49ers:

Dan says: 49ers. In a tight game, the 49ers will squeak out with a victory over the Bucs.

Matt says: Buccaneers. A trip to the West Coast will not slow Josh Freeman and company, who need every win outside of the NFC South they can get.

New York Jets vs. New England Patriots:

Dan says: Patriots. Tom Brady will come up huge against the Jets despite their preparation for the Pats and their defensive effort.

Matt says: Patriots. The Jets couldn’t beat the Raiders in Oakland; I can’t see how they’re going to beat the Patriots in New England.

San Diego Chargers vs. Denver Broncos:

Dan says: Chargers. Phillip Rivers will put it together with Vincent Jackson and lead the Chargers to a heavily offensive game.

Matt says: Chargers. Denver is in the middle of a rebuilding year under new coach John Fox, while Phillip Rivers and Norv Turner are still helming the Chargers.

Green Bay Packers vs. Atlanta Falcons:

Dan says: Packers. The Packers defense will shut down Matt Ryan for most of the game, but it will still be a tight battle.

Matt says: Packers. It is hard to pick against the Packers in the Georgia Dome after the thrashing Aaron Rogers and friends put on the Falcons in the playoffs last year.

Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions:

Dan says: Lions. The Lions’ defense will give Jay Cutler nightmares for weeks but Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson will come up big for the Lions.

Matt says: Lions. Ndamukong Suh against Jay Cutler? Give me the Lions, especially since the game is in Detroit, and not in the mud pit of Soldier Field.

Week 6

Carolina Panthers vs. Atlanta Falcons:

Dan says: Falcons

Matt says: Falcons

Indianapolis Colts vs. Cincinnati Bengals:

Dan says: Colts

Matt says: Bengals

San Francisco 49ers vs. Detroit Lions:

Dan says: Lions

Matt says: Lions

Philadelphia Eagles vs. Washington Redskins:

Dan says: Eagles

Matt says: Redskins

St. Louis Rams vs. Green Bay Packers:

Dan says: Packers

Matt says: Packers

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Pittsburgh Steelers:

Dan says: Steelers

Matt says: Steelers

Buffalo Bills vs. New York Giants:

Dan says: Giants

Matt says: Giants

Cleveland Browns vs. Oakland Raiders:

Dan says: Raiders

Matt says: Raiders

Houston Texans vs. Baltimore Ravens:

Dan says: Ravens

Matt says: Ravens

New Orleans Saints vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers:

Dan says: Saints

Matt says: Buccaneers

Dallas Cowboys vs. New England Patriots:

Dan says: Patriots

Matt says: Patriots

Minnesota Vikings vs. Chicago Bears:

Dan says: Bears

Matt says: Bears

Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets:

Dan says: Jets

Matt says: Jets

Stadium Renovations to be Completed by Next Fall

Kaitlyn Vadenais, Co-Sports Editor — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 12:00:13 +0000

McDaniel sports fans will soon be cheering for more than their athletic teams. Plans are currently underway for a fresh and contemporary stadium facility.

Lee Primm, the Director of Special Projects at McDaniel, shared the vision for the new stadium.

The new facility will be able to seat 1400 fans, an improvement on the limited seating currently available. The entire grandstand will have a brick facade with additional materials of glass, steel, and concrete.

There will be press and media boxes, coach’s areas, and an entertainment center for fundraising and recruiting events. The stadium will have a top deck with a full view for video recording. Underneath will be an area for concessions and memorabilia, as well as restrooms, training rooms, and team rooms that will cater to both males and females. Use of the facility will not be restricted to sporting events.

During the construction, the entrance to the stadium will be relocated near the tennis courts. There are also plans for a walkway around the arena. Of course, nothing about this project is going to alter the renowned bowl shape or interfere with the tradition of tailgating during home events.

The new Athletic Director, Paul Moyer, believes strongly in the construction of the stadium. “Much like students in other co-curricular areas, students participate ‘for the love of the game’ which makes it important to them, important to their educational experience and therefore important for the college.”

The timeline for the project is to begin at the completion of the 2011 football season to have the new stadium finished by next year’s season. The hope is that construction will not limit access to the turf by non-fall users.

“I don’t think it’s a far reaching goal to play the first football game of 2012 in the new venue,” said Primm.

The first phase of the project, the lights, have already been installed.

Primm says goal of the project is to “bring a higher aesthetic to the look for the field.” The hope is that the stadium will change how other schools, students, prospective students, and even the community views the college. Friends and alumni of the college take great pride in the campus and the new facility will not just be for athletes.

“Athletics play an important role in the educational experience for all students,” said Primm. “Right behind the importance of residence halls, and academics, is entertainment and athletics.”

Moyer voiced similar opinions. “The stadium project will be one of those projects that will change the experience for thousands of students over time and is one of the projects that will have an immediate impact on the student experience which is what you hope for when developing facilities on campus.”

As of now, the project has raised about 8.2 million in pledges towards their goal of 9.5 million.

The architects will have new renditions of the stadium project available soon for students and Green Terror fans.

The Triple Threat of McDaniel’s Women’s Field Hockey Team

Whitney Cothorn, Staff Reporter — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 12:00:11 +0000

Hope Battista, Michelle Deitrick, and Paige Messersmith are the captains of McDaniel’s Women’s Field Hockey team of 2011. All three girls display a close bond on and off the field. “Everyone on the team is close,” Battista says, “There are only seventeen of us.” By just hanging around these girls for such a little time, it’s hard to see a way they wouldn’t be able to get along.

A senior exercise science and physical education major, Battista’s name may come to mind when associated with the McDaniel Free Press. She spoke to Free Press about switching from a Division I school to a Division III. The transition appears not to be a problem for the Crofton, Maryland native.

Self-described as the “outspoken captain,” Battista commands attention when she speaks but also laughter soon after. The comfort she brings to the team is incomparable to Michelle Deitrick, one of Battista’s co-captains

Deitrick, a senior psychology major, is described as being the most caring on the team. “The team needs to feel comfortable coming to you (a captain),” Deitrick assures. She happily accepts the role of the “mom captain.” She is also very proud to be the President of the Education minor honor society, Kappa Delta Pi.

Deitrick is one of the reasons why the three freshmen on the team are no longer nervous and feel like part of the team. It also helps having Coach Jones, who demonstrated her love of dance by doing “The Spongebob” during a team workout in the weight room.

Last, but definitely not least on the field, is junior Paige Messersmith. The quietest of the three, Messersmith softly mentions being on the All-Centennial Conference list last season. No surprise since she has played field hockey the longest – since second grade.

To her, being a captain means setting the example for the rest of the team. She has done just that on and off the field. Last year she was awarded a department honor on the Green and Gold Honor Roll.

These three ladies united as one make a great team. This is the first time since 2004 that the field hockey team has gone this far into a season being 3-0. “This is it,” Battista exclaims, “That’s our team motto.”

The excitement of starting the season with such a great number is only part of their enthusiasm as they step onto the McDaniel field. The field hockey team was also the first team to make a debut under the new stadium lights of the football field.

“It’s really exciting because other fall teams who are busy with their own season or class can now come see us play. But so can our parents who work during the day,” Deitrick animates.

“Yeah, but sometimes it’s nice to play during the day.” Battista adds. Whether it is under the sun or under the moon, these girls are getting it done. Good luck on your season!

Green Terror Athletes of the Week:

Courtesy of the McDaniel Athletic Department — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 01:48:25 +0000

Nick O’Melia, Football: O’Melia caught seven passes for 203 yards against Gettysburg on Saturday to record the Green Terror’s first 200-yard receiving day since Paul McCord caught 227 yards worth of passes against Gettysburg in 2003. Among O’Melia’s receptions were three touchdowns, covering 54, 56 and 36 yards.

Emily Peoples, Women’s Cross Country: Peoples finished 59th with a time of 25:05 in the 6,000-meter Brooks Paul Short Run race of 335 competitors from Division II, III and Junior College. As a team, the Green Terror placed 22nd in the 39-team field at the prestigious event that features three colleges races divided based on projected times.

Last Week’s Results:

Men’s Soccer (3-6-1, 0-4 CC):

Sept. 28 – vs. Dickinson – L, 0-4

Oct. 1 – vs. No. 14 Swarthmore – L, 0-2

Oct. 3 – at Goucher – W, 3-1

Women’s Soccer (1-7, 1-3 CC):

Sept. 28 – at Goucher – L, 1-2

Sept. 29 – vs. Stevenson – L, 0-4

Oct. 1 – vs. Ursinus – L, 1-3

Volleyball (0-14, 0-4 CC):

Sept. 29 – vs. Gallaudet – L, 0-3

Oct. 1 – vs. Ursinus – L, 0-3

Field Hockey (6-3, 2-2 CC):

Oct. 1 – vs. No. 7 Ursinus – L, 1-3

Football (1-4, 1-3 CC):

Oct. 1 – vs. Gettysburg – L, 37-44

Women’s Tennis (1-0, 0-0 CC):

Oct. 1-2 – at Goucher Tournament

Men’s Cross Country:

Sept. 30 – Brooks Paul Short Run at Lehigh – 36th of 42 (927)

Women’s Cross Country:

Sept. 30 – Brooks Paul Short Run at Lehigh – 22nd of 39 (599)

Meet the Green: Ron Shriver

Whitney Cothorn, Staff Reporter — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 12:00:32 +0000

There are those people who watch things happen and then there are those who make things happen. Ron Shriver is one of those people who makes things happen for this generation and the next.

One of the most humble students on campus has to be senior Ron Shriver, co-captain of the Cross Country team. A local, Shriver is a man recognized throughout the community for starting a program for children at the Westminster Road Runners Club. The program offers a quarter mile race for children. Since he and other parents like to bring their children to races, he says he just wanted to do something for them. His two kids join the McDaniel cross country team during the week on runs and on the weekends at competitions. His wife, Jennifer Shriver, is a recent graduate of McDaniel College but is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Alaska.

Shriver started running track in the eighth grade, determined to succeed after a teacher told him that he was not fast enough. Even though that experience was not a positive mark on his life, it did drive him to compete on the track for not only speed but also endurance. When asked whether he prefers speed or endurance, Shriver goes with endurance. It is the will to continue and having the mental capacity to keep going that captures his heart. The old fable “The Tortoise and the Hare” slips into mind very easily and one can see a quiet confidence and maturity exude from him.

Living life so gently and happily has worked for Shriver, and it is no surprise that he was appointed captain. “A captain has to be a supportive figure, not a dictator, and have experience,” Shriver says. “I’m older so I have the experience.” Before coming to McDaniel, he spent a number of years in the United States Marine Corps, which he says, “Is in [his] past and doesn’t define [him].” What is ahead of him is a degree in Exercise Science and a future as a physical education teacher. The world needs a leader like Shriver that personifies perseverance and tenacity.

Meet the Green: Jake Zamostny

Whitney Cothorn, Staff Reporter — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 12:00:22 +0000

If I absolutely had to sum Jake Zamostny up in one word, it would have to be regal. Very poised, calm, and collected. No wonder he’s a captain of the cross country team.

A Mt. Airy native, Zamostny is very proud of all of the cross country captains for their active recruitment of the freshmen runners. They made phone calls, held discussions in the Facebook group, and really tried to close the gap between upper and lower classmen. The team is coming together so well that they may even think Zamostny “takes the workouts too seriously,” or so he thinks.

Who could blame the guy when it is competition season for him year round? This past summer, Zamostny participated in the Twilight Series at the Westminster Road Runners where he won his age group. Placing high has been one of his accomplishments this past season yet he was still surprised and grateful to be named captain for the 2011 season.

His favorite memory so far at McDaniel has been going to the Centennial Conference Championship at Muhlenberg. Going with a smaller group rather than the whole team helped him get to know the seniors better before they graduated last year.

Jake Zamostny appears to have everything together. An Exercise Science major planning on attending graduate school for Exercise Physiology, he’s ready for what the future will bring him this season.

Meet the Green: Kevin White

Whitney Cothorn, Staff Reporter — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 12:00:40 +0000

When you first walk onto the McDaniel College campus, you attempt to figure everyone out. Jock, Greek, activist, bookworm. They’re all labels and stereotypes that not every person on this campus is a part of. For example, Kevin White, one of the captains of the Green Terror football team.

A junior, Kevin White, was informed he would be one of the 2011 football season captains in the spring of the previous school year, “I didn’t expect it at all.” It was his teammates who voted the cornerback as a leader. “To be a captain, you have to set an example for everyone else.”

The self-proclaimed “boring, quiet guy” made sure to reach out to the incoming freshmen about what to expect when the season rolls around. Until the fall, Kevin focused on work and exercise; very much appropriate for this exercise science major who intends on becoming a personal trainer after McDaniel. He’s more of a man behind the scenes, not the center of attention. “My freshman year I tripped in Glar, and you know how that goes. I got a round of applause.” Even telling the story caused a bashful reaction in him, “I’m really quiet. I would like to be the funny guy but I’m not.” What he is though, is one of the many Phillies and Eagles fans on campus.

With an ego small enough to hide between the layers of a humble pie, he does take glory in the team’s performance in last year’s homecoming game against Gettysburg. Surrounded by the music of favorite classic rock artists before the game and his loving family after, White made sure to get the job done. He did it as a football captain in high school, and he’s ready to do it again at McDaniel.

Meet the Green: Missy Black

Whitney Cothorn, Staff Reporter — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 12:00:57 +0000

One of the great things about McDaniel is that is allows you to express yourself inside and out as you discover yourself. Melissa Black, I mean Missy Black, has done just that.

From a small town in Pennsylvania, population no greater than McDaniel’s, Missy came to the Hill with a background in running to help keep in shape for soccer. Not only did the running bug bite her, it consumed her. During her sophomore year at Bishop Shanahan, she started an indoor track team at her school since they did not have one. Despite being the go-to girl for the 4×4, Missy is more of a fan of cross country since she does not have to “run for her life like a murderer is chasing her.”

During the beginning of her McDaniel track career, she had some difficulty with anemia but soon came back with a vengeance and a new pregame ritual: juicing. “People would think beets and lime won’t taste good together but they do.” I’ll take your word for it Missy. Another thing she focuses on is the camaraderie within the team. She mentions how close everyone on the team is and how every year they play Secret Sister, their version of Secret Santa.

To prepare for the 2011 season, Missy worked really hard on recruiting freshman. This year the two cross country teams combined are about 50 students but compared to other schools, they’re still a small program. One of the things Missy wishes for is that other athletes take part in not just cross country but the other track seasons to help stay in shape for their own sports season. This level of encouragement is one of the reasons why she is a captain.

To her a captain has to be organized and able to communicate with everyone in a “non-threatening” way. This will certainly help her in the future with her History major, Environmental Policy & Spanish minors and hopes of becoming a consultant.

Her parting request to the cross country team after she graduates this year is that they remain close, but not as a “clique.” She has tried hard to make everyone feel comfortable with one another and wishes for it to stay that way.

McDaniel Shows Off Tailgating Style to Weather Channel

Amber Slater, Co-News Editior — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 15:03:39 +0000

Tailgating, for most, might be defined as an activity that ends when a football game begins. At McDaniel, though, tailgating and the game are one entity, and our unique style of barbequing and tent hopping through entire football games has now gained national attention.

On Saturday, September 10, The Weather Channel came to our home game against Moravian in order to capture our unique tailgating style.

Chris Counts, a field producer from the show, said that McDaniel has been named one of the top seven colleges for tailgating and that we will be juxtaposed against much larger Division I state schools. The goal is to convey views that no matter the size of a school, “tailgating, at its core, is the same.”

The Weather Channel not only took footage of the game, but interviewed students as well in order to better understand the McDaniel tailgating experience. Carissa Grove, a senior Phi Mu, said that she and her sisters were asked why we paint sorority and fraternity letters for games, what we eat and drink during the game, what the general small school experience is like, and whether having so many students at games was the norm.

Kara Schulteis, another senior and President of Phi Mu, said that to the final question the emphatic answer was “absolutely yes, rain or shine.”

Our persistence to show up for games despite weather was especially pertinent due to the downpour in the days leading up to and the hours directly before the game. “It’s fantastic to have [The Weather Channel] here” President Casey joked, “but I really wish they’d done something about the weather for the rest of the week!”

He went on to express his excitement that attention from the Weather Channel will “help get our name out” and illustrate “what we do at a small college.”

Viewers won’t see McDaniel students screaming in bleachers; instead, they’ll see rowdy games of cornhole and students traipsing from one tent to the next, catching up with friends and pausing every now and again to cheer on the team.

Senior Matt Draayer, President of Phi Kappa Sigma, claims that he wouldn’t trade the experience for a more typical one.

“I love being able to watch the game while I grill and enjoy a legal drink,” he stated. “It’s nice not to be confined to a seat because I get to see all my friends.”

The final product is projected to air sometime in October, and Peggy Fosdick, Director of Communications at McDaniel, says that as soon as the school knows more about the program schedule, it will be promoted to students.

The Big Games: Homecoming and Hopkins

Matthew Arnold, Staff Reporter — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:58:30 +0000

There is not much that McDaniel and other Division III schools can look at to compare themselves to major Division I programs like Michigan and Alabama. One factor though that unites all football-playing schools is the atmosphere and tradition that accompanies a Saturday in autumn. Many sports comprise McDaniel College’s fall athletic schedule, but nothing draws a crowd as numerous and passionate as the ones that attend the college’s six home football games. While no observer will mistake Bair Stadium for the Big House in Ann Arbor or Westminster for Tuscaloosa, these six games are as much a focal point for McDaniel and its student body as the games aired on CBS and ABC that feature the storied royalty of collegiate football. With a 35-14 win over Moravian in the only conference game the Green Terror has contested this season in the books, it is too soon for anyone to say how much success the football squad will have this year. For the players and coaches, every game is important, and upcoming contests in Westminster against Gettysburg on October 1 and Franklin and Marshall on October 15 should give McDaniel a boost through home-field advantage. However, two dates loom large on this season’s football schedule: October 29 and November 12. At 1 p.m. on October 29, McDaniel will face Juniata as the centerpiece of Homecoming Weekend. This year’s matchup will have a tough act to follow after last year’s frantic triple-overtime Homecoming victory over Gettysburg that featured a 16 point comeback in a tilt that the Athletics Department’s website’s game summary could only describe as a “thriller.” Recent history suggests that day’s contest will be exciting, as three of the last four meetings between McDaniel and Juniata have been decided by less than four points, and the Green Terror have won all but one of those four games. Many view homecoming as the quintessential game to attend, but one major matchup that cannot be overlooked is the last game of the season, featuring McDaniel against Johns Hopkins at noon on November 12. The lifeblood of college football is the traditions and rivalries that form between teams through the decades, which is why it is important to note that this will be the 84th consecutive season in which the Green Terror take on Johns Hopkins to close the season. The series has been somewhat lopsided in recent memory, with Johns Hopkins taking the last ten games the two have played, most recently last year’s contest in Baltimore, in which Hopkins rolled 34-10. However, it is still a historic game, still the last game of the regular season, and still important if the 2011 Green Terror squad is to make this season one to remember. For updated information on the Green Terror football team throughout this season above and beyond what is found in the Free Press, a full schedule with results and in-depth statistics is available at the McDaniel Athletics website (www.mcdanielathletics.com).

Fall Sports Update

Kaitlyn Vadenais, Co-Sports Editor — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:23:21 +0000

Fall sports at McDaniel are proving to be competitive this season.

The Men’s Cross Country team has come in 3rd at their first two meets, while the Women’s Cross Country team came in 4th and 1st to start off their season. Those two meets are also their only two home meets of the year.

The Green Terror Football team is split with one loss, one win. Their next home game will be Saturday, October 1 against Gettysburg.

The Field Hockey Team has the best record for the fall sports at 3-0. They will be playing York at home on September 22 under the lights.

The Men’s Soccer Team is currently 1-1 as well, with two ties. The next time you can catch them at home will be September 21 against Hood.

The Women’s Soccer Team has yet to secure a win with a 0-2 record. They will be competing with Bryn Mawr at home on September 24.

The Volleyball Team has played the most games but are unfortunately holding an 0-7 record. They will also be playing Bryn Mawr on the September 24!

We wish all the teams the best of luck as they continue through their seasons! Go Green Terror!

NBA Predictions

kvadenais — Tue, 10 May 2011 14:00:54 +0000

Ben Grant

Chicago vs. Indiana: Bulls lead series 3 games to 1.

How we got here: Chicago’s Derrick Rose has continued his MVP caliber play from the regular season, carrying the Chicago offense through out the series averaging 28 points, but 33 points in wins and only 16 points in losses. Derrick Rose did sprain his ankle midway through game four, the only game the Pacers won, but the games have all been down-to-the-wire affairs. Even though the Pacers won a game, the Bulls will still win this series. Bulls in 5

Philadelphia vs. Miami: Heat lead series 3-1.

How we got here: Miami’s LeBron James, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh have been too much for the 76ers to handle. The trio is averaging nearly 70 points a game, and the Sixers do not have a dynamic scorer to answer with. If you total the points in the first, third, and fourth quarters of each of the first four games, the Sixers have outscored the Heat by 12 points. The problem is, if you total the points scored by both teams in the second quarter, the Heat have outscored the Sixers by more than forty points. It took a last second three by Louis Williams and a missed short range jumper by Lebron James for the Sixers to get one at home. It’s nice that they won’t get swept, but the Heat are going to win this series. Heat in 5.

Boston vs. New York: Celtics win series 4-0

How we got here: The Knicks lost the first two games in Boston by a combined five points. They went on to play with less energy and effort at home, losing by a combined 29 points. They allowed the Celtics to score over 100 points on the Knicks home court. The Celtics had at least two scorers over 20 points in every game, while the Knicks struggled to find other scoring options besides Carmelo Anthony, once Amare Stoudemire hurt his back. Losing New York’s Chauncey Billups to run the point at the beginning of game 1, combined with Stoudemire hurting his back was too much to over come, This team was assembled at the trade deadline and has not had much time together. In the off season they need to tweak their roster to add more big men and input a better defensive scheme.

Atlanta vs. Orlando: Atlanta is up 3-1.

How we got here: Atlanta has allowed Orlando’s Dwight Howard to get his points but they shut down the rest of the Orlando Magic to great effect. Dwight has averaged 33 points and 19 rebounds. Orlando’s Jameer Nelson has averaged 18, but since he scored 28 points in one game that average is distorted; it means the rest of the games he averaged 10 points. The Hawks have had two 20 point scorers in every game except for game two, which they lost. The Hawks have two dynamic scorers, Joe Johnson and Jamal Crawford, who can create their own shots at any time. That’s why the Hawks will win this series. Hawks in six.

Memphis vs. San Antonio: Memphis is up 2-1

How we got here: The Memphis Grizzlies “tanked” the last game of the season, not playing some of their starters to ensure they would play the Spurs. This move was widely viewed as dumb, but as they are now up 2-1 and dominating the Spurs in the paint, it can be looked at as a pretty smart move. Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs didn’t play game one due to injury; the Spurs looked lethargic and lost. Ginobili’s return for game two helped energize the Spurs; he scored 17 points and they won. He couldn’t help them enough in game three though, so now the Spurs face a 2-1 hole. The three games have been decided by a combined 12 points, so it will probably be a long series. Grizzlies win in six.

Los Angeles vs. New Orleans: Series tied 2-2

How we got here: Chris Paul of the New Orleans Hornets has delivered two of the best performances of these young playoffs, defeating last year’s champion Lakers on their own court in Game 1. He put up an astounding stat line of 27 points, 13 assists and 15 rebounds. Paul has had to carry the Hornets for long stretches and it’s hard to believe that he’ll be able to carry the Hornets to four wins against the Lakers onslaught of talented big men. Pau Gasol has struggled with his offense throughout the series, and questions of his toughness are arising again. He seems to be re-asserting himself and that will only help the Lakers make a deep playoff run. Lakers in 7.

Portland vs. Dallas: series tied 2-2

How we got here: Dallas won the first two games, with their big time scorer Dirk Nowitzki scoring over 30 points a game. In their losses, super-sub Jason Terry has averaged 30 points a game. The Mavericks have lost the last two games in Portland, including game four in which they were up by 23 halfway through the third quarter. Portland guard Brandon Roy, who had knee surgery this past off season and had been trying to regain his game all season, turned in a vintage Roy game by scoring 18 points in the fourth quarter of game four and willing Portland to win, tying the series at two. The Mavericks have won their two games by a combined 20 points, while Portland has won by a combined 7 points. Mavericks will fight off their playoff-choking demons, and finally win a close series. Mavericks in seven.

Denver vs. Oklahoma City: Oklahoma up 3-0

How we got here: This series has had two close games and one blowout, with the blowout coming when the Denver Nuggets quite simply couldn’t find the bottom of the net. The two close losses have been more telling. When the Thunder need a basket with under two minutes remaining in a close game, Okalahoma City’s Russell Westbrook or Kevin Durant is taking that shot. The Nuggets play great team basketball, but at the end of the game they are unsure who should take the final shot. Trading Carmelo Anthony for a bunch of solid role-players was a good idea, but Anthony is one of the best end-of-game closers. This gaping flaw is showing up now, as Denver is struggling at the end of games. The Thunder will win this series next game. Thunder in four.

New Technology Could Mean Better Gym Experience

kvadenais — Tue, 10 May 2011 14:00:50 +0000

Liz Mirizio

The new question at the gym may not be what equipment is available, but whether the available equipment features a personal television.

Normally the elliptical and treadmill users at the gym have the option to watch television programs while working out to help the time pass and shed weight. A large television mounted on a wall in front of the cardio equipment allows entertainment to be had by all. This is a very enjoyable privilege until the other users pick a show or channel that is not enjoyable for everyone surrounding them.

Having to share the same channel with everyone else can be a hassle such as losing the remote or having bad television sharing manors like volume or channel choosing. Monika Lemke, a gym user, also shares that sometimes when watching the community television, she views things that are disturbing and uncomfortable to watch.

Lemke does speculate that individual televisions would potentially make the communication issues between human beings worse by further cutting off the need to interact with other humans.

However, Dan Green points out that an unpleasant television viewing experience at the gym not only effects your mood, but also the quality of your workout. If everyone could enjoy what they wanted then they could focus more on getting healthy.

Lemke also was supportive of individual televisions, agreeing it would be cool to be able to change the channel. As shown there are plenty of pros and cons to sharing a television with stranger so is this new technology in gyms beneficial or harmful?

Treadmills and numerous other pieces of cardio equipment can have individual televisions connected to the control pads. The users can pick the volume, the show, and change anything whenever they like. There is no risk of remote loss or viewing a show that is uncomfortable or un-enjoyable. This revolution has popped up on a few machines at the local Hanover YMCA and is sure to be an epidemic soon.

Only time will tell if this technology advance will last or be halted in its tracks due to funds or lack of enthusiasm. Keep an ear out for more information on this debate at your local gym.

Sports Year in Review

Elec Trainor — Tue, 10 May 2011 14:00:19 +0000

Elec Trainor

What a wild year of sports 2010-2011 has been at McDaniel College.

Up’s and downs were a repeating pattern throughout each athletic season here on “The Hill”, and the roller coaster ride that is Green Terror Athletics tossed and turned athlete’s and fan’s minds alike and played with their hearts.

Take the football season this year for example. A fast start saw the Green Terror go half way through the season with a 4-1 record, including two shutout victories. The second half of the season saw the complete opposite, finishing the year off with a mediocre record of 5-5.

One game alone captured the intense back and forth drama that embodied the whole season. On Saturday, November 6th, after a triple-overtime-come-from-behind thrilling homecoming, the Terror beat Gettysburg College 36-30.

But that wasn’t the only heart stopping McDaniel game. For the men’s soccer team, 13 of their 17 games played were decided by two goals or less. Although the Terror ended on the losing side of most of them, the team had heart, and competed with every team they played.

The same could be said about many of the other fall McDaniel teams such as Field Hockey, Women’s soccer, and Volleyball.

By the time winter rolled around, the Terror were ready for more of the same heartache. And they would need it.

One of the biggest heartbreakers came at the CentennialConference Men’s Basketball tournament first round. A shocking one point loss to Haverford, on Wednesday February 23rd, that saw the Green Terror’s championship hopes dashed.

Despite the poor records and deflating defeats that many of the Terror teams had faced throughout the fall and winter seasons, there were many bright spots.

New faces shined for the green and gold in many sports, giving signs of a bright future here in Westminster. Joe Rollins became a human highlight reel at running back for the football team. Sophomore Jake Zamostny found his place to take over the reins from always accountable senior’s CJ Naper and Ron Shriver in cross country.

Old faces shined as well, and laid claim to many post-season honors. Chris Kolb, Paul Smith, Sam Cox, Jake Nichols, and Aaron Slaughter were tabbed All-Confernce players for football. Cox also earned All-American as a defensive lineman, and Kolb earned a spot as All-Region after tying McDaniel record of eight interceptions. Shriver and Naperboth represented McDaniel at the regional Cross Country run after having great individual seasons. Lindsey Wilson had another outstanding year in Women’s Cross Country and earned herself All-Region. Devon Lesniak earned himself All-Conference after a impressive season in Men‘s Basketball.

Finally, no one had a better year individually than senior wrestler Brock Glotfelty. Finishing the season with a 34-3 record, Glotfelty earned All-American status and captured the College’s all time wins record with 126, and finished third at the NCAA championships. All thanks to his abilities and never say die attitude.

“I think that there are a few things that separate me from other wrestlers in my weight class,” recalls Glotfelty. “First is my athletic ability and quickness. This allows me to use different techniques that some heavyweights cannot use effectively. Another thing is my conditioning. In many of my matches I am able to push the pace and tire out my opponents. The last thing is my will to win. I hate losing! No matter who steps out on the mat I expect to win the match.”

But the Green Terror are not done yet!

The spring season is still in play, and all though the teams are not winning as much as hoped or anticipated, the Terror rollercoaster seems destined for a wild finish.

For Men’s Lacrosse, DJ Rickels is trying to find a way to lead his team to yet another post season berth. After a slow start, the Terror have won three of their last four games.

In Tennis, the freshmen phenoms from North Carroll Brian Kron and Matt Langsdale are looking to push their way to Conference tournaments and lead the Terror to a winning record.

For the baseball team, the bats are busy, cranking out 137 runs in just 26 games. However, keeping with the spirit of the college, the wins and losses are both coming in bunches.

The same is true with the Green Terror Softball team with a record now of 11-19.

As the school year winds down, so does the athletic calendar. And although this year’s wild journey has had more fall’s than anyone would have wanted, the Green Terror ride is far from over. There’s always next year.

Traditions or Superstitions?

Kaitlyn Vadenais Staff Reporter — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 14:06:02 +0000

To an athlete, the pre-game is just as important as the game. Whether the pre-game involves what you do, what you wear, or what you eat, at McDaniel College, where approximately 33% of the student population plays at least one varsity sport, there are some very interesting rituals and superstitions to be found.

Green Terror teams will usually share in certain pre-game routines together.

The field hockey team will circle together the day of the game and hold hands. Their coach starts a squeeze and the team passes the squeeze around the circle. At the end of the ritual, the team then claps and yells, “Ahh, Terror!” Players like to be near certain teammates each time during this circle.

In addition to their circle, Katie Corson, a junior field hockey player, shared that “At the end of a practice the day before a field hockey game we always a do a cheer we made up.”

For the girl’s basketball team, members partake in a team meal before games.

The baseball team has a team huddle to get them pumped before games. Some players also have different handshakes with their teammates.

Individual players also have personal routines.

Sophomore Morgan Koopman is a member of both the golf and basketball teams. Before her golf matches, she likes to get mentally focused by listening to music and practicing hard before she tees off. Before basketball games, “I have to make a shot before I go into the huddle; I can’t end on a miss.”

Junior Torin Lehmann, a Wrestler, also likes to listen to music before matches. “I visualize how I hope the match will go that day.”

Hope Batista, a junior on the field hockey team, taps both sides of the goal with her stick on their warm up lap before field hockey games.

Ashley Meister, a sophomore softball player, prepares for games in the same way before every game. “I warm up every pitch in a certain order and I always do the same amount of pitches for every pitch so it’s equal.”

Some superstitions are based on appearance. For the field hockey team, if they are on a winning streak, players will continue to wear the same sports bras, underwear, or socks to continue the good luck. Batista also wears a lucky ribbon in her hair to every game.

During the game, the superstitions continue for some players. Meister always turns left when she walks back to the mound, “unless I just pitched two balls. Then I walk back to the right.”

Erinne Warrenfeltz, a junior on the softball team, uses the same routine before every at bat. “First I need to put on my ankle brace, and then my batting gloves, and then I put on my elbow brace. I only put my helmet on outside the fence before I take my practice swings.” And if the team is having a good inning, she will not fix her hair.

While it is hard to tell if these pre-game rituals are just superstitions that help ease the minds of the athletes, it is clear that no one will be missing their routines before the next game.

Men’s Lacrosse Spring Trip

Warren Kraft Staff Reporter — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 14:03:02 +0000

Sophomore Mike Woglom exhausted from 6:30 AM practice. Photo by Warren Kraft.

Flocks of rowdy drunken people sporting green t-shirts crawling from pub to pub all over Bean Town in anticipation for good ole’ St. Patty’ s Day. This was a sight many members of the McDaniel Men’ s Lacrosse team had never seen before, until Spring Break 2011.

The McDaniel Men’ s Lacrosse team takes a spring break trip every year. This year the team stayed in the elegant Hyatt Place, in Medford, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston. The team’s trip consisted of two travel days, two practice days, and one game day. Traveling together is a great way to strengthen team camaraderie; it is truly a bonding experience. When asked,“ What was the highlight of this years team trip,” Defensive Coordinator, Zach Hitton, stated, “winning and spending quality time with the team.”

The team landed in Boston Friday, March 11. Upon arrival to the hotel just about everyone on the team, including the coaches, threw their bags in their room, changed and went out on the town. The destination was Faneuil Hall because that is a hot spot in Boston for young adults. The sidewalks, pubs, and restaurants were overflowing with all types of people wearing green and shouting in celebration. Senior Men’ s Lacrosse team player, Matt Dean said, “ This years trip was awesome! There is nothing cooler than being a ginger in Boston around St. Patty’ s Day, I felt like the man.”

The spring break trip is a highly anticipated privilege that comes with being a part of the McDaniel Men’ s Lacrosse team. In terms of lacrosse, the trip was very worth while.

The team travelled up to Southern New Hampshire University where we punched the clock and got in two very strong practices. Everyone was excited to be out there on the turf giving it their all. Tuesday, game day, rolled around before we knew it.

Prior to the game we had a team lunch, in the words of Ryan Gillan, a sophmore lacrosse player, “ I wish we had a lunch like that before every game. The pasta and chicken parmesan were delicious.” After the lunch we hopped on the bus and headed to Babson College, to play Thomas College. Everyone was focused and ready to play.

We ended up defeating Thomas College, 22 goals to their 1. When we returned to the hotel after our victory, we were greeted by family members and a ridiculous amount of pizza. This put the cherry on top of the trip.

The next day we flew back to Baltimore after a long delay at Boston Logan. When people think of a spring break lacrosse trip they usually think of teams going to Florida, California, or some other warm place. That is obviously not the case for McDaniel’ s Men’s Lacrosse Team. Our trip to Boston was an experience that none of us will forget.

Meet the Green

Gregory Nolen Staff Reporter — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 14:02:45 +0000

While McDaniel men’s lacrosse fans might not have heard of sophomore midfielder Michael Marks, they might get to in the future. While he hasn’t played in very many, Marks may be one of the most seasoned players on the team in terms of experience.

An international relations major, Marks has been playing lacrosse for the past fifteen years. He has enjoyed his years playing lacrosse.

“I like playing lacrosse because of the competitive aspect of it.” Marks said.

Marks came to McDaniel after a successful four year career at St Vincent-St Pallotti High School, a private Catholic high school in Laurel, Maryland.

Right away, Marks was successful. He helped his team win the Conference “B” Title of the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) in only his freshmen season.

Marks also earned individual accomplishments at Pallotti. He was named the team’s most improved player during his sophomore season and parlayed that into being named team MVP in his senior season, ending a remarkable high school career.

Marks has been at his best when he is in the faceoff circle. Last season, he won 48.7% of the face-offs that he took in the 13 games he played in. His most memorable moment in lacrosse also occurred in the face-off circle his junior year of high school when he won every face off he attempted in a game against conference rival John Carroll.

As an international relations major, Marks hopes to one day work for a government agency that deals with issues or conflicts. When he is not playing lacrosse, Marks enjoys playing other sports, watching movies, and hanging out with his friends.

Based on his past successes and experience, Marks’ future at McDaniel looks bright, and he may replicate his successes at Pallotti on the Hill. That would get McDaniel fans to notice him.