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(03/21/17 4:56am)
Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
After starting the season undefeated, the Lions took their first loss against the Colby College Mules, 3-6, at the Student Recreation Center on March 11. The Lions then blasted Goucher College on March 12, 9-0.
The Mules dominated in both doubles and singles. The lone Lions win in the doubles competition came from sophomores Matt Puig and Mitchel Sanders, who defeated junior Shaw Speer and senior Cam Hillier. Junior Chris D’Agostino nearly won his match against Speer until Speer fired back and broke through a deuce.
“Colby College came to compete,” head coach Scott Dicheck said. “Everyone played hard, but there is much to improve and learn early in the season.”
Sophomore Tim Gavornik and senior Mike Stanley were the only victorious Lions in singles. Gavornik and Stanley swept their opponents in straight sets, however, their efforts only decreased the Lions losing margin to three points. The following day, the Lions resurged and shutout Goucher College, 9-0. Sophomore Jack August and Stanley only allowed one point in their 8-1 win against Gophers freshman Slade Dumas and sophomore Elliot Diehl.
In singles, the Lions buried the Gophers and swept each match. In his singles match, Stanley shunned Gophers freshman Frankie Mullinix and earned a shutout in straight sets.
“Stanley gives it his 100 percent at the court,” Dicheck said. “Stanley is a great competitor. No matter who’s at the other end of the court, Stanley will always to be prepared.”
Gavornik only allowed two points against Gophers sophomore Josiah Meekins. Well into March, the Lions look forward to warmer weather, as they hope to transition to the College’s outdoor tennis courts.
(03/07/17 2:52am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
The Lions followed up their first victory and crushed Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham 11-4 at Lions Stadium on Saturday, March 5.
In a chilly afternoon, families and students watched the Lions unleash a total of 34 shots on the Devils and scored 11 goals. Both sophomore midfielder Kathleen Jaeger and freshman attacker Kasey Donoghue led the belligerent offense, scoring three goals apiece.
The Devils could not withstand junior defender Elizabeth Morrison’s pressure as she caused two back-to-back turnovers in the first five minutes.
In the seventh minute, Donoghue netted in the Lions first goal off a long pass from junior midfielder Amanda Muller. The team then struggled to gain possession as two Lions committed fouls.
The Devils later countered in the 12th minute when senior midfielder Frances Maggio shot the ball straight through Lions sophomore goalkeeper Miranda Chrone.
Jaeger then netted in a goal off a free position attempt, pushing the Lions ahead, 2-1. The Devils were never able to respond until late in the second half.
The Lions continued their offensive momentum by having junior attacker Emily Kratz, freshman midfielder Alexandria Fitzpatrick, Jaeger and Donoghue constantly circle around the Devils goal and pass around until there was space to shoot. The tactic was used to pressure the Devil defenders to foul and give free position attempts to the Lions.
The next two Lions goals followed them tactic. Jaeger scored her second goal off another free position attempt while senior attack Mia Blackman hurled in a goal.
With the Lions sitting on comfortable 4-1 lead, the Devils clamped their defense. Devils sophomore goalkeeper Megan Nemeth shutout the Lions for the remainder of the first half. However, the Lions snuck in a last minute goal when Donoghue heaped and ripped a shot from the left.
The Lions offense remained hot in the second half until the Devils scored two consecutive goals at the end of the game.
In the 32th minute, freshman midfielder Allie Gorman shot from the 10-yard line and netted in her first career goal. The Devils nearly scored a minute later when Chrone caught a fast shot by Devils senior attacker Joelle Manganella.
Meanwhile, Nemeth kept deflecting the Lions offense. She grabbed four consecutive saves until Donoghue broke through and scored her their goal of the game. Blackman scooped up the ball in the middle of the field and threw a long pass to Donoghue. Donoghue then skipped through Nemeth on a over-the-head shot.
Morrison then joined in on the offensive bombardment when she cradled past the Devils defense and slipped in a ground shot.
“It all happened so fast,” Morrison said. “I got the ball off the draw and sprinted as fast as I could down the field. I tried to go straight down the middle but their defense forced me a little wide. I still had a good angle so I took my shot from there and scored.”
Jaeger then completed her third goal of the game. She intercepted a pass from the Devils and slammed a shot down the Devils net as the ball bounced into it for a goal.
With five minutes remaining, the Devils scored a second goal when senior midfielder Brienna Reasoner threw a fast shot from a free position attempt. The Lions quickly responded in the following possession. Kratz scored the Lions 10th goal off an assist from Fitzpatrick.
Although the Lions were ahead by nine points in the last two minutes, the Devils continued to pressure them and scored two goals.
On Wednesday, March 7, at 7 p.m., the Lions will compete against Cabrini University at Lions Stadium. The team then plays their first conference match against Ramapo College on Saturday, March 11, at 1 p.m.
(03/07/17 2:47am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
The men’s tennis team began its spring season with three victories, as they beat Chestnut Hill College (6-3), Haverford College (8-1) and Vassar College (8-1).
On Wednesday, March 1, the Lions squared off against the Chestnut Hill College Griffins, who compete in Division II. Heading into the Student Recreation Center, the Griffins were undefeated with a 3-0 record. The Lions were not intimated as sophomore Mitchel Sanders got the Lions first points in singles after defeating Griffins junior Lucas Bocaletto.
“Sanders, along with the rest of the team, are capable beating any opponent,” said head coach Scott Dicheck. “They may have the statistics and records, but everything is settled at the court.”
The Griffins returned the favor in when Griffins sophomore Pierre Kohler defeated senior Jack August. The Lions then dominated the rest of the single matches and won four consecutively.
The team was not as successful in the double matches as the Griffins won two of the three matches. The underclassman duo of sophomore Matt Puig and freshman Gokul Murugesan won their match in two straight sets against Griffins freshman Antoine Gautier and sophomore Victor Love.
The following Saturday, March 4, the men’s tennis team hammered Haverford College at home, 8-1.
The Lions chased away the Black Squirrels and won all the single matches. Junior Chris D’Agostino, sophomore Tim Gavornik and senior Mike Stanley all won their first single matches of the season. The Black Squirrels lone victory came in the double matches when Puig and Gavornik were defeated by Black Squirrels freshman Raja Arul and sophomore Nick Sweeney.
Despite the breezing weather, the Lions continued their hot start and swept the Vassar College Brewers on Sunday, March 5. Like the previous meet, the team dominated the single matches.
Sanders fought in three sets to defeat Brewers senior Nick Litsky. Sanders was close to clinching the victory until Litsky came back by winning the second set, 3-6. In the third set, Sanders narrowly escaped and won the match.
At the doubles competition, the Lions only dropped one match. The duo of Sanders and Stanley were bit by Black Squirrels sophomore Jamie Anderson and Litsky, 8-3.
The Lions are now ranked No. 39 nationally in the NCAA Division III and ranked No. 13 regionally in the Northeast.
“We have a very talented group this season,” Dicheck said. “They are hard working and train vigorously every day. Our goal this year is to keep the team consistent and reach further into the NCAA tournament.”
This spring season, the men’s tennis team will be playing 14 of the 17 meets at home. The Lions will compete against Colby College on Saturday, March 11, in the recreation center at noon. The following Sunday, March 12, the team plays Colby College in the recreation center at noon.
(02/28/17 10:04pm)
Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
The softball team started the 2017 season with two losses against Randolph-Macon College on Sunday, Feb. 26.
Traveling south to Ashland, Va., for a doubleheader, the Lions are returning to the diamond after posting a 30-16 record and reaching to the NCAA regional tournament last season. Meanwhile, the Yellow Jackets finished last season with similar record, 31-13.
At the first game, the Lions offense went on a hot start, scoring three runs in the first inning. With Lions covering second and third base, sophomore infielder Jess McGuire blasted a triple home run, giving the Lions a 3-0 lead.
The Yellow Jackets quickly responded in the following inning when Yellow Jackets junior first baseman Harley Jones launched a double home run, cutting the Lions lead to 3-2. At the bottom of the third inning, the Yellow Jackets used a combination of steals and sacrifice bunts to catch up to the Lions.
Yellow Jackets freshman outfielder Shelby Hill buzzed out the Lions when she hit a single and stole all the way to third base. Afterwards, Jones smacked a bunt, allowing Hill to score and tie the game. A throwing error by the Lions later gave Yellow Jackets freshman infielder Sam Scifres a chance to score from third base.
The Lions were not able to score for the rest of the game, and the Yellow Jackets won, 4-3.
In the next game, the Lions offense was completely shunned by Yellow Jackets, as the Lions lost, 8-0. Yellow Jackets freshman pitcher Cameron Thompson permitted four hits while sophomore pitcher Sara Bielamowicz struggled to contain the Yellow Jackets offense. The fourth inning proved to be difficult for the Lions. The Yellow Jackets pounded them with singles and Bielamowicz issued multiple walks.
Despite the hard loss, the season has only begun for the Lions.
This year’s softball team was ranked second in the New Jersey Athletic Conference preseason poll. The Lions possess a furious offense aided by sophomores outfielder Gaby Bennett and infielder/outfielder Jess Santelli. The two sophomores are looking to improve after being name on the All-NJAC first team last season.
The Lions offense will also feature an incoming sophomore transfer from Rutgers University, outfielder Arielle Couso. At News Brunswick, N.J., Couso competed in 19 games and registered three hits, one steal and one run.
“I personally have been playing softball with Arielle since I was 13 years old,” Santelli said. “Arielle has always had the drive to improve herself defensively and offensively, and she will never stopped improving,” Santelli added. “Last year, we lost our starting right fielder, (senior) Kristen Fitzsimmons and she left a spot that would be very hard to fill.
“However, Arielle has been working extremely hard for that spot and has been doing a great job filling that void. She brings great versatility to our lineup with a quick bat and quick feet, and I look forward to playing with her for years to come.”
After finishing with a 19-5 record on the mound, junior pitcher Sam Platt looks to continue her dominance. She will lead the Lions pitching staff along with freshman Kristen Barrera and Bielamowicz.
Seniors outfielder Nerylix Cerda and infielder Colleen Phelan will support the Lions defense and fuel the offense.
The Lions will be traveling to Kissimmee, Fla., throughout the week of March 11 to compete in a series of games against universities including Westminster, Springfield and McDaniel colleges.
The team is scheduled to play its first conference match against Rutgers University-Newark on April 1.
“With all of the knowledge and experience that I gained from freshman year, my main goal for the 2017 season is to come out as a leader,” Santelli said. “A leader for the team, but more importantly a leader to the freshmen since I was lucky enough to be led by six very talented and knowledgeable seniors last year.”
(02/28/17 7:39am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
After posting a 20-2 record and reaching the Elite Eight round of the NCAA national tournament last season, the Lions are setting their eyes on winning the national championship this year. In their opening regular season game at Lions Stadium, the Lions established their ambition on Saturday, Feb. 25, by devouring the Neumann University Knights, 15-3.
In less than 30 seconds, junior attacker Emily Katz hurled a shot into the Knights net for the Lions first goal of the season. Three minutes later, sophomore midfielder Kathleen Jaeger scored the Lions second goal off a free position.
The Knights were immediately overwhelmed by the speedy Lions. Junior defender Elizabeth Morrison wasted no time with pressuring the Knights, as she initiated turnovers and fed passes to either junior midfielder Amanda Muller, senior attacker Mia Blackman or Jaeger. No matter the method, the Lions always got the ball through the net.
By the eighth minute, sophomore midfielder Erin Harvey and Muller joined on the scoring blitz, hurling balls into the Knights net in back-to-back plays. Afterwards, the Knights responded as sophomore midfielder Kaitlyn Conrad scored through a free position opportunity.
The Lions offense never stopped producing, as Jaeger scored four goals, while Kratz and Blackman netted a pair of goals. By the end of the first half, the Lions sat on a comfortable 11-2 lead with another half remaining to clinch the victory.
In the second half, the Lions offense slowed down as more underclassman were introduced. Kratz and Blackman were not finished and scored more goals. Blackman finished the match with five goals, only one goal ahead of Kratz and Jaeger.
In the 40th minute, freshman midfielder Chloe Pottillo scored her first career goal as a Lion when she intercepted a pass. Although the match entered into stalemate, the Lions captured their first season win, 15-3.
The Lions are at the dawn of an enduring journey. This year’s schedule will feature a heap of top contenders in the country, such as defending champions Middlebury College.
The Lions are ranked seventh in the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association national preseason poll. The team will begin the season with six consecutive home games at Lions Stadium.
“Making it to the Elite Eight was good, but clearly something needs to change if we want to reach further into the tournament,” said Brooke Lionetti, sophomore defender. “I think developing a fluid communication style and working cohesively with each other will be key to our success.”
Many important players from last year’s team are returning. Morrison will lead the Lions defense as the reigning IWLCA Division III Defensive Player of the Year. The Lions defense will also be fortified by senior defenders LeeAnn Bak and Ellie O’Neill.
The most essential part of this year’s defense will be sophomore goalkeeper Miranda Chrone, who only permitted 4.03 goals per game last season.
Despite the Lions already stellar defense, Morrison plans to build the defense to an historic caliber.
“TCNJ had the lowest goals against average (GAA) in Division III last year, (and) the team was one goal short of having the lowest GAA in TCNJ/TSC history,” Morrison said. “This year, I would really like our team to get an even lower GAA average and have more shutouts than last year. As (United States women’s national soccer team defender) Christie Rampone said, ‘If we score, we might win. If they never score, we can’t lose.’”
Meanwhile, the Lions offense will be fueled by Muller and Kratz.
“We lost three amazing seniors last year, but have 13 freshmen to make up for it,” Morrison said. “We have a lot of big games ahead of us this season, and we plan to focus on each game as it comes.”
With the first victory sealed in, the Lions will compete against Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham on Saturday, March 4, at 1 p.m. at Lions Stadium.
(02/08/17 4:56pm)
Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
The men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams capped off their regular season schedule, both hoeing down the William Paterson Pioneers at home on Saturday, Feb. 4.
At the last home meet of season, the men’s senior swimmers and divers displayed their dominance. The Lions eventually crushed the Pioneers, 148-83.
Senior Sean Johnson cruised to first place in the 1000-meter freestyle event and recorded a time of 10:59.49. Meanwhile, senior Scott Vitabile snagged first in the 100-backstroke and touched the line with a time of 53.93. Not to be outdone by his fellow seniors, senior Ryan Gajdzisz won the 100-breast and 50-free events.
“Gajdzisz and Vitabile are both NCAA champions and multiple all-Americans and set the bar really high for everyone else,” said men’s swimming and diving head coach Brian Bishop. “Nesbitt and Masciandaro are having the best seasons of their career and Johnson brings a lot of experience as a transfer from Ohio State.”
At the diving board, senior David Adlai-Gail was allergic to second place. He placed first in the 1- and 3-meter boards, scoring a combined 454.43 points. The seniors were not finished with their demolition until the 400-free relay. The team of senior Andrew Nesbitt, Vitabile and sophomore Alex Skoog raced to the top, recording a time of 3:14.75. At the 200-medley relay, the underclassmen team of junior Ryan Hackett and the freshmen trio of Zach Volm, Derek Kneisel and Elias O’Connor claimed first place.
The women’s team also had a similar experience of washing out the Pioneers with a final score of 175-98. Seniors Sarah Grassi and Brenna Strollo displayed one last great performance at Packer Hall. Grassi graced the diving board and won the both the 1-meter and 3-meter events. At the same time, Strollo led the school of swimmers in the 200-medley and 400 freestyle relays. Although the seniors were meant to shine in their last meet, the juniors also added a grand splash of their own.
Starting with junior Marta Lawler, she captured first in the 100-breaststroke and 200-freestyle. In the midst, junior Jill Galindo finished first at the 100-back and junior Cassidy Bergeron won the 100-free. Junior Ali Huber also conquered a pair of events, winning the 100-butterfly and 1000-freestyle.
The only underclassman to win events were sophomore Hailey Thayer at the 200-back and freshman Kaiza Moore at the 50-free. Both the men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams are scheduled to compete in the Metropolitan Conference Championship at Rutgers University on Friday, Feb. 17. The teams are looking to claim first place after finishing in second last year.
“Our focus is on using METS as tool to qualify for NCAA’s,” said Bishop. “If we win METS that’s an added bonus. We would certainly like a little redemption after last year though.”
(02/05/17 3:14am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, roses sellout, restaurants fill every reservation and boxes of chocolate pour out of stores. You are meticulously planning a date, a gift or a kiss for your partner. In the midst of all this effort to prove your love for another, did you ever stop to think, “Do I ever appreciate myself?”
As college students, we’re too preoccupied to ever really consider our own feelings.
It’s not easy to evaluate your happiness when you’re balancing clubs, coursework, internships, jobs and social activities. There might come a time that your grade point average drops, applications are rejected and club’s events are scrapped.
Classes become difficult. Every exam turns into a giant boulder you’re desperately trying to escape like Indiana Jones. Proposals are quickly dismissed at club meetings.
You assume every shortcoming was your fault and that you have disappointed everyone in the process.
While lifting all of your burden, you try to fix everything to the extent of mistreating yourself. Less sleep, time with friends and relaxation. Your body bares all of the physical costs.
Suddenly stress punches into your head and a lingering doubt emerges. Nothing feels great anymore as life becomes mundane and you constantly play the blame game. Just another failed exam, shaky interview, unproductive meeting and pretentious lecture.
Having self-love becomes essential in these situations.
In the midst of denying every failure, you forget about who are — your accomplishments, cherished memories, dreams and more. You forget about why you go to the College in the first place.
Why do you wake up at dawn to go to class or practice? Why are you willing to dedicate endless hours to a club, greek organization, job or team. In my case, why do I spend so much time at The Signal office every Monday night? Why are you burning the midnight oil to memorize a theory, perfect a technique or beat a personal record? All of this toil does not soil your dignity. Rather, you do it because you love it — repeating that statement is a good step to nurturing happiness.
I love what I do. As the sports editor, I love writing about almost every sports team on campus. I love having friends and professors to look up to and laugh, learn and debate with one another.
I love having my hard work thrown at me and being told it can improve. Most of all, I love having the chance to pursue a higher education and a dream, especially when so many are not blessed with the same opportunities.
So, pick up your head and take a moment to breathe. Tell your loved ones that you love them as much as you love yourself. A little self-love everyday eases the pressure off the daily grind.
With much love,
— Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
(01/31/17 6:50am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
The Lions were busy at Packer Hall on Saturday, Jan. 28, and Sunday, Jan. 29, hosting the New England Wrestling Association /Metro meet on Saturday and defeating the Springfield College Pride on Sunday.
The Lions went 2-1, defeating Williams College, 28-22, and Bridgewater State University, 22-21. The nationally seventh ranked Roger Williams college gave the Lions loss, defeating them, 26-9.
The Lions took control on the mat against Williams College and churned in six match wins. Senior Nick Herring grabbed a major decision win over Purple Cows freshman Luke Anselmi.
Afterwards, the Lions encountered tough competition against the Roger Williams College Hawks. The Hawks pestered the Lions as they only crawled three match wins. Freshman Anthony Gagliano and sophomore JT Beirne won on decisions, while Herring tussled out his win against Hawks senior Alec Golner.
“I respect Roger Williams (College),” head coach Joe Galante said. “They are a very talented team, and I’m glad the team had the opportunity to compete against them.”
The Lions then pressed a close victory the Bridgewater State University Bears. The Bears trampled the Lions early until sophomore Ryan Erwin won a major decision over Bears freshman Logan Larsen. Freshmen Marcus Sherrod and Dan Kilroy followed up with two more match wins. With the victory, Kilroy has now accumulated an impressive 11 wins.
The matchup was ultimately decided when junior Kyle Cocozza defeated Bears sophomore Tom Arseneault.
The following day, the Lions defeated the Springfield College Pride, 30-19. Earlier in January, the Lions encountered the Pride at the National Wrestling Coaches Association Dual meet. Since then, the Pride have achieved their 1,000 program victory, the first Division III wrestling program to do so.
The Lions lost no momentum and pulled in six match wins against the Pride. Both sophomore Luis Rivera and Erwin got major decision wins. Bears senior Zach Joseph then secured a decision win, cutting the Lions lead to 14-9.
Immediately, the Lions responded with three straight victories, scoring 30 points and asserting a hard deficit on the Bears. Herring grabbed a major decision win against Bears sophomore Aarin Feliz.
Kilroy followed up with a huge pin against Bears freshman Ryan Errico. With the Lions leading 30-9, the Bears were only able to crawl up to 19 points.
After many matches in Packer Hall, the Lions head west to Pennsylvania this weekend. On Friday, Feb. 3, the Lions travel to Wilkes University. On Saturday, Feb. 4, the Lions will compete at the Messiah College Open.
(01/31/17 6:35am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
At home, the men’s and women’s swimming teams dashed past the Stevens Institute of Technology Ducks on Friday night.
The men’s swimming team captured its first meet victory since its home invitational on Dec. 4. The Lions dominated throughout the meet, beating the Ducks 172-89.
Starting at the 200-medley relay, the team of senior Adam Coppola, senior Sean Johnson, sophomore Alex Skoog and freshman Derek Kniesel swam past the Ducks and recorded a time of 1:34.43.
The 200-medley relay was followed up with another win at the 200-free relay by the senior squad of Andrew Nesbitt, Ryan Gajdzisz, Scott Vitabile and Coppola.
“It’s easy to get motivated when you are competing with a great program like Stevens,” said Brian Bishop, men’s swimming head coach.
The Lions team strength was further showcased at the 500-free and 50-fly. Gajdzisz, freshman Harrison Yi and junior Logan Barnes claimed the first three spots of the
500-free race.
Meanwhile, senior Vince Masciandaro, junior Chris O’Sullivan, Johnson and Nesbitt tramped the Ducks on the 50-fly, claiming all the first top four finishes.
“The upperclassmen are able to set the tone for the underclassmen, which allows for the younger guys to develop without being expected to carry the team,” said Bishop.
At the women’s meet, the Lions prevailed over injuries and grinded out a 147-137 victory over the Ducks. The underclassman carried the Lions through the races.
Sophomore Hailey Thayer seized first place at the 50-backstroke with a time of 29.44. Freshman Annie Menninger performed tremendously for the Lions. She won the 1000-freestyle and the 50-breastroke and finished third at the 100-breastroke.
Experience swimmers also played a crucial role. Senior Brenna Stollo snatched first at the 100-back and junior Ali Huber claimed first at the 100-free.
At the diving board, senior Sarah Grassi and junior Hannah Raymond dove to the top finishes. Grassi brought first place at the 1- and 3-meter diving events.
“Sarah and Hannah put in a lot of training over winter break,” said Jennifer Harnett, women’s swimming head coach. “They personally performed really well on the boards this past weekend.”
Both the men and women set their ambitions toward the Metropolitan Conference Championships this February.
“It was a non-conference meet so we will swim right through it and swim some people around in events. It’s just another opportunity for us to have some good races in before we start to taper.” said Harnett.
“Our focus is more in (Metropolitan) without a doubt,” Bishop said. “(Metropolitan) will be our teams opportunity to qualify for NCAAs, and that’s the ultimate goal.”
Both the men’s and women’s swimming teams host their last conference meet of the season on Saturday, Feb. 4, at 2 p.m. against the William Paterson University Pioneers.
(01/31/17 6:29am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
The Lions extended their winning streak to seven games this week, defeating Stockton University, 77-71 on Wednesday, Jan. 25, and New Jersey City University, 75-69 on Saturday, Jan. 28.
Being at home, the Lions won two conference matches to propel themselves into second place in the New Jersey Athletic Conference.
The Lions began the week with win against the Ospreys led by senior guard Eric Klacik’s 31 point performance.
The team started slow. Sophomore forward Jordan Glover missed a layup and a three point shot until Klacik drained a three pointer in the 18th minute.
Klacik followed up with another three pointer with an assist by junior guard Eric Murdock Jr. After Klacik’s short burst, both teams endured constant fouls, turnovers and substitutions.
Three minutes later, the Ospreys caught a fastbreak as sophomore guard/forward Brandon Hamilton charged into the hoop for a layup.The Lions quickly countered. Senior forward Corey Stanford collected a rebound and shoveled a pass to Murdock Jr.
Murdock Jr.’s shot missed and Klacik repossessed the ball at the arc. Another three pointer for Klacik.
“Eric was unbelievable for us,” Brackett said. “He’s one of the best shooters in the conference and it showed that night. It’s a lot of fun to watch.”
Afterwards, Murdock Jr held the Lions offense together with a layup and a three point shot. However, the Ospreys began to attack more. Ospreys’ freshman forward Steve Ferebee took advantage of senior forward Bobby Brackett’s physical play, getting fouled and making in two free throws. Meanwhile, the Ospreys duo of junior forward Marcus Harmon and junior forward Darius Jerkins caused turnovers.
By the end of first half, the Lions were leading, 36-32. The Lions offense woke furiously in the second half. Brackett completed a layup followed by Stanford throwing in a long three-point shot.
Both teams were competitive at the 15th minute, with the Lions only leading by a point, 44-43. After being fouled by Ospreys junior forward Blake Rossell, junior forward Elias Bermudez dished in two free throws. A minute later Klacik struck again, completing two consecutive three-pointers.
With five minutes remaining, the Lions and Ospreys were locked into a tie at 64. Brackett then proceeded to catch fire, pooling in two jump shots, two layups and a free throw. Murdock Jr. sealed in the 77-71 victory with two consecutive free throws.
On Saturday, Jan. 28, the Gothic Knights voyaged to Packer Hall for a crucial conference match. The Lions and Gothic Knights were dueling for second place in the NJAC.
Brackett wasted no time after the tip over and scored a layup.The Gothic Knights immediately countered when senior point guard Ata Robinson threw a distant three pointer. Momentarily, Brackett continued the joust against the Gothic Knights, scoring back-to-back free throws and hauling in a layup.
In the 15th minute, sophomore guard Kevin Bloodgood and Murdock Jr. joined in on the crusade. Both scored layups and increased the Lions lead, 15-10.
Afterwards, Gothic Knights’ graduate student forward Chinwe Wosu and sophomore point guard Shaquan Worthy fueled a comeback. Wosu dished in two free throws and a layup. The Lions and Gothic Knights then spent the remaining four minutes of half missing shots. At the beginning of the second half, both teams were locked on a tie at 32. The Gothic Knights struck first when freshman point guard Sam Toney leaped in a jump shot and a layup. The Lions quickly caught up when Klacik bounced in a layup and free throw.
With the second half dwindling down, Gothic Knights sophomore guard Joseph Kelley swapped out the ball from Murdock Jr and unleashed a dunk. The Lions and Gothic Knights were tied at 67 with less than three minutes left. Murdock Jr. raced against the clock and pulled the Lions ahead to a 75-69 win, scoring three free throws and scoring a three pointer.
“NJCU is a very tough team and lost by 2 the first time we played,” said Brackett. “This time, it was a pretty simplistic game. It was close for most of the game and it could’ve gone either way. We were happen to finish the game out a little stronger than them and we were able to pull it out at the end.”
On Wednesday, Feb. 1, the Lions travel south to Glassboro, N.J., for a match against Rowan University, and on Saturday, Feb. 4, the Lions await their home matchup against the Ramapo College Roadrunners at 3 p.m.
(01/24/17 9:48pm)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
After starting the season with seven wins and three losses, the Lions carried their winning momentum into January and accumulated a five-game winning streak.
Despite winning 13 games this season, the Lions are not the hottest team in the New Jersey Athletic Conference.
On Jan. 7, the Lions visited the 19th nationally ranked, unbeaten Ramapo College Roadrunners. Both teams unloaded their offenses as the Roadrunners defeated the Lions, 98-90.
“Ramapo is a very good and balanced team,” senior forward Bobby Brackett said. “They have a lot of good pieces, and they play very well together, so they’re a tough matchup for any team.”
In less than five minutes, the Lions leaped toward a 14-7 lead. Sophomore forward Jordan Glover further stretched the lead with a three-point long shot. After a brief timeout, Roadrunner junior forward Nick Stanek scored two consecutive jumpers. By the 13th minute, the Roadrunners caught up the Lions and were tied at 16.
The Lions immediately counterattacked with a seven-point run. Sophomore guard Kevin Bloodgood halted the Roadrunners offense by snatching a steal and blocking a rebound. Meanwhile, senior forward Bobby Brackett led the Lions offensive charge with two jumper shots.
However, the Roadrunners reversed the tide and secured a 41-35 lead at the end of the first half.
The Lions could not stop the Roadrunner offense in the second half. In the 21th minute, junior forward Christopher Moseley swiped the ball and unleashed a dunk.
Three minutes later, Glover slammed a dunk of his own with an assist by junior guard Eric Murdock Jr. Momentarily, Roadrunner freshman guard Patrick Peterson pushed the Lions deficit, 60-51, by scoring twice on jumper shots.
The Roadrunners began to run away and demonstrated their offensive capability when Moseley threw down another dunk in the 7th minute. As the second half approached its halfway point, the Lions woke up. Junior forward Elias Bermudez led the rally by scoring pairs of jumper shots and free throws.
Despite the offensive surge, Moseley kept extending the Roadrunner’s lead, swishing in two consecutive jumper shots. Senior guard Eric Klacik prevented a blowout from occurring by hurling in two three-point shots in the 16th minute. The Lions spent the remainder of match attempting to catch up to the Roadrunners like Wile E. Coyote. Nevertheless, the Lions were defeated by the unbeaten Roadrunners, 98-90.
The loss would mark the beginning of the Lions current five-game winning streak.
The Lions crushed the Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Devils, 87-65, on Jan. 9 at Packer Hall. The match was highlighted by
Brackett’s outstanding performance, scoring 25 points and swooping in 10 rebounds.
The Lions then spent the rest of the week defeating conference opponents Rutgers University-Newark, 64-57, and Montclair State University, 82-74.
“We’re playing well right now for sure,” Brackett said. “In this conference, if we aren’t ready mentally, we can lose by a lot to any team.”
The Lions tough mentality carried their next two road wins at Rutgers University-Camden and Kean University.
On Jan. 18, the Lions defeated Rutgers University-Camden, 73-64. Brackett reached a milestone in the 10th minute when he received a pass from Bermudez and scored his 1,000th career point on his signature jumper shot. He now joins the ranks of 22 Lions in the College’s men’s basketball program who scored 1,000 points or more.
The Lions won their fifth straight game on Saturday, Jan. 21, defeating the Kean University Cougars, 70-63.
With students returning to campus this week, the Lions hope to showcase their winning momentum when the Stockton University Ospreys fly over to Packer Hall on Wednesday, Jan. 25, at 6 p.m.
On Saturday, Jan. 28, the Lions look to avenge their earlier 54-52 loss to the conference leaders, the New Jersey University Gothic Knights, when they invade Packer Hall at 1 p.m.
“We know we can still play better as a team and that will improve with every practice and every game we play,” Brackett said. “We hope to hit our peak once the playoffs begin and I think we’re in a good spot right now.
(01/24/17 9:38pm)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
At the start of 2017, both the men’s and women’s swimming teams encountered hard competition and endured multiple losses.
After starting the season undefeated, the men’s swimming team has dropped losses against West Chester University, 172-90, John Hopkins University, 156-103 and Rowan University, 178-122. At the same time, the women’s swimming team conceded a 190-94 loss to Rowan University.
On Jan. 7, the Men’s swimming team traveled south to Baltimore to compete against Division II No. 18 West Chester University and No. 5 John Hopkins University. Although outmatched, the Lions showed their resilience against the Golden Rams and Blue Jays.
Junior Adam Coppola, senior Andrew Nesbitt, sophomore Alex Skoog and senior Ryan Gajdzisz placed first in the 200-free relay with a time of 1:26.01.
At the 200-freestyle, freshman Harrison Yi finished in second place with a time of 1:44.61 followed by Skoog in third and sophomore John Gregory in fourth.
Meanwhile, senior Scott Vitabile secured third place in the 100-freestyle with a time of 47.68 followed by Nesbitt.
“We faced three nationally ranked programs and while each meet posed different challenges, our focus for the NCAA meet has not changed,” said Brian Bishop, men’s swimming head coach. “Our schedule is probably one of the toughest in the nation.”
The men’s swimming team skid continued last Saturday, Jan. 21, when they endured a road loss to the 13th ranked Rowan University Profs, 178-122.
Skoog finished first in the 100 and 200-backstroke event with times of 53.21 and 1:54.12,respectively.
At the 400-free relay, Vitabile, Skoog and Gajdzisz and Nesbitt captured first place with a time of 3:06.59.
“Rowan was especially tough as it was the first loss to an NJAC school since the early ’90s,” Bishop said. “Rowan did a great job and won some close races that ultimately decided the meet. While the three losses were tough, they have no impact on NCAA qualifying. If we swim fast at METS, then we will be in prime position for NCAA’s.”
While the men’s swimming team were battling the Profs, the women’s swimming team also endured to a loss to the lady Profs.
Senior Sarah Grassi claimed first place at the 1- and 3-meter diving events, scoring 312 and 277.80 points, respectively. Her performance earned her the New Jersey Athletic Conference’s “Diver of the Week” honor for the week of Monday, Jan. 23. In the midst, sophomore Gabi Denicola finished second place at the 1000-freestyle and 500-freestyle.
Junior Debbie Meskin capped off the meet when she garnered second in the 200-butterfly with a time of 2:18.26.
The men’s swimming team looks to capture its first victory in 2017 when Stevens Institute of Technology visit Packer Hall on Friday, Jan. 27, at 6 p.m. At the same time, the women will also be competing against the Lady Ducks.
“Stevens is ranked 16th in the nation, so we will face another tough foe on Friday night,” Bishop said. “We will continue working hard and fully expect to swim well. If a few things go our way early and we can catch some momentum, we will have a great chance to win. They are a tough team so we will need to have our A-game.”
(01/24/17 8:50pm)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
The wrestling team was one of busiest teams at the College during winter break.
The Lions achieved their 700th program victory in dual meet play, finished eighth place at the Budd Whitehill Duals and won against the United States Merchant Marine Academy and the College of Mount Saint Vincent, while conceding losses to Centenary and New York universities.
The Lions traveled to Fort Wayne, Ind., on Jan. 5 to compete in the NWCA Duals meet.
The Lions ultimately placed ninth out of 22 teams after dropping a dual to Baldwin Wallace University on Jan. 6.
The Lions first lost to the Concordia-Wisconsin University Falcons, 15-22.
After the loss, the Lions followed up with two consecutive victories against Springfield College, 22-18, and Concordia-Moorhead College, 23-18.
Erwin won three consecutive matches during the meet. His performance garnered the College’s “Athlete of the Week” honor for the week of Jan. 9.
The celebration was short-lived when the Baldwin Wallace University Yellow Jackets defeated the Lions, 28-10.
The Lions fell behind early when freshman Dan Ortega was pinned down by Yellow Jackets junior Chris Doyle at the 125-pound matchup. After three matches, junior Luke Balina grabbed the Lions their first lead, 10-9, with a major decision victory against the Yellow Jackets sophomore Richard Burke.
Afterwards, the Yellow Jackets overwhelmed the Lions as they won the next five matches.
The week of Jan. 13, the Lions trekked to Williamsport, Pa., to compete in the Budd Whitehill Duals at Lycoming College. The Lions faced a similar result, finishing eighth out of 16 teams.
The Lions started 2-1, defeating Thiel College 35-16 and the Rochester Institute of Technology 20-13 while conceding a close loss against the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, 21-20.
The following day, the Lions endured two tough losses to the Ohio Northern University Polar Bears, 33-12 and the Millikin University Big Blue, 30-16.
Senior Nick Herring, senior Sigala Fosam and Erwin won their matches, while the Polar Bears stomped on the Lions for the remaining ten matches.
The Lions then fell into a 16-0 deficit against the Big Blue. Sophomore JT Beirne gained the Lions first points, beating Big Blue sophomore Cooper Collings. Junior Kellen Whitney, freshman Dan Kilroy and senior Pat Schinder were able to pick up victories, but the deficit was too much to overcome.
On Jan. 17, the Lions defeated the United States Merchant Marine Academy, 32-10 at home. Afterwards, the Lions endured consecutive losses against Centenary University, 28-13 and New York University, 21-17. The Lions had to forfeit in two weight classes because of injuries against New York University.
“We’ll been hampered with injuries this season,” head coach Joe Galante said. “Yet our team is still competing hard. Our team captains are setting the example for underclassmen.”
Afterwards, the Lions were able to cruise through the College of Mount Saint Vincent Dolphins 40-13, as the Dolphins forfeited five matches.
“Getting healthy and creating a family atmosphere within the team is the priority right now,” Galante said. “It’s the team mentality that will make us successful for the rest of the season.”
On Saturday, Jan. 28, the College will the hosting the annual New England Wrestling Association/Metro Dual meet at noon. The Lions will be competing against Williams College, Centenary College, Roger Williams University, City of New York-Hunter College and Bridgewater State University. The following day, the Lions will battle the Springfield College Pride at noon in Packer Hall.
(01/24/17 3:38am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
Time to watch the Super Bowl and… it’s the same teams again, isn’t it?
After the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs on Jan. 15, the conference championship matchups were set with familiar teams: the Steelers vs. the New England Patriots and the Atlanta Falcons vs. the Green Bay Packers.
The Patriots will be competing in the AFC championship for its sixth consecutive time.
The last time the Patriots did not get this far was in 2011 when the team was defeated by the New York Jets in the divisional round. The Packers have competed in the playoffs annually since 2009.
Meanwhile, the Falcons are attempting to reach to the Super Bowl for the first time since 1999. Clearly, there is not much parity in the NFL.
Fans are most likely to see Tom Brady in the AFC championship. Occasionally, there will be one-hit-wonder teams, such as the Carolina Panthers in 2016 or the Baltimore Ravens in 2012. Otherwise, the contenders have been predictable.
However, the predictability is worse in the NBA.
Lebron James has always led the Miami Heat or Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA finals every year since 2011. Western conference teams like the San Antonio Spurs and the Golden State Warriors have dominated the league in recent memory.
On the other hand, teams such as the Brooklyn Nets, Charlotte Hornets, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers and Sacramento Kings have not been relevant for years.
It is difficult for these teams to compete against phenomenal players such as Stephen Curry, Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant. Hopefully Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo can ignite competition in the future, though.
There is a high likelihood that there will be a second rematch between the Cavaliers and the Warriors this year.
Both teams are currently on top of their conference standings. Since the 2016 NBA Finals, the Warriors added Durant to its starting lineup, while the Cavaliers recently signed Kyle Korver.
A model example for parity in a professional sports league is MLB.
Last October, fans were delighted as the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Indians fought hard to erase their historic championship droughts. Moreover, the 2015 World Series featured the Kansas City Royals winning its first championship since 1985 against the resurgent New York Mets.
As a New York Yankees fan, I love watching so many different teams produce magical moments, such as David Freese’s home run in Game 6 of the 2011 World Series. I can’t really predict who will compete in the 2017 World Series, but I hope it will be as exciting as last year’s.
While I was not there to witness the Yankees dynasty of the late 1990s, watching baseball would not be fun if the eventual winner was predetermined.
Another league that is unpredictable is the NHL.
Since 2010, teams like the Philadelphia Flyers, Vancouver Canucks, New Jersey Devils, New York Rangers and Tampa Bay Lightning have competed in the Stanley Cup finals. Three teams have always emerged victorious since then — with the exception to the Boston Bruins in 2011 — the Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings and Chicago Blackhawks. The last time these three teams did not win was when the Detriot Red wings won in 2008. I am not suggesting that the NBA and NFL should be more like MLB or NHL, but it would be more fascinating to see a greater variety of teams duking it out in the playoffs instead of being able to predict the champions from the start.
(12/18/16 8:13pm)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
The men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams emerged victorious in the TCNJ Invitational during the weekend of Friday, Dec. 2.
After scratching a close win against New York University, the men’s team torpedoed to first place against the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, University of Bridgeport, Sarah Lawrence College, West Chester University and East Stroudsburg University.
In the 200 freestyle event, the experienced squad of seniors Andrew Nesbitt, Scott Vitabile and Ryan Gajdzisz joined junior Adam Coppola and surged to first place with a time of 1:23.20. By the end of the meet, the Lions accumulated 441 points — 212 points ahead of the second place University of Bridgeport Purple Knights.
Meanwhile, the women ultimately pulled a close first-place finish, scoring 57 points more than the East Stroudsburg University Warriors.
The Lions knew they were in for a competitive invitational starting in the 400-yard medley relay. The veteran team of juniors Ali Huber, Debbie Meskin and Marta Lawler and senior Brenna Strollo finished a mere tenth of a second ahead of University of Bridgeport University with a time of 4:00.54.
On Saturday, Dec. 4, the men’s team left no doubt of their 12th ranked national status. At the 400 individual medley, the Lions filled the first three places and gained 53 points with the trio of junior Logan Barnes and sophomores Sam Maquet and John Gregory.
Vitabile secured first place in the 100 butterfly with a time of 50:20. Freshman Harrison Yi also grabbed first place in the 200-yard freestyle with a time of 1:41.23. Yi’s performance at the invitational earned him his sixth consecutive New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Rookie of the Week honor.
“Harrison is a very talented swimmer with tremendous work ethic,” head coach Brian Bishop said. “He has some very successful teammates in Vitabile, Gajdzisz and Barnes who push him every day in practice. Harrison has a very bright future ahead of him.”
The Lions were an ocean apart from the competition as they scored 982 points — 551 points ahead of the second place U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.
“These guys are very selfless and always look at the big picture,” Bishop said.
At the women’s side, the Lions began to build a lead with total of 636 points. The Lions pushed hard for a second-place finish under the efforts of freshman Annie Menninger, junior Marta Lawler and sophomore Gabi Denicola.
By Sunday, Dec. 4, the men’s swimming team capped off its first-place team victory, scoring a total of 1,486 points.
In the 100 freestyle, the Lions represented the top seven places with Vitabile leading the pride and swimming with a time of 45.92.
At the last event, the 400 freestyle medley, Nesbitt, Gajdzisz, Vitabile and sophomore Alex Skoog finished 15 seconds ahead of the Merchant Marines with a time of 3:04.40.
The women also came out with a first-place finish on the final day. Meskin accomplished a personal record of 2:10.85 in the 200 fly and swam to first place.
At the diving board, junior Hannah Raymond reached to second place and scored 267.53. Senior Sarah Grassi followed in third place, scoring 262.95. Raymond’s diving performance garnered her an NJAC Diver of the Week honor.
The men’s swimming and diving teams return to the pool on Saturday, Jan. 7, at Johns Hopkins University to compete against West Chester University. The women’s swimming and diving teams return later on Wednesday, Jan 21. to compete at Rowan University.
(12/06/16 5:07am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
The Lions continue their blazing start to the season with consecutive wins against New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) opponents. After falling to Skidmore College, 84-96, on Monday, Nov. 28, the Lions defeated Stockton University, 66-62, two days later. The following Saturday, Dec. 3, the Lions crushed Kean University, 77-43.
In Saratoga Springs, N.Y., the Lions could not keep up with the Skidmore College Thoroughbreds consistent shooting led by sophomore guard Edvinas Rupkus’s 37-point performance. The Lions fell to a 6-2 deficit in the beginning. The Thoroughbreds senior guard Aldin Medunjanin was the mailman of his team’s offense with five assists in the first half.
Senior forward Bobby Brackett played physical against the Thoroughbreds as he registered a double-double performance.
During the game, Brackett recorded his 672th rebound, passing Bill Burr (’99) and becoming fourth in the Lions all-time rebounding list.
The Lions offense stumbled in the second half, while the Thoroughbreds hung on until the 96-84 result. Senior forward Corey Stanford and Brackett missed back-to-back layup attempts during the first two minutes of the second half. By the 25th minute, the Thoroughbreds junior center Marcus Jackson and Rupkus sunk in three layups and the Thoroughbreds lead grew to 58-38.
Even though junior guard Eric Murdock and Stanford fought hard in the second half, the Thoroughbreds remained ahead and almost reached 100 points.
“We can improve on so much,” Brackett said. “I don’t even think we realize how good we can be. There have been signs of us playing better together but we have yet to play our best for an entire game.”
After the loss, the Lions journeyed to Galloway, N.J., to compete against the Stockton University Ospreys: the defending NJAC champions who defeated them in last season’s NJAC final. Unlike the finals match the previous February, the Lions came out with a 66-62 victory.
“Going into the Stockton game we definitely had a little extra motivation since they beat us in the conference championship last season,” Brackett said. “It’s always fun playing against them and it was no different this time.”
Like the previous match against Skidmore, the Lions quickly fell 0-8 deficit. Ospreys sophomore guard Kashaun Barnes was the centerpiece of his team’s offense. Barnes twice shoveled a pass to senior guard Tom Catanoso as he threw in two three-pointers.
Starting in the 10th minute, the Lions furiously erased their deficit thanks to Murdock. The Lions finished the first half only three points behind, 31-28.
The Ospreys responded immediately in the second half with a 12-4 run. Ospreys sophomore guard/forward Brandon Hamilton speared through the Lions defense and scored 10 points on multiple jumpers. With 13 minutes remaining, the Lions found themselves far behind, 47-36.
The Lions began to rally when Bermudez leaped for a layup. Murdock instantly followed up with a pair of three-pointers behind the arc. Meanwhile, Ospreys junior forward Darius Jerkins slowed the Lions momentum by forcing fouls and draining free throws. By the fifth minute, the Lions were only trailing by three points.
Two minutes later, sophomore guard Joe Montano fed a pass to Murdock, who proceeded to tie the match, 62-62, with a three-pointer. Afterwards, the Lions built their first lead of the match and won, 66-62.
After the close game, the Lions returned to Packer Hall and crushed the Kean University Cougars, 77-43. The Lions began the match with a 9-0 lead and never looked back. At the beginning of the second half, Murdock swapped the ball from Cougar’s sophomore guard Jodrell Thompson and recorded his 100th career steal.
The Lions remain home for the week as they take on Delaware Valley University Aggies at Packer Hall on Monday, Dec. 5, 8 p.m. Later, on Wednesday, Dec. 7, the Lions compete in another conference matchup at home against the Rowan University Profs at 8 p.m. The Lions then finish the week away at New Jersey City University on Saturday, Dec. 10.
(11/29/16 4:44am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
The Lions were off to a good start after defeating the John Jay College Bloodhounds, 75-58, in their home opener on Tuesday, Nov. 15. The team followed with a 79-68 win against the State University of New York (SUNY) Geneseo Knights, before conceding a 68-74 loss to Pennsylvania State University-Harrisburg on Sunday, Nov. 20.
The team then proceeded to demolish the Rutgers University-Camden Raptors, 106-66, at Packer Hall on Tuesday, Nov. 22, giving them a 3-1 record.
Spectators and students filled the gym in anticipation for the Lions first game against the Bloodhounds.
The home crowd not only witnessed a 75-58 victory, but saw the team for what it is: an offensive juggernaut.
Both squads were equal in the first half as the Lions and the Bloodhounds committed turnovers on one another.
Senior forward Bobby Brackett scored the team’s first points of the season with a thunderous two-handed dunk. The Bloodhounds responded by scoring 10 points on a series of layups and three-pointers.
By the 14th minute, the Lions caught up with the Bloodhounds and scored eight consecutive points, uninterrupted.
The Lions spent the rest of half defending their lead, while Bloodhounds head coach Ryan Hyland attempted to slow down the clock by issuing three substitutes.
In the second half, the Lions ran away with their lead as the team relied on rebounds, layups and jumpers to deliver the victory. Senior transfer Corey Stanford sputtered as he dished out 20 points. With defensive coverage from junior guard Erick Murdock Jr. and Brackett, Stanford was able to easily execute layups. At the same time, Murdock Jr. and Brackett acted as a one-two punch on breakaways and turnovers.
“Corey is a great player and an unbelievable addition to our team,” said Brackett. “We are a very lucky program to have a guy like Corey join us this year and he will be a huge part of our team the entire season. He's gelled with the team right away and his play has shown it so far.”
Afterwards, the Lions headed to Middletown, Pa., to compete in the Penn-State Harrisburg tip-off tournament.
In the first match, the Lions trampled the SUNY Geneseo Knights, 79-68, as Stanford recorded a double-double of 24 points and 12 rebounds.
The Lions stayed ahead of the Knights during the first half. Stanford and Murdock Jr. opened a 7-0 start before Knights senior guard Jack Eisenberg scored a two-point jumper.
Nevertheless, the Lions offense kept accumulating points off a couple of jumpers and layups by Brackett and Stanford. The Knights sole threat was senior guard John Decker who provided 27 points for the Knights.
The Lions ultimately finished the first half with a comfortable 36-27 lead. Both the Lions and Knights remained equal in the second until the Lions slowly pulled ahead.
Decker helped the Knights catch up to the Lions on a pair of free throws and three pointers. With the Lions lead cut to 41-37, Brackett utilized his strong body frame to lounge for two jumpers. In the midst, junior forward Elias Bermudez and Stanford were clutch on the free-throw line both making their free throws.
In the end, the Knights could not hinder the Lions as they won, 79-68 to advance to the tournament finals.
In the finals against Penn State-Harrisburg, the Lions offense froze as the Nittany Lions defeated them, 74-68. Brackett’s 22 point performance was not enough to counter the Nittany Lions stiff defense.
“For some reason we came out slow and played poorly on both sides of the floor,” Brackett said. “We didn’t run our offense well, and we couldn’t stop them from scoring in the first half. It was good to see that we responded in a positive way and made a run in the second half to cut the deficit to one.”
Coming home from the loss, the Lions obliterated their first conference opponent, Rutgers University-Camden, 106-66, on Tuesday, Nov. 22.
The Lions initially overwhelmed the Raptors with a 15-5 lead. It was an overall team effort as Brackett, Stanford and Murdock Jr. and sophomore forward Jordan Glover reached to the double-digit column. Additionally, freshman forward Ryan Jensen and freshman guard Tommy Egan were able to contribute off the bench, scoring six points.
The Lions travel to Galloway, N.J., on Wednesday, Nov. 30, for another conference matchup against the Stockton University Ospreys. On Saturday, Dec. 3, the Lions return to Packer Hall to compete against the Kean University Cougars at 3 p.m.
(11/15/16 8:21pm)
Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
Second-year head coach Matt Goldsmith and the Lions were prepared to send a message to their New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) foes.
They are not underdogs anymore.
They are not the Cinderella team who defeated the No.1 seeded New Jersey City University during last season’s NJAC tournament.
Ranked third in this season’s NJAC preseason poll, the Lions are loaded with talent, speed and power from both sides of the court.
Sophomore forward Jordan Glover will build upon his rebound production and drain numerous three pointers as he did during the Lions tournament victories against Ramapo College and New Jersey City University.
Glover’s forward-in-crime will be junior forward Elias Bermudez. Bermudez will continue his role of the Lions workhorse. He started at his forward position in every game last season and accumulated 50 total offensive boards.
Senior forward Bobby Brackett will return after being absent from injury last year. Brackett is currently sixth in all-time career rebounding with 627 rebounds. He looks to follow up his phenomenal freshman season where he collected 327 rebounds, the most rebounds in Lions history.
In the back end of the court, senior guard Eric Klacik will uphold the Lions defense and maintain double figure offensive averages. Klacik is also a great long distance shooter with 55 three-point field goals under his belt.
Junior guard Eric Murdock Jr. comes into this season with high expectations. Murdock Jr. was recently announced as a preseason All-American by D3News. He adds much offensive production for the Lions by averaging 19.1 points per game and snatching 53 steals last season. Both Klacik and Murdock Jr. are a mighty defensive unit.
Senior forward Corey Stanford is another great addition to the team. Stanford previously played for the Catholic University of America. He adds much need playoff experience for the Lions as he competed in the NCAA national tournament twice with the Cardinals. Additionaly, freshman guard Ryan Jensen is striving for an productive playmaker.
Altogether, Goldsmith and the Lions have the opportunity to win the College’s first men’s basketball NJAC title since 1998. Nonetheless, the team has a long journey. The journey lasts regular season games 25 games. Eighteen out of those 25 games will be against conference opponents.
The Lions begin their season at Packer Hall against the John Jay College Bloodhounds on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 7 p.m. Afterwards, the Lions head off to Middletown, Pa., for a tournament at Penn State Harrisburg. The majority the of Lion’s conference matches will occur by late December to early February.
(11/08/16 5:19am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
Clashing against each other at Glassboro, N.J., on Monday, Oct. 31, the Lions entered the second round of the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Tournament after narrowly defeating the Stockton University Ospreys, 2-1, in the first round. Meanwhile, the Profs were waiting for their eventual opponent after posting a formidable 15-1-1 and gaining the second seed.
Despite the caliber difference, it took 84 minutes for the Profs to knock out the Lions, 1-0.
“We have a lot of respect for Rowan considering they are nationally ranked and haven’t dropped many points in the conference,” senior midfielder Nick Costelloe said before the game. “To beat Rowan, we will need to defend well, but the key will be to finish our chances early and avoid chasing the game.”
In the first half, both teams appeared equal. Costelloe landed the first shot that was saved by Profs sophomore goalkeeper Kyle Dennis. Eighteen minutes later, senior forward Thomas Hogue nearly scored before Dennis caught the shot.
The Lions closest opportunity came in the 27th minute when freshman midfielder Michael Maltese headed in a shot off a corner kick. For the third time, Dennis secured a save.
After halftime, the Profs came out on an offensive splurge as they recorded 10 shots. Sophomore goalkeeper Dan Walsh and the Lions defense held off the attacks to the end of regulation time.
In the 52nd minute, Walsh saved a shot from Prof’s sophomore forward Shane Doherty, who kept pressuring the Lions defense until he scored with six minutes remaining. Doherty landed a header shot and rebounded the game-winning goal against the Lions.
The Lions last chance came in the final minute. Senior forward Sean Etheridge’s shot swung to the left of the goal.
Ultimately, the Lions fell to the Profs, 1-0. The Profs went on to be upset by the fifth-seeded Montclair State University Red Hawks, 3-0. Finishing with a 9-9-2 record, the Lions have improved and competed in the NJAC Tournament for the first time since 2013.
Hogue was the College’s top scorer this season with nine goals, and sophomore midfielder Nick Sample contributed five assists. Meanwhile, freshman forward Mateo Panizza had a great debut season with six goals and two assists. On the defensive end, Walsh recorded 66 saves.
On Wednesday, Nov. 2, the College Sports Information Directors of America named senior midfielder Matt Taylor and Costelloe as members of the NCAA III Academic All-District 2 First team. Additionally, senior midfielder Domenic Polidoro and Costelloe were selected on the NJAC First team. Hogue was also placed on the NJAC second team while Walsh received an honorable mention.
(11/01/16 3:07am)
By Miguel Gonzalez
Sports Editor
Captain of the men’s soccer team, senior midfielder Domenic Polidoro, knows how to prevail when the clock moves past the initial 90 minutes.
“As athletes, we know that the game is not over until the final whistle is blown,” Polidoro said. “Until the game is over, everyone needs to find energy and push forward in an attempt to win the game.”
After playing four overtime matches this season and qualifying as the sixth seed for the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) tournament, the Lions defeated the Stockton University Ospreys in a 2-1 overtime victory.
The road to the NJAC tournament was not simple for the Lions. With two conference victories by Saturday, Sept. 24, the Lions endured setback losses against Rutgers-Newark, Rutgers-Camden and Stockton universities.
Once October arrived, the Lions remained in playoff contention after grinding out a win against Ramapo College and a tie against Montclair State University.
A crucial away victory against the Kean University Cougars led the Lions to an important last regular season match with the nationally 10th-ranked Rowan University Profs at Lions Stadium on Wednesday, Oct. 26.
“We have a lot at stake here, and the possibility of it being the last game played at home, under the lights, makes it even more important that we get a win,” Polidoro said. “It is going to be an NJAC dogfight for sure.”
The Profs burst through the Lions in the first half. The defensive trio of senior defender Clayton Flon, sophomore defender Nick Provenzano and Polidoro were on their heels as they recorded four blocks. Despite the relentless effort, the Profs scored two goals.
In the 20th minute, Profs junior midfielder Tyler Logar fed a pass to sophomore forward Shane Doherty, who then slipped past Lions sophomore goalkeeper Dan Walsh to give the Profs a 1-0 lead.
Three minutes later, senior midfielder Nick Costelloe almost tied the match with a shot saved by Profs goalkeeper Kyle Dennis.
Toward the 37th minute, Doherty struck again with another goal when he rebounded a shot off Walsh and tapped in the goal at the right corner.
During halftime, head coach George Nazario and his coaching staff took the time to celebrate the senior players’ last home game.
“(The seniors) grew to be a great core,” Nazario said. “Their leadership is paramount on and off the field. I hope we end their last season with a good run in the NJAC tournament.”
In the second half, the Lions managed to net a goal. At the 60th minute, freshman defender Matt Decker lasered a shot toward the center of the goal. In the midst, senior forward Thomas Hogue got the rebound and scored.
The Lions were not able to counter afterwards as the Profs scored another goal and shunned their offense. Even though the Lions lost 3-1, they qualified for the sixth seed in the NJAC tournament.
“During my time here at TCNJ, and playing within the NJAC, I learned how important each individual game truly is,” Polidoro said. “Dropping points here or there to teams that didn’t deserve to beat (or tie) us really can affect the playoff run later in the season.”
On Saturday, Oct. 29, the Lions headed to Galloway, N.J., to compete their first NJAC tournament match since 2013. Previously, the Ospreys defeated the Lions in a 2-0 victory at Lions Stadium. The two teams were paired up as the Ospreys were given the home field advantage as the fifth seed. Nonetheless, the Lions walked out with a win and a trip to the NJAC semifinals.
The Lions struck early when sophomore midfielder Nick Sample scored off a rebound with an assist from Hogue in the 12th minute. The Ospreys instantly fought back with a barrage of five shots. Walsh fortified the net as he recorded five saves in the first half.
In the second half, the Lions kept shooting and pressuring Ospreys freshman goalkeeper Michael Lescano with no goal in the end. At the 77th minute, Ospreys freshman defensive back Drew Ruble sent a pass toward senior defensive back Jeff Tanaski, who tapped in the equalizer for Stockton.
With the match tied at 1, the Lions rushed for another goal. Sophomore defender Nick Provenzano nearly scored off a header shot in the 85th minute.
In overtime, junior midfielder Peter Dresch led the Lions to a 2-1 victory by scoring off an assist from senior midfielder Nick Costelloe.
The College’s postseason win set the team for a rematch against Rowan University at Glassboro, N.J., on Monday, Oct. 31.
“Like any game, we always plan to win,” Polidoro said. “We know we have the capacity to beat any team we have faced thus far, so we need to continue this mentality into the game against Rowan.”