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Western New England College - Athletic News
WESTERN NEW ENGLND COLLEGE READY TO CHALLENGE FOR SECOND STRAIGHT NEWLA TITLE
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College goes after its second straight New England Women's Lacrosse Association (NEWLA) Tournament title this spring with eight starters among 14 returning letter winners leading the way.
Last spring the Golden Bears posted a 14-4 record for its fifth consecutive winning season, which included a 6-0 mark in the NEWLA.
Coach Aimee Klepacki's team captured its second NEWLA title in three years with a win over Bridgewater State College before losing an opening round game in the NCAA Division III Championship to the University of Scranton.
Western New England College enters the new season without its top three scorers from a year ago, including NEWLA Offensive Player-of-the-Year Shannon Pizzingrilli who graduated after compiling a school record 275 points (164 goals, 111 assists).
All-NEWLA players Jamie Carney (116 career points) who scored 61 points last season and Whitney Boucher (77 career points) who had 40 points a year ago, also graduated.
The top returning attack player is junior Alyson Nowell (Feeding Hills, MA) (87 career points) who totaled 39 points (21 goals, 18 assists). Also back are senior Kristin Pimental (Tiverton, RI) who scored 37 points, and sophomores Jessica Vogel (Tonawanda, NY), 32 points, and Audrey Kelton (Wilder, VT), 30 points. Vogel was named the NEWLA Rookie-of-the-Year.
Senior Sarah Cunningham (LaGrangeville, NY), the NEWLA Defensive Player-of-the-Year, junior Alia Andrews (Westfield, MA), junior goalie Tara Cushman (Scituate, MA), 7.58 goals-against-average, and sophomore Lindsey Burns (Fairport, NY) lead the defensive unit.
Andrews, Burns, Cunningham, Cushman, Kelton, and Vogel made the All-NEWLA Team last year.
Among the top freshmen are Julianna Mulroy (Wellesley, MA) at attack, Kayte Devine (New Fairfield, CT) at midfield, and Melissa Roy (West Haven, CT) at goalie.
"We're definitely going to miss Shannon, but we have some pretty good returning players," says Klepacki who has a 60-26 record in five seasons. "Without our top three scorers back, we have a big void to fill, however we have players ready to step up and meet the challenge."
Western New England College opens its seventh varsity season at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 16, against Sweet Briar (Va.) in St. Petersburg, Florida. The Golden Bears open their home season at 4:00 p.m. Thursday, March 24, against Bridgewater State.
FORMER WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE STANDOUT BRENNA PLUTINO NAMED ASSISTANT WOMEN'S LACROSSE COACH
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Former Golden Bears standout Brenna Plutino has been named assistant women's lacrosse coach at Western New England College.
Plutino, a native of Pitman, New Jersey, graduated from Western New England College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology in 2003.
A three-year starter on the women's lacrosse team, she is fourth on the school's all-time scoring list with 118 points (80 goals, 38 assists) in 50 games.
Plutino was selected the team's Most Improved Player her sophomore year and named to the All-New England Women's Lacrosse Association (NEWLA) First Team her senior season.
During the 2003-04 school year Plutino served as an assistant field hockey and lacrosse coach at Elms College.
She was the acting head women's lacrosse at Western New England College last fall when Aimee Klepacki was out on maternity leave.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE BASEBALL TEAM AIMS FOR RETURN TRIP TO NCAA DIVISION III TOURNAMENT IN 2005
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College's baseball team hopes to defend its Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) title this spring with seven starters and two of its top pitchers returning from last year's 33-14 team, which set a school record for wins while placing third at the NCAA Division III New England Regional Championship.
The Golden Bears split four games at the national tournament marking the first time a Western New England College men's team has won a contest in a NCAA Championship. With a 62.0 winning percentage over the last five years, WNEC ranks among the top programs in the New England region.
"We have finally become a veteran team," says sixth-year coach Matt LaBranche. "With the entire starting lineup returning, our goals are to repeat as GNAC champions and give ourselves a chance to compete for the regional championship."
Senior co-captains, centerfielder Jeff Maurutis (Milford, CT) and catcher Matt Hackney (Bristol, CT) head the list of returnees. Maurutis, a two-time All-GNAC performer, hit .330 last year with a school record 24 stolen bases. He holds the school record for career hits (153). Hackney, an All-New England Intercollegiate Baseball Association (NEIBA) and three-time All-GNAC selection, hit .324 and passed the career hit mark as well and is now second (152) behind Maurutis.
The Golden Bears have another top player in senior leftfielder Chris Mahoney (Yorkville, NY) who led the squad with a .412 batting average in his first season with the team. Mahoney, who has a 33-game hitting streak, also made the All-GNAC and NEIBA First Teams.
Senior shortstop Justin McGee (Wilbraham, MA) is a four-year starter who hit .314 a year ago while compiling a respectable .955 fielding percentage.
Western New England College has a pair of talented sophomores in first baseman Tom Horgan (Westfield, MA) who was second on the team with a .371 batting average in 39 contests (36 starts) in gaining All-GNAC recognition and third baseman Josh Jacobs (Essex Junction, VT) who hit a solid .312 in 39 games (34 starts).
Junior Jason Connelly (Scituate, MA) is among the top pitchers in the region; he compiled a 9-3 record and 2.76 ERA last season in gaining numerous awards, including GNAC Pitcher-of-the-Year and GNAC Tournament MVP. Connelly, who plays second base when not pitching, also hit .277 last season. Senior Ryan Macdonald (Milford, CT) posted a 7-3 record and team best 1.97 ERA along with three shutouts.
"The nucleus of this team has laid the foundation for a program that now expects to compete at the highest level in our region and beyond," notes LaBranche. "This is a well-balanced team that will be tough to beat come tournament time."
Western New England College opens its 37th season at 12:45 p.m. Saturday (March 12) against SUNY Cortland in Port Charlotte, Florida. The Golden Bears will play eight games in the Sunshine State during spring break before returning north for a contest at Springfield College on March 23.
SEVEN WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE PLAYERS NAMED TO 2004 NFHCA DIVISION III ACADEMIC TEAM
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — The National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) named seven Western New England College players to its 2004 Academic Team on Friday (Mar. 4).
They were senior Adrienne Guay (Enfield, NH), English; junior Kaitlin Boyd (Coram, NY), Government; sophomores Melissa Ezold (York, ME), Psychology, and Allison Jameson (Brattleboro, VT), Business, and freshmen Amy Cunningham (LaGrangeville, NY), Math, Cori Eggert (Denville, NJ), Math, and Emily Popham (Orange, MA), Business.
Boyd made the honor team for the third consecutive year while Guay (a team tri-captain), Ezold, and Jameson were repeat selections.
To earn a spot on the NFHCA Academic Team, a player must be a starter or important reserve, and have a minimum 3.3 cumulative grade-point-average in her major. In addition, the NFHCA recognized Western New England College for having a 3.0 or better team grade-point-average.
Western New England College, under second-year coach Sarah Kelly posted a 14-9 record that was a school record for wins. The Golden Bears finished first in the North Atlantic Conference during the regular season with an 8-1 mark and placed second in the conference tournament.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE MEN'S LACROSSE TEAM AIMS FOR PILGRIM LEAGUE TOURNAMENT TITLE
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Weather permitting, Western New England College will open its 24th men's lacrosse season at 4:00 p.m. Thursday (March 3) against Roger Williams University at Golden Bear Stadium. The Golden Bears, under the direction of fourth-year coach John Klepacki, hope to challenge for the Pilgrim League Tournament title this spring with seven starters among its 18 returning lettermen.
Western New England College posted a 14-7 record a year ago that was a school record for wins, breaking the old mark of 12 set in 2002. The Golden Bears captured the Pilgrim League West Division title with a 5-1 mark and placed second in the Pilgrim League Tournament. WNEC capped its season by winning the ECAC Division III New England Tournament for the program's first ever post-season championship.
"This team has some much-needed explosive depth in the offensive end," says Klepacki who has a 34-21 record (61.8%) in three seasons. "Our defense came together as a unit during our fall scrimmages. The coaching staff is extremely excited about the potential of this group."
Heading the list of returnees is senior attack player CJ Annunciata (Waltham, MA) who led the team with 87 points (37 goals, 50 assists) in his first season. Annunciata, a transfer from Roger Williams was selected to the 2005 Face-Off Yearbook and Inside Lacrosse Pre-Season Division III All-America Team.
The Golden Bears have another rising star in sophomore attack player Adam Cherry (Westfield, MA) who was named the Pilgrim League Rookie-of-the-Year after compiling 65 points (43 goals, 22 assists) that was second on the team.
Among the other players to watch are senior midfielder Patrick Matthews (Middle Island, NY) who totaled 52 points (31 goals, 21 assists) a year ago and junior defenseman Kevin Batson (Kennebunk, ME).
Annunciata, Cherry, Matthews, and Batson made the 2004 Pilgrim League All-Star Second Team.
The Golden Bears also feature sophomore twins Jason Whitehouse (Gilmanton, NH) at midfield and Justin Whitehouse (Gilmanton, NH) at defense.
Freshmen Chris Body (Newtown, CT) and James Ells (Cheshire, CT) are the top candidates for the starting goalie position.
Newcomers to watch include freshman attack player Bryan Cofrin (Londonderry, NH), and freshmen midfielders Kelley Luchs (Glastonbury, CT), Brian Praetorius (Saugerties, NY), Brody Savoie (Wilbraham, MA), and Gary Schuldt (Yorktown Heights, NY).
After a home contest against Union (N.Y.) on Saturday, March 5, the Golden Bears travel to Sanford, Florida for games against Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute on Sunday March 13 and McDaniel (Md.) on Wednesday, March 16.
BRIAN CALANDRUCCIO NAMED ASSISTANT MEN'S LACROSSE COACH AT WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Former Springfield College captain Brian Calandruccio has been named assistant men's lacrosse coach at Western New England College. Calandruccio, a native of Baldwin Place, New York, was a four-year defenseman for the Pride. He served as a team captain last spring when Springfield posted a 13-4 record while winning the Pilgrim League Tournament and participating in the NCAA Division III Championship. Calandruccio received a Bachelor of Science degree in American Studies last May.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE BASKETBALL PLAYERS JON GODBOUT AND JIM BAYNE NAMED TO ALL-GNAC FIRST TEAM
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — The Bristol, Connecticut connection of junior guard Jon Godbout and sophomore forward Jim Bayne were the best players on the Western New England College men's basketball team this past season.
On Monday (Feb. 28), both players were named to the All-Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Men's Basketball First Team.
Godbout, a repeat First Team selection, leads the Golden Bears in scoring (16.7 avg.), free-throw percentage (80.2), and steals (53), and is second in field-goal percentage (44.5), three-pointers (37), and assists (67). He is a team co-captain and accounting major.
Bayne was second in scoring (15.6) and free-throw percentage (79.8), and first in rebounding (10.5) and field-goal percentage (45.5). He set a school record earlier this season by making 30 consecutive free throws. Bayne is a business major.
Western New England College (17-9) will visit Plymouth State University (19-9) in a quarterfinal round game of the ECAC Division III New England Tournament at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday (March 2) in Plymouth, New Hampshire. The Golden Bears are seeded seventh in the tournament, the Panthers second.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE MEN'S AND WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAMS INVITED TO ECAC DIVISION III NEW ENGLAND TOURNAMENTS
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College men and women's basketball teams both received invitations to Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Division III New England Championships on Monday (Feb. 28).
The Golden Bears' men's team received the seventh seed and will visit second-seeded Plymouth State University in a quarterfinal round game starting at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday (March 2) in Plymouth, New Hampshire.
Coach Mike Theulen's squad enters its first ECAC Tournament with a 17-9 record after tying for second place in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) with a 13-5 mark. The Golden Bears lost in the opening round of the GNAC Tournament to Johnson & Wales University.
Plymouth State (19-9) lost to Western Connecticut in the Little East Conference Tournament championship game 135-130 in double overtime. The Panthers defeated the Golden Bears in the only other meeting between the schools 73-64 during the 1984-85 season.
Junior guard Jon Godbout (Bristol, CT) and sophomore forward Jim Bayne (Bristol, CT) lead the Golden Bears in scoring with averages of 16.7 and 15.6, respectively. Bayne also is first in rebounding (10.5).
Western New England College's women's team earned the eighth seed and will meet top-seeded Brandeis University in a quarterfinal round game at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday (March 2) in Waltham, Massachusetts.
The Golden Bears (19-7) are seeded eighth in the tournament while the Judges (20-4) are seeded first. The two teams met earlier this season with Brandeis defeating Western New England College 66-50 on December 11 in Waltham.
This is Western New England College 's second appearance in the ECAC Tournament in the last four years.
Coach Wendy Davis has one of the top players in the region in junior center Lisa Masella (Newtown, CT) who leads the team in scoring (9.8 avg.), rebounding (9.7) and field-goal percentage (52.2).
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE JUNIOR CENTER LISA MASELLA SELECTED TO ALL-GNAC WOMEN'S BASKETBALL FIRST TEAM
Wendy Davis named GNAC Women's Basketball '"Coach-of-the-Year"
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College junior center Lisa Masella (Newtown, CT) was named Monay (Feb. 28) to the 2005 All-Great Northeast Athletic Conference Women's Basketball First Team.
Masella, a second team All-GNAC selection the last two years, leads the Golden Bears in scoring (9.8 avg.) and rebounding (9.7). She has eight double doubles this season. A team tri-captain, Masella is a communications major.
Wendy Davis of Western New England College was voted the GNAC Coach-of-the-Year after guiding the Golden Bears to a 19-7 record and second place showing in the conference with a 10-2 mark. The former UConn standout also gained her 100th career victory at Daniel Webster.
Western New England College will meet Brandeis University (20-4) in a quarterfinal round game of the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Division III New England Tournament at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday in Waltham, Massachusetts. The Golden Bears are seeded eighth in the tournament while the Judges are seeded first.
FRESHMEN MIKE BISHOP AND JENNIFER DABROWSKI SELECTED WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE ATHLETES-OF-THE-WEEK
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Wrestling standout Mike Bishop (Belchertown, MA) and basketball standout Jennifer Dabrowski (Plainville, CT) were honored Tuesday (Feb. 22) as the Western New England College Male and Female Athletes-of-the-Week.
Bishop, a freshman, placed fifth in the 197-lb. weight class at the New England College Conference Wrestling Association (NECCWA) Championship to become the school's first place-winner at the meet in three years. An engineering major, Bishop also is a member of the Golden Bears' football team.
Dabrowski, a freshman guard, averaged 12.7 points in three victories coming off the bench while shooting 66.7% from the field (18-for-27). She scored a career high 22 points in a win over Emerson College. Dabrowski is a business major.
HANK BAZAN, "THE FATHER OF WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE FOOTBALL," PASSES AWAY AT THE AGE OF 69
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Hank Bazan, "The Father of Football" at Western New England College and a former professor of management and business at the College, passed away Monday night (Feb. 21) at the age of 69.
Bazan, a native of Chicopee, Massachusetts, started the football program and served as head coach of the club team from 1970-79. His squads compiled a 38-34-3 record (52.7%), which included six winning seasons. Bazan was selected the National Club Sports Association (NCSA) "Coach-of-the-Year" in 1974 after his Golden Bears posted a 7-1 record.
Bazan also was instrumental in fundraising and construction of the football stands and press box that stood in them middle of campus until 2002. He was a member of the second class of the Western New England College Downes Athletic Hall of Fame in 2000.
Calling hours will be from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday (Feb. 25) at the Cierpial Funeral Home in Chicopee Falls. The funeral will take place starting at 9:00 a.m. Saturday (Feb. 26) at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus with burial in St. Stanislaus Cemetery.
Remembering Hank Bazan
Mike Theulen, former colleague and long-time Western New England College coach. "Hank was one of the first people I met when I became the director of athletics (in 1999). He was personable, friendly, and well connected with the athletics program, more specifically, the football program. The Western New England College athletic family is deeply saddened by the passing of the "Father of Football."
Bill Downes, former colleague and coach emeritus at Western New England College coach. "When Hank started football, it was a club program, but he had some outstanding teams. His industriousness and enthusiasm were cornerstones to building to WNEC football program."
Gerry Martin, Western New England College football coach (1991-2004). "Hank was a great guy and without him, there would be no Western New England College football. He got the program going and everything we have today is because of him. Hank knew how to do things the right way and he was well respected. Hank many times spoke to our team at halftime and at the end of a game, and he was always very inspirational. He loved the football program at the College."
Ken Cerino, Western New England College director of athletic communications. "I only knew Hank for five years, but felt like I knew him a lot longer. We both shared a love for record keeping. Hank gave the athletics department valuable scrapbooks that contained pictures, newspaper articles, and other information for our archives. Hank also made beautiful trophies featuring the Golden Bear. He enjoyed talking about his former players, and it was always nice to see him at home game and hear his encouraging words about the team."
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE SENIOR WOMEN'S SWIMMING CO-CAPTAIN KELLI ARSENAULT WINS KAY FROMER AWARD
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College women's swimming co-captain Kelli Arsenault (Branford, CT) ended her career in sensational fashion by becoming the first individual in school history to receive the Kay Fromer Award as the senior swimmer scoring the most career points at the New England Intercollegiate Swimming and Diving Association (NEISDA) Championship.
Arsenault, a social work major, totaled 86 points (60 individual, 26 relays) of the team's 142 points as the Golden Bears finished 14th in the 22-team field in the championship hosted by Bentley College February 18-20. She scored 242 individual points in four years competing in the NEISDA championship.
Arsenault placed fourth in three events this past weekend Ñ 50-yard backstroke (30.01 prelims, 30.04), 100 backstroke (school record 1:03.21 prelims, 1:03.22), and 200 backstroke (school record 2:15.75, 2:16.34). She also swam the first leg on the 200-yard (15th) and 400 medley (16th) relays teams, and the anchor leg on the 200 medley (15th) and 200 freestyle (18th) relays squads that scored points.
"Kelli was a standout swimmer from day one," said WNEC coach Andrea Daley. "She has always been an asset to the team, not only as an athlete, but also as a leader. She is positive and supportive of her teammates and she works hard for her success. Kelli has played a key role in putting our swimming program on the map. She is an amazing person."
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE BASKETBALL TEAMS HOME FOR QUARTERFINAL ROUND GAMES OF THE GNAC TOURNAMENT
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Both the Western New England College men's and women's basketball teams will play quarterfinal round games of their respective Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournaments in the Alumni Healthful Living Center.
In the GNAC Men's Tournament, Western New England College (17-8) will meet Johnson & Wales University (14-10) at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday (Feb. 22). The Golden Bears finished in a three-way tie for second place in the conference with a 13-5 mark, but received the fourth seed after head-to-head comparisons. The Wildcats earned the fifth seed after posting a 12-6 mark in the GNAC.
WNEC split a pair of games with JWU this season, losing 67-60 on January 15 in Providence before taking a 63-60 decision last Thursday (Feb. 17) at the AHLC.
The men's tournament continues Thursday (Feb. 24) with semifinal games at campus sites with the championship game slated for Saturday (Feb. 26) at the highest remaining seed.
In the GNAC Women's Tournament, Western New England College (18-6) will entertain St. Joseph, Connecticut (12-12) at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday (Feb. 23). The Golden Bears are seeded second in the tournament after compiling a 10-2 mark in the conference. The Blue Jays are seeded seventh after finishing with a 6-6 record.
Western New England College defeated St. Joseph, Connecticut, 62-46, on February 12 in Springfield.
The highest remaining seed will host both the semifinal and championship round games of the tournament on Friday (Feb. 25) and Saturday (Feb. 26).
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE JUNIOR GUARD JON GODBOUT NAMED TO ESPN THE MAGAZINE DISTRICT 1 ACADEMIC TEAM
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College junior guard Jon Godbout (Bristol, CT) was named Thursday (Feb. 17) to the 2005 ESPN The Magazine College Division Men's Basketball District 1 Academic First Team selected by the region's college sports information directors.
Godbout, a team co-captain, has a 3.73 cumulative grade-point-average in accounting. He also leads the Golden Bears (16-7) in scoring (16.3 avg.), free-throw percentage (77.2), and steals (46), and is second in field-goal percentage (46.3), assists (59) and three-pointers (36).
By making the District 1 First Team, Godbout automatically becomes a candidate for the national academic squad that will be announced on March 2.
BASKETBALL PLAYERS JIM BAYNE AND SHARON SIMONCELLI SELECTED WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE ATHLETES-OF-THE-WEEK
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Sophomore basketball standouts Jim Bayne (Bristol, CT) and Sharon Simoncelli (Litchfield, CT) were honored Tuesday (Feb. 15) as the Western New England College Male and Female Athletes-of-the-Week.
Bayne, a forward, averaged 25.5 points and 9.5 rebounds in a 2-0 week while shooting 61.1% from the field (22-for-36) and 100% from the foul line (7-for-70. He had his 13th double double of the season with 23 points and 12 rebounds (along with three blocks) in a 77-66 win at Southern Vermont on February 8.
A business major, Bayne tied his career high with 28 points, including all 22 of the team's points in the second half, in a 64-58 overtime upset win over Great Northeast Athletic Conference leader Norwich on February 12. For his performance, Bayne was named the GNAC Men's Basketball Player-of-the-Week.
Simoncelli, a reserve forward, returned to the lineup after missing three games with an injury to score 18 points in a 78-40 victory at Daniel Webster on February 8. She also compiled 11 points and five rebounds in a 62-46 win over St. Joseph (Conn.) on February 12. Simoncelli is a sport management major.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE BASKETBALL STAR JESSICA HARRICA COPES WITH INJURY
By
RYAN EMERSON '05
Senior
Student Assistant Athletic Communications
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College women's basketball junior guard tri-captain Jess Harrica (Morrisonville, NY) has had a tough time watching from the sidelines after suffering a season ending injury in a pre-season practice.
Last November 15, Harrica tore her Achilles tendon doing what comes naturally to her, making a hustle play. She endured surgery just a week later and is still rehabilitating trying to regain her strength and mobility.
"This has been the hardest thing I have ever had to go through in my life, but luckily I have had a great support system from my teammates, coaches, friends, and family," says Harrica.
Harrica started all 26 games last year and led the team in assists (116) and steals (51). She was also named WNEC Defensive Player-ofÐtheÐYear for her tenacious, in your face, style of play. Harrica had displayed her leadership on and off the court last year and was rewarded this year by becoming a tri-captain. However, her leadership is even more important because she is on the sideline.
Despite her injury Harrica remains positive offering advice and support at games and practices.
Senior forward tri-captain Shelley Everson says, "Jess is always right there at practice with us. She gives the guards and everyone pointers about what she sees from the sidelines. She really knows the game and has been like another coach to us."
Harrica says, that her biggest disappointment is that "I cannot lead the team on the floor and be out there to help my teammates, especially on defense. The girls stay motivated by themselves, but I try to help them with things I see from the sidelines that they may not necessarily see. These girls work their butts off everyday, and I try to keep them positive when they get down on themselves."
The Golden Bears have had a successful year thus far, compiling a 14-5 record and 7-1 mark in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) entering a game February 10 at Simmons College in Boston.
Although Harrica would love to be on the court with her teammates, she says, "It's really hard to watch from the sidelines because this is something I love and I have always worked hard for; however, it is a lot more fun to watch us win then it is to watch us lose.Ó
Everson added, "Jess is one of the most conditioned and athletic people I have ever met. Her rehab is and will continue to go smoothly. She'll be back on the court in no time and I can't wait to come back and watch. This team is going to be great next year."
SENIOR KEVIN LEONARD AND FRESHMAN TIFFANY DeROSA NAMED WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE ATHLETES-OF-THE-WEEK
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Senior hockey tri-captain Kevin Leonard (Tewksbury, MA) and freshman basketball player Tiffany DeRosa (Hamden, CT) were honored Tuesday (Feb. 8) as the Western New England College Male and Female Athletes-of-the-Week.
Leonard, a forward, scored the game winner on a power play goal at 9:24 of the third period in a 2-1 victory over visiting Suffolk University. He also had an assist on the Golden Bears' first goal that tied the contest at 8:31 of the second period. Leonard leads the squad with 24 points (14 goals, 10 assists). Leonard is a business major.
DeRosa, a guard, scored a career high 15 points and had five rebounds and three steals in 16 minutes coming off the bench in a 74-45 victory at Southern Vermont College. She is a psychology major.
JUNIOR LISA MASELLA AND SOPHOMORE BRANDON HAYES NAMED WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE ATHLETES-OF-THE-WEEK
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Basketball tri-captain Lisa Masella (Newtown, CT) and wrestling standout Brandon Hayes (Watertown, NY) were honored Tuesday (Feb. 1) as the Western New England College Female and Male Athletes-of-the-Week.
Masella, a junior center, averaged 11.7 points and 9.3 rebounds in a 3-0 week as the Golden Bears (11-4) ran their winning streak to eight games. She also shot 50% (14-for-28) from the field. Masella had a double double with 12 points and 14 rebounds at Western Connecticut, 13 points and eight rebounds at Suffolk, and 10 points and six rebounds against Norwich. She is a communications major.
Hayes, a sophomore, won three of four matches competing in the 184-lb. weight class. He defeated opponents from Rhode Island College, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and Trinity. Hayes is a mechanical engineering major.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE ANNOUNCES SEARCH FOR NEW FOOTBALL COACH AFTER POSITION IS UPGRADED TO FULL-TIME STATUS
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College has upgraded the position of head football coach from part-time to full-time status and will conduct a search for a new coach shortly, athletics director Mike Theulen announced Thursday (Jan. 27). "We hope to have the new coach on board sometime this summer," said Theulen.
"We've been discussing hiring a full-time coach the last couple of years and recently received approval for this position."
Gerry Martin, who coached the Golden Bears for the past 14 seasons, will not be a candidate for the position because he has a full-time job working in downtown Springfield for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. "I've worked for the state for 23 years and can't afford to leave because of personal and financial considerations," he said.
Martin added, "Coaching at Western New England College was a very rewarding experience. I'm going to miss my association with the football program and players immensely, but hope to be involved with the athletics department in another capacity. It was fun watching the football program grow at the College the last 14 years and now it's time to watch my family grow. Hopefully, I've been a decent role model for my players and a credit to the program."
Martin, a native of Springfield, and his wife Lori have three children, Tommy (16), Andrew (14), and Gerald (4).
"Gerry did a tremendous job for us and was a wonderful ambassador for the College," stated Theulen. "He was a hardworking, loyal coach who provided an unparalleled student-athlete experience for his players."
Martin guided the Golden Bears to a 5-4 record this past fall for the program's first winning season in six years. His squad defeated Westfield State (26-21) to win the President's Trophy in the season opener and rallied from a 28-7 half-time deficit to beat Nichols (35-31) in the season finale.
SOPHOMORE ASHLEY KORBUT AND FRESHMAN STEVE HENNESSEY NAMED WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE ATHLETES-OF-THE-WEEK
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Swimming standout Ashley Korbut (South Hadley, MA) and ice hockey player Steve Hennessey (Essex Junction, VT) were honored Tuesday (Jan. 25) as the Western New England College Female and Male Athletes-of-the-Week.
Korbut, a sophomore, captured two events in a 132-97 victory over visiting Wheelock College on January 22. She placed first in the 50-yard freestyle (29.47) and 1000 freestyle (12:30.03) events. Korbut, an accounting major, also swam the third leg on the 200-medley relay squad that finished first in 2:09.44.
Hennessey, a freshman forward, scored two goals in 25 seconds at the 18:16 and 18:41 mark of the third period in a 6-4 come-from-behind win over Worcester State College on January 20. The goals were the third and fourth of the season for Hennessey who served as a back-up goalie on the Golden Bears' men's soccer team this past fall. Hennessey is a business major.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE TO HOST GIRLS AND WOMEN IN SPORTS DAY ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12
The 6th Annual Western New England College Girls and Women in Sports Day is scheduled for Saturday, February 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Alumni Healthful Living Center on the College's main campus. The free event is a community service program designed for girls between the ages of 7 and 12 from the greater Springfield area. Participants are to bring a personal hygiene product (hair products, deodorant, toothpaste, paper towels). Items will be donated to a local domestic violence shelter. For more information, visit www.wnec.edu/athletics/gwsday or call 413-782-1202.
According to Cyndi Costanzo, Western New England College Assistant Athletic Director, the purpose of the program is to encourage girls to continue to be physically active throughout their lives. Participants will have the opportunity to select two sport clinics: basketball, lacrosse, softball, soccer, tennis, and volleyball. Clinics will be instructed by Western New England College coaches and varsity athletes and include both instruction and time for play. In addition, recreation time will be made available for swimming, racquetball, and squash. A complimentary lunch will be served. The event is held in conjunction with National Girls and Women in Sports Month.
All
participants and their families are invited to remain at the Alumni Healthful
Living Center and attend at no charge the Western New England College
women's basketball game vs. St. Joseph College (Conn.) at 1:00 p.m. and
the men's basketball game vs. Norwich at 3:00 p.m.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE TEAMS RETURN TO ACTION SATURDAY
MEN'S BASKETBALL FOURTH NATIONALLY IN FG% DEFENSE
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — After a three-week break for the holidays, four Western New England College teams return to action Saturday (Jan. 8) with away events.
The Golden Bears' men's basketball team (5-3) visits Suffolk in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) contest while the women's basketball team (2-3) is at Framingham State in a non-conference game.
Western New England College's men's ice hockey squad (1-7-1) visits Franklin Pierce in an ECAC Northeast match-up. The Golden Bears' wrestling squad competes in the North-South Duals at Ursinus College (Pa.).
In the latest NCAA statistics, the men's basketball squad is fourth nationally in field-goal percentage defense (35.3) behind William Paterson (N.J.) (33.3), Lawrence (WI) (34.7), and Lebanon Valley (Pa.) (35.0).
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM HEADS INTO HOLIDAY BREAK WITH A 2-3 RECORD
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College's women's basketball team has a 2-3 record heading into the holiday break after dropping a 66-50 decision at No. 13 Brandeis in its last start on December 11. The young Golden Bears hope to challenge for the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) title later this winter with their three-guard offense that features two sophomores and a freshman point guard.
"We played five tough opponents the first semester and many young players had to step up and perform immediately because of the loss of Jess Harrica," said Western New England College coach Wendy Davis. "This playing experience will help us as we enter the second semester. We have quite a schedule playing three games a week for the rest of the season. I believe this team has yet to play its best basketball, which is a good thing. Hopefully, we will time it so we're playing well come conference time."
Western New England College opened its season with a six point overtime win at WPI (56-50) before dropping home contests to Fitchburg State (62-59) and Springfield (62-53). The Golden Bears then defeated visiting Westfield State (64-52) before the loss at Brandeis.
WNEC's top player is junior center Lisa Masella (Newtown, CT) who leads the team in scoring (10.8 avg.), rebounding (12.6 that is second in the GNAC), and field-throw percentage (.510 that is sixth in the conference). Masella has four double-doubles this season and 23 for her career.
Sophomore guard Laura Booth (Chicopee, MA) is second in scoring with an 8.4 average and second in the GNAC in free-throw percentage (.938). Freshman point guard Megan Ferguson (Plainville, CT) is averaging 6.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.0 assists, and is sixth in the GNAC in assist/turnover ratio (1.15). Sophomore guard and defensive specialist Jenna Cullen (East Haddam, CT) is averaging 6.0 points.
The only senior on the team is forward Shelley Everson (Plainville, CT) who is third in scoring (7.2) and second in rebounding (4.2). Sophomore center Kerri Sullivan (Cumberland, RI) and freshman guard Jen Dabrowski (Plainville, CT) are both averaging 4.4 points in reserve roles.
Western New England College returns to action with a non-conference game at Framingham State College on Saturday, January 8.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE MEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM SHOWS IMPROVEMENT WITH 5-3 RECORD AT SEMESTER BREAK
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — With a 5-3 record at the semester break, first-year Western New England College men's basketball coach Mike Theulen likes what he sees. The Golden Bears ended the 2004 portion of their schedule with a three-game winning streak and are 2-0 in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC).
"I'm pleased with the way we started the season," said Theulen, the school's athletics director. "However, we still have to be more efficient on the offensive end."
Western New England College is first in the conference in scoring defense (61.1) and field-goal percentage defense (.353), and second in scoring margin (+5.3), but only ninth (out of 10 teams) in scoring offense (66.4).
Sophomore forward Jim Bayne (Bristol, CT) is seventh in the GNAC in scoring (15.2) and second in rebounding (10.1). He also has a conference high 34 offensive rebounds and is sixth in blocked shots (9).
Junior guard Jon Godbout (Bristol, CT) is eighth in scoring (15.0), fourth in three-point field-goal percentage (.484), seventh in field-goal percentage (.500), eighth in free-throw percentage (.767), and ninth in three-pointers (15).
Senior forward Anthony Charbatji (Attleboro, MA) is ninth in both scoring (14.6) and three-point field-goal percentage (.393), and third in three-pointers (22). Senior guard Jeremy Sternstein (Ithaca, NY) is fifth in assists (3.88), 10th in steals (14), and third in assist/turnover ratio (1.82). Sophomore center Malik Champlain (Norwich, CT) is fifth in rebounding (7.50).
Western New England College returns to action with a GNAC contest starting at 2:00 p.m. Saturday (Jan .8) at Suffolk University.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE SENIOR CJ ANNUNCIATA NAMED PRE-SEASON All-AMERICA BY INSIDE LACROSSE MAGAZINE
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College senior CJ Annunciata (Waltham, MA) received an honorable mention on the 2005 Inside Lacrosse Magazine Division III Men's Lacrosse All-America Team that was released Thursday (Dec. 17).
Annunciata, an attack player, led the Golden Bears in scoring last year with a school record 87 points (37 goals, 50 assists) in his first season on the squad. He was named to the Pilgrim League All-Star and Pilgrim League Academic Teams. A sport management major, he is a transfer from Roger Williams University.
With Annunciata helping to lead the way, Western New England College posted a 14-7 record that was a school record for wins, captured the Pilgrim League West Division title with a 5-1 mark, and placed second in the Pilgrim League Tournament.
The Golden Bears capped their most successful campaign by winning the program's first Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Division III New England Championship.
Western New England College opens its season against Roger Williams at 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 2, at Golden Bear Stadium.
BASKETBALL CAPTAIN JON GODBOUT AND SWIMMING CAPTAIN JEN McCORMICK WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE ATHLETES-OF-THE-WEEK
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Basketball co-captain Jon Godbout (Bristol, CT) and swimming co-captain Jen McCormick (Cheshire, CT) were honored Tuesday (Dec. 14) as the Western New England College Male and Female Athletes-of-the-Week.
Godbout, a junior guard, averaged 18.3 points in a 3-0 week for the Golden Bears while shooting 51.3 percent from the field (20-39), 46.7 percent from three-point territory (7-15), and 80.0 percent from the foul line (8-10). He had a career high 27 points in a 77-66 win at Elms. Godbout is second on the team in scoring (15.0 avg.) and first in both field-goal percentage (50.0) and free-throw percentage (76.7). He is an accounting major.
McCormick, a senior, won the 400-yard individual medley with a school record time of 5:14.20 in a meet against Simmons, breaking her old mark of 5:15.42. She also placed first the 50 butterfly (30.70) and second in the 100 butterfly (1:05.72). McCormick is an elementary education major.
TIM LAROCCA AND SCOTT THORNTON OF WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE NAMED TO 2004 NSCAA ALL-NEW ENGLAND TEAM
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College sophomore defender Tim Larocca (East Longmeadow, MA) and senior midfielder Scott Thornton (Bedford, NH) have been named to the 2004 National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA)/Adidas Division III All-New England Team.
Larocca earned a spot on the third team while Thornton was a fourth squad selection. They are the first two players in school history to make the NSCAA All-New England squad.
Larocca, a marketing major, anchored the Golden Bears' defense that recorded a school record 14 shutouts this fall while limiting opponents to only 16 goals in 23 matches. He also contributed nine points (2 goals, 5 assists) in earning a spot on the All-Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) First Team.
Thornton, the only three-year captain in the program's 39-year history, tied for second in scoring this past season with 16 points (6 goals, 4 assists). An electrical engineering major, he ended his career with 51 points (18 goals, 15 assists). Thornton was a two-time All-GNAC First Team performer.
"I am thrilled that Tim and Scott have been recognized with this tremendous honor," said Western New England College coach Erin Sullivan. "Both individuals were integral parts of our team's success this year both on and off the field. This is a worthy mark of distinction as they are great two-way players and outstanding leaders."
Western New England College posted a 16-6-1 record that was a school record for wins, breaking the old mark of 15 set in 1975. The Golden Bears also captured the regular season Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) title with a perfect 9-0 mark (all by shutouts) and won their first GNAC Tournament title. WNEC ended its best season ever by making its inaugural appearance in the NCAA Division III Championship.
Sullivan's team was ranked seventh in both the final NSCAA/Adidas and NCAA Division III New England Regional rankings.
Western
New England College Fall Sports Banquet
Saturday,
Dec. 11, 2004
List
of Award Recipients
Men's
Cross Country
Most
Valuable Runner - Junior Andrew Lutz (Pittsford, NY)
Coaches
Award - Senior Dan Smith (Enfield, CT)
Rookie-of-the-Year
- Freshman Asif Abdul-Wadud (Springfield, MA)
Women's
Cross Country
Most
Valuable Runner - Freshman Kaylee Martin (Holmes, NY)
Coaches
Award - Sophomore Lauren Dannenberg (Poughkeepsie, NY)
Rookie-of-the-Year
- Freshman Andrea Bennett (Torrington, CT)
Field
Hockey
Offensive Player-of-the-Year - Sophomore Allison Jameson (Brattleboro,
VT)
Coaches Award - Junior Alyssa Katz (Cortlandt Manor, NY)
Rookie-of-the-Year - Freshman Amy Cunningham (LaGrangeville, NY)
Football
Offensive
Most Valuable Player - Senior Mike Laroche (Berlin, CT)
Defensive
Most Valuable Player - Senior Ryan Ascenzo (Bristol, CT)
Coaches
Award - Senior Greg Clarke (South Dartmouth, MA)
Jimmy
Geyer Award for Courage and Leadership - Senior Pat Belmonte (Beverly,
MA)
Men's
Soccer
Coaches
Award - Senior Tom Murray (Dalton, MA)
Unsung
Hero Award - Sophomore Rob Hensinger (Madison, CT)
Ed
Lindsey Freshman Award - Dan Lawrence (Easthampton, MA)
Women's
Soccer
Most
Valuable Player - Junior Renee Robichaud (Peabody, MA)
Offensive
Most Valuable Player - Sophomore Megan DeAngelo (East Longmeadow,
MA)
Defensive
Most Valuable Player - Senior Amy Camerota (Westfield, MA)
Women's
Tennis
Most Valuable Player - Senior Adrienne Nardelli (Wolcott, CT)
Coaches
Award - Senior Danielle Dunn (Hanover, CT)
Rookie-of-the-Year
- Freshman Meredith Hughes (Springfield, MA)
Women's
Volleyball
Most
Valuable Player - Freshman Ashley O'Keefe (South Dennis, MA)
Unsung
Hero Award - Senior Ashleigh Smarrella (Sandy Hook, CT)
Most
Improved Player - Sophomore Teddy Woeppel (Cooperstown, NY)
SWIMMER KELLI ARSENAULT AND WRESTLER JAMIE DURKIN NAMED WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE ATHLETES-OF-THE-WEEK
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Swimming co-captain Kelli Arsenault (Branford, CT) and wrestler Jamie Durkin (Lawrence, MA) were honored Tuesday (Dec. 7) as the Western New England College Female and Male Athletes-of-the-Week.
Durkin, a junior, made a successful Golden Bears' debut by winning his 165-lb. match against Bridgewater State College. He also won two of three matches at the Williams Duals Championship. Durkin defeated opponents from host Williams and New York Maritime, losing only against a rival from Division I Princeton. Durkin, a transfer from Clarion (Pa.), is a political science major.
Arsenault, a senior co-captain, captured three events as the Golden Bears placed second among six teams at the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Women's Swimming Championship. She won gold medals in the 50-yard backstroke (30.73, 30.28 prelims), 100 backstroke (GNAC record 1:05.09), and the 200 freestyle (2:14.09, 2:13.81 prelims). A social work major, Arsenault also swam the first leg on the 200 medley relay squad that finished second.
In other news, Western New England College junior center Lisa Masella (Newtown, CT) was named the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Women's Basketball Player-of-the-Week on Monday (Dec. 6). She averaged 11.7 points and 15.0 rebounds in three games. Masella was selected to the All-Pioneer Valley Hoop Classic Team after scoring 23 points while pulling down 33 rebounds in two contests. She had 13 points and a tournament record 19 rebounds in a 64-52 win over Westfield State. A communications major, Masella leads the Golden Bears (2-2) in scoring (11.8), rebounding (15.3), and field-goal percentage (50.0).
Western New England College sophomore forward Jim Bayne (Bristol, CT) was named to the All-Pioneer Valley Classic Hoop Classic Team after averaging 17 points and 8.5 rebounds in two games. He had a double double with 18 points and 10 rebounds in a loss against No. 8 Amherst. Bayne, a business major, is averaging a team high 15.4 points and 9.4 rebounds through five games for the Golden Bears (2-3).
Western New England College assistant men and women's tennis coach Tom Michaud (Manchester, CT) placed 99th among approximately 11,000 runners at the recent 68th Annual Manchester Road Race. He ran the 4.748-mile course in 28 minutes, 7 seconds. WNEC men and women's cross-country coach Brian Walsh (Southwick, MA) was 162nd with a time of 29:14. Patrick Nthiwa of Kenya was first in 22:16.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE PLACES SECOND AMONG SIX TEAMS AT GREAT NORTHEAST ATHLETIC CONFERENCE WOMEN'S SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIP
BOSTON, Mass. — Western New England College placed second among six teams at the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Women's Swimming Championship last Saturday (Dec. 4) at Simmons College. Host Simmons won the event with 260 points followed by WNEC at 115. St. Joseph (Connecticut) was third (79) followed by Elms (70), Wheelock (56), and Norwich (53).
Senior co-captain Kelli Arsenault (Branford, CT) led the Golden Bears by winning three events, the 50-yard backstroke (30.73, 30.28 prelims), 100 backstroke (GNAC record 1:05.09), and 200 freestyle (2:14.09, 2:13.81 prelims).
Sophomore Ashley Korbut (South Hadley, MA) was a double winner taking the 500 freestyle (5:55.08) and 50 butterfly (31.19, 30.98 prelims) events while placing third in the 100 butterfly (1:14.10).
Senior co-captain Jennifer McCormick (Cheshire, CT) finished second in the 100 butterfly (1:06.80) and third in both the 100 breaststroke (1:17.07) and 200 individual medley (2:30.37, 2:29.34 prelims).
Other point scorers: Junior Karen McCauley (Middletown, CT) placed fourth in the 100 butterfly (1:17.98, 1:16.65 prelims) and fifth in both the 100 backstroke (1:16.94, 1:15.97 prelims) and 1000 freestyle (13:09.23, 13:08.49 prelims).
Freshman Lindsay Frenkel (Watertown, CT) placed sixth in the 50 backstroke (35.70, 35.59 prelims), sixth in the 100 backstroke (1:19.60, 1:17.96 prelims), and eighth in the 50 freestyle (31.69, 31.56 prelims).
Freshman Christa Melillo (Adams, MA) finished sixth in the 50 breaststroke (39.50).
Sophomore Christina Fournier (Manchester, NH) took eighth in both the 100 freestyle (1:10.34) and 100 breaststroke (1:30.36, 1:28.62 prelims).
Western New England College's 200 medley relay team of Arsenault, McCormick, Korbut, and McCauley finished second in 2:07.77.
Western New England College's 400 freestyle relay team of Fournier, Melillo, freshman Laura Sobolewski (East Hartford, CT), and Frenkel placed sixth in 4:55.66 (4:55.54 prelims).
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE HOST OF THIRD ANNUAL PIONEER VALLEY WOMEN'S HOOP CLASSIC
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — The Alumni Healthful Living Center at Western New England College will be the site of the third annual Pioneer Valley Women's Hoop Classic this Friday and Saturday (Dec. 3-4).
In opening round action Friday, WNEC hosts Springfield College at 6:00 p.m. followed by a game between Amherst College and Westfield State College at approximately 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, Amherst meets Springfield at 2:00 p.m. followed by the WNEC-Westfield State match-up at approximately 4:00 p.m.
Western New England College (1-1) opened its season with a 56-50 overtime win at WPI followed by a 62-59 loss against Fitchburg State in its home opener. Junior center Lisa Masella (Newtown, CT) is the Golden Bears' top player averaging 12.0 points and 14.0 rebounds a contest. Senior forward Shelley Everson (Plainville, CT) is second in scoring (9.0) and rebounding (4.5). Masella and Everson are serving as team captains. A third captain, junior guard Jessica Harrica (Morrisonville, NY) is out for the season with an injury.
Springfield (2-1) defeated host Virginia Wesleyan (66-60) and lost to St. Benedict, Minnesota (84-52) at the Tyson Tip-Off Classic. The Pride beat Western Connecticut (61-45) in its home debut. Junior forward Courtney Parvin (Brackney, PA) leads the team in scoring with a 12.7 average. Senior forward Kacey Wunsch (Londonderry, NH) is the top rebounder (10.3).
Amherst (3-1) opened its season with a second place showing at the Colby-Sawyer Tip-Off Tournament beating Albertus Magnus (72-47) and losing to host Colby-Sawyer (55-46). Amherst posted a victory over Mount Holyoke (67-51) in its first home game and defeated host Keene State in its last start (55-33). Junior Katie Latham (Wakefield, MA) is the leading scorer (11.7 avg.) while freshman forward Matia Kostakis (Andover, MA) is the top rebounder (9.5).
Westfield State (2-1) opened its season by finishing third at the Franklin & Marshall Tournament. The Owls lost to Defiance, Ohio (67-60) in the first round before defeating host F&M (70-52). Westfield State recorded an impressive road victory over Trinity (72-61) in its last start. Freshman Kyana Zavala (Springfield, MA) leads the Owls in scoring (17.0 avg.); she is coming off a 19-point performance against Trinity. Junior forward Amanda Chapin (Westfield, MA) is the squad's top rebounder (10.0).
Amherst has a perfect 4-0 record in the classic tournament format followed by Springfield and Westfield State each with 2-2 marks, and WNEC at 0-4.
2003
Results at Amherst
Friday,
Dec. 5 — Westfield State 57, WNEC 35; Amherst 60, Springfield 59.
Saturday,
Dec. 6 — Springfield 51, Westfield State 50; Amherst 84, WNEC 59.
2002
Results at Springfield
Friday,
Dec. 6 — Westfield State 56, Springfield 50; Amherst 64, WNEC 43.
Saturday,
Dec. 7 — Amherst 61, Westfield State 56; Springfield 60, WNEC 46.
BASKETBALL PLAYERS ANTHONY CHARBATJI AND MEGAN FERGUSON WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE ATHLETES-OF-THE-WEEK
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Basketball players Anthony Charbatji (Attleboro, MA) and Megan Ferguson (Plainville, CT) were honored Tuesday (Nov. 30) as the Western New England College Male and Female Athletes-of-the-Week.
Charbatji, a senior forward and team co-captain, was named to the Muhlenberg Scotty Wood All-Tournament Team after scoring 30 points with seven rebounds in two games. He had 18 points with five rebounds, two assists, and two steals in a 62-49 victory over Hartwick College in the third-place game. Charbatji is a Business major.
Ferguson, a freshman guard, scored 12 points in her collegiate debut and made a key free throw with 1/10 of the second left in regulation in a 56-50 overtime win at WPI. She made 10-o-13 free throws, including all four shots in the final 29 seconds to preserve the win. Ferguson also pulled down six rebounds and had five assists. A Business major, she also was named the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Women's Basketball Rookie-of-the-Week on Monday (Nov. 29).
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE SOPHOMORE ALLISON JAMESON NAMED TO NFHCA DIVISION III NEW ENGLAND EAST REGION TEAM
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College sophomore forward Allison Jameson (Brattleboro, VT) was named Monday (Nov. 22) to the 2004 STX/National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) Division III New England East Region All-Star First Team.
Jameson led the Golden Bears in scoring for the second straight year with 50 points (22 goals, 6 assists) this fall that was the second best total in school history. She is a two-time North Atlantic Conference (NAC) First Team selection. Last year Jameson was the NAC Rookie-of-the-Year. A business major, she is fourth on the school's all-time scoring list with 76 points.
Western New England College posted a 14-9 record that was a school record for wins, breaking the old mark of 12 set two years ago. The Golden Bears captured the regular season NAC title with an 8-1 mark and placed second in the conference tournament.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE WOMEN'S BASKETBALL GUARD JESSICA HARRICA OUT FOR SEASON WITH INJURY
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College women's basketball junior guard Jessica Harrica (Morrisonville, NY) will miss the 2004-05 season with a torn right Achilles tendon, coach Wendy Davis announced Wednesday (Nov. 17).
Harrica, a team captain, suffered the injury in practice on Monday (Nov. 15). She will have surgery to repair the damage next Tuesday (Nov. 23), the same day the Golden Bears open their season at WPI.
"This is a big blow to our team because Jessica is a leader on the court," said Davis. "She plays hard and with a lot of passion, and was our rock to lean on. We need to regroup and find players who are willing to step up to this new challenge."
A psychology major, Harrica started all 26 games last year averaging 5.0 points last season while leading the team in assists (116) and steals (51).
WNEC posted a 16-10 a year ago for its sixth consecutive winning season and fifth under Davis.
SENIOR LOREN ESTABROOK AND JUNIOR ERINNE GOODWIN WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE ATHLETES-OF-THE-WEEK
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Football place-kicker Loren Estabrook (Sharon, NH) and soccer midfielder Erinne Goodwin (East Longmeadow, MA) were honored Tuesday (Nov. 16) as the Western New England College Male and Female Athletes-of-the-Week.
Estabrook, a senior math major, was named to the All-New England Football Conference First Team. He led the conference in field goals (7-for-12, 58.3%) and was second in kick scoring (44 points). Estabrook also made 23-of-26 extra points. He ended his career as the school's top kick scorer (95 points) after making 59-of-67 extra points and 12-of-24 field goals. Western New England College posted a 5-4 record this fall for its first winning season in six years.
Goodwin, a junior psychology major, was selected to the All-Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) First Team after scoring 20 points (7 goals, 6 assists) that was second on the team in scoring this fall. Western New England College posted a 12-8-1 record and placed second in the GNAC Tournament for the second straight year.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE SENIOR JOHN SCHMALBERGER NAMED GNAC MEN'S SOCCER PLAYER-OF-THE-YEAR
Erin Sullivan tabbed GNAC Coach-of-the-Year; Eight players make All-GNAC squad
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College senior back John Schmalberger (Berlin, CT) has been named the 2004 All-Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Men's Soccer Player-of-the-Year.
Schmalberger anchored the Golden Bears defense that compiled 14 shutouts this fall while allowing only 16 goals in 23 matches. He also made the All-GNAC First Team with senior goalie Jay Martyn (Poughkeepsie, NY), senior midfielder Scott Thornton (Bedford, NH), sophomore midfielder Tim Larocca (East Longmeadow, MA), and sophomore forward Kofi Oteng (Worcester, MA).
All-GNAC Second Team honors were awarded to junior forward Mike Schnepp (Feeding Hills, MA), junior back Scott Meikle (New Milford, CT), and sophomore back Mike Zawislak (Newark, DE).
Martyn compiled a 0.50 goals-against-average with nine shutouts in 17 matches. Thornton (6 goals, 4 assists) and Schnepp (5 goals, 6 assists) tied for second on the team in scoring with 16 points. Oteng contributed 11 points (4 goals, 3 assists) while Larocca added nine points (2 goals, 5 assists). Meikle and Zawislak helped lead the defensive unit that posted a school record 14 shutouts this season.
Erin Sullivan was voted the GNAC Coach-of-the-Year after directing the Golden Bears to a 16-6-1 record that was a school record for wins, breaking the old mark of 15 established in 1975.
Western New England College captured the GNAC regular season title with a 9-0 mark (all by shutouts) and won their first GNAC Tournament crown with a 1-0 victory over Johnson & Wales University. WNEC advanced to its first NCAA Division III Championship dropping a 1-0 decision at Roger Williams University in a first round match.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE LANDS SEVEN PLAYERS ON ALL-GNAC WOMEN'S SOCCER TEAM
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Seven Western New England College players have been selected to the 2004 All-Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Women's Soccer Team.
All-GNAC First Team honors went to junior back Melissa Fleshman (Troy, NY), junior midfielder Erinne Goodwin (East Longmeadow, MA), sophomore forward Megan DeAngelo (East Longmeadow, MA), and sophomore goalie Marisa Sullivan (Halesite, NY).
Junior back Renee Robichaud (Peabody, MA), sophomore midfielder Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH), and freshman forward Danielle Matte (Nashua, NH) made the All-GNAC Second Team.
DeAngelo led the Golden Bears in scoring with 41 points (16 goals, 9 assists) followed by Goodwin with 20 points (7 goals, 6 assists), and Matte with 19 points (8 goals, 3 assists).
Thornton was a repeat selection on the second squad after scoring 14 points (3 goals, 8 assists) despite playing with injuries most of the season.
Fleshman (a honorable mention selection last year) and Robichaud anchored the defensive unit that allowed only 29 goals in 21 matches.
Sullivan started all 21 contests compiling a 1.30 goals-against-average with nine shutouts.
Western New England College posted a 12-8-1 record and placed second in the GNAC Tournament for the second straight year. The Golden Bears outscored their opponents by a 63-29 margin this past season.
FIVE WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE PLAYERS NAMED TO ALL-NEW ENGLAND FOOTBALL CONFERENCE TEAM
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Five Western New England College players were selected to the 2004 All-New England Football Conference (NEFC) Team.
Gaining first team honors were a pair of seniors, running back Mike Laroche (Berlin, CT) and place-kicker Loren Estabook (Sharon, NH). Sophomore kickoff return specialist Vitaly Dzhenzheruka (Chicopee, MA) was a second team selection while senior defensive end Ryan Ascenzo (Bristol, CT) and senior offensive tackle Andrew Zell (Hurley, NY) both received an honorable mention.
Laroche, a finance major, finished second in the NEFC in rushing with 975 yards (108.3 avg.) and first in scoring with 90 points (15 touchdowns). He made his final collegiate game a memorable one by rushing for a career high 250 yards and four touchdowns (including a school record 92-yarder) in a 35-31 win over Nichols College. Laroche ended his career second on the all-time school-rushing list (2,587 yards) and second in scoring (158 points).
Estabrook, a math major, led the conference in field goals (7-for-12, 58.3%) and was second in kick scoring (44 points). He also made 23-of-26 extra points. Estabrook ended his career as the school's top kick scorer (95 points) after making 59-of-67 extra points and 12-of-24 field goals.
Dzhenzheruka, a business major, was second in the NEFC with a 23.2 average for 20 kickoff returns, including a 79-yard return for his first collegiate touchdown against Salve Regina University.
Ascenzo, a history major, was second on the team with 62 tackles, including 7 1/2 for losses along with two forced fumbles.
Zell, a sport management major, received an honorable mention on the NEFC team for the second straight season.
Western New England College posted a 5-4 record this fall for its first winning season in six years. The Golden Bears were first in the conference in fourth down conversion (14-for-23, 60.9%), second in red zone offense (26-for-31, 83.9%), fourth in scoring offense (24.9 avg.) and fifth in turnover margin (0.67).
THREE WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE PLAYERS SELECTED TO ALL-NORTH ATLANTIC CONFERENCE (NAC) FIELD HOCKEY TEAM
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Three Western New England College players have been selected to the 2004 North Atlantic Conference (NAC) Field Hockey Team.
Sophomore forward Allison Jameson (Brattleboro, VT) and junior forward Alyssa Katz (Cortlandt Manor, NY) made the All-NAC First Team while junior defender Megan Cloutier (Greenfield, MA) was named to the All-NAC Second Team.
Jameson is a repeat selection on the first unit after leading the Golden Bears in scoring for the second straight year with 50 points (22 goals, 6 assists) that was the second best total in school history. Last year she was the NAC Rookie-of-the-Year. A business major, Jameson is fourth on the school's all-time scoring list with 76 points.
Katz, a marketing major, was second on the team with 30 points (11 goals, 8 assists). She was an All-NAC Second Team selection her freshman season. Katz is the school's third all-time leading scorer with 82 points.
Cloutier was the squad's top defensive player who also contributed seven points (3 goals, 1 assist). She is a criminal justice major and a pitcher on the school's nationally ranked softball team.
Western New England College posted a 14-9 record that was a school record for wins, breaking the old mark of 12 set two years ago. The Golden Bears captured the regular season NAC title with an 8-1 mark and placed second in the conference tournament.
BOB SKELTON RETIRES AS WRESTLING COACH AT WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE AFTER 30 YEARS
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Citing health reasons, Bob Skelton has retired as the wrestling coach at Western New England College effective immediately.
Skelton informed athletics director Mike Theulen of his decision on Friday.
Skelton started the wrestling program at Western New England College in 1974 and compiled a 402-256-7 record (61.0 winning percentage) in 30 seasons.
A former president of the NCAA Division III Wrestling Coaches Association, Skelton coached one Olympian (Rodney Smith), 137 All-New England Division III wrestlers, 27 New England champions, 13 NCAA Division III All-Americans, and 33 Academic All-Americans.
Skelton was elected to the NCAA Division III National Coaches Hall of Fame in 1997 and the WNEC Downes Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001.
Theulen also announced that assistant coaches Dwayne Dawson and Jeff Peterson would serve as co-head coaches for the remainder of the season.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE FRESHMAN ASHLEY O'KEEFE NAMED GNAC WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL ROOKIE-OF-THE-YEAR
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College freshman Ashley O'Keefe (South Dennis, MA) has been selected the 2004 Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Women's Volleyball Rookie-of-the-Year.
O'Keefe, a 5'11" middle hitter, also was named to the All-GNAC First Team after leading the Golden Bears in hitting percentage (.347), solo blocks (81), and total blocks (187).
Senior setter Mandee Signor (East Haven, CT) and sophomore outside hitter Amy Lorinovich (Hampstead, NH) made the All-GNAC Second Team.
Signor led the team in assists (729) while Lorinovich was first in kills (302). She was a three-time All-GNAC Second Team honoree. Lorinovich made the All-GNAC Third team as a rookie.
O'Keefe and Signor are sport management majors while Lorinovich is a marketing/advertising major.
Western New England College posted a 20-15 record for its sixth straight winning season and third straight 20-win campaign. The Golden Bears also placed third in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) with an 8-2 mark.
SENIOR RUNNING BACK MIKE LAROCHE RECIPIENT OF BOSTON GLOBE GOLD HELMET AWARD AS NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE DIVISION PLAYER-OF-THE-WEEK
Berlin, Connecticut native also receives other honors for brillant performance
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College senior running back Mike Laroche (Berlin, CT) received The Boston Globe Gold Helmet Award as the New England Football College Division (II-III) Player-of-the-Week Wednesday (Nov. 10) at the football writers luncheon held at Harvard University.
Laroche made his final collegiate game a memorable one by rushing for a career high 250 yards on a school record 52 carries with a school record tying four touchdowns in a 35-31 win over Nichols College last Saturday. It was the Golden Bears' first win over the Bison in five meetings and only the seventh victory in 21 games.
More importantly, it gave Western New England College a 5-4 record for its first winning season in six years (WNEC was 5-4 in 1998).
Laroche was the main reason scoring three of his touchdowns (school record 92 yards, 1 and 1 yards) in the third quarter to help the Golden Bears rally from a 21-point half-time deficit (28-7). He also scored the game's first touchdown on a 10-yard run.
A finance major, Laroche finished second in the New England Football Conference in rushing with 975 yards (108.3 per game average) and first in scoring with 90 points (15 touchdowns). He ended his career second on the all-time Western New England College rushing list (2,587 yards) and second in scoring (158 points).
Laroche, the NEFC offensive Player-of-the-Week, had four 100-yard games this season and 10 during his career.
Mike's
weekly honors
1.
Boston Globe/New England Football Writers College Division Gold
Helmet Award Winner
2.
NEFC Offensive Player-of-the-Week
3.
ECAC Division III New England Co-Player-of-the-Week
4. d3football.com
Team-of-the-Week
SOCCER CAPTAIN JOHN SCHMALBERGER AND KIM BEZIO NAMED WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE ATHLETES-OF-THE-WEEK
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Soccer captain John Schmalberger (Berlin, CT) and volleyball player Kim Bezio (Plattsburgh, NY) were honored Tuesday (Nov. 9) as the Western New England College Male and Female Athletes-of-the-Week.
Schmalberger, a senior defender, was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2004 Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Men's Soccer Tournament after the Golden Bears captured their first conference title with wins over Rivier (4-1), Norwich (3-0), and Johnson & Wales (1-0). He also was named the GNAC Men's Soccer Player-of-the-Week. With Schmalberger leading the way, WNEC (16-5-1) set a school record for wins, breaking the old mark of 15 set in 1975. The Golden Bears also recorded 14 shutouts. Western New England College will make its inaugural appearance in the NCAA Division III Tournament with a first round match at Roger Williams on Wednesday (Nov. 10). Schmalberger is a business major.
Bezio, a freshman outside hitter, had 24 kills, eight digs, three blocks, and a .324 hitting percentage in matches against Suffolk and Johnson & Wales in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Women's Volleyball Tournament. A business major, Bezio was second on the team in hitting percentage (.276) and third in kills (267). The Golden Bears posted a 20-15 record for their sixth consecutive winning season and third straight 20-win campaign.
In other news, Western New England College senior Jay Martyn (Poughkeepsie, NY) was named the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Men's Soccer Goalie-of-the-Week for the fifth time this season on Monday (Nov. 8). Martyn allowed only one goal in 255 minutes covering three matches as the Golden Bears captured their first GNAC tournament title with wins over Rivier (4-1), Norwich (3-0), and Johnson & Wales (1-0). He has a 0.46 goals-against-average and nine shutouts in 16 matches. Martyn is a sport management major. Western New England College will make its inaugural appearance in the NCAA Division III Tournament with a first round match at Roger Williams on Wednesday (Nov. 10).
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE FIELD HOCKEY TEAM VISITS BABSON COLLEGE IN ECAC DIVISION III NEW ENGLAND FIELD HOCKEY TOURNAMENT
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — The best season in Western New England College field hockey history continues when the fifth-seeded Golden Bears visit fourth-seeded Babson College at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday (Nov. 10) in a quarterfinal round game of the 2004 ECAC Division III New England Tournament.
This will be the program's first ECAC post-season appearance in its 24-year history. The Golden Bears enter the tournament with a 14-8 record, which is a school record for wins, breaking the old mark of 12 set two years ago.
Sophomore Allison Jameson (Brattleboro, VT) leads the team in scoring with 50 points (22 goals, 6 assists) followed by junior Alyssa Katz (Cortlandt Manor, NY) with 30 points (11 goals, 8 assists), and freshman Cori Eggert (Denville, NJ) with 21 points (9 goals, 3 assists). Junior goalie Jillian Brown (Plymouth, MA) has a 2.58 goals-against-average and 76.6 save percentage.
Babson blanked Western New England College 6-0 in the regular season meeting on October 26.
Western New England College captured its first ever regular season North Atlantic Conference (NAC) crown with an 8-1 mark, but finished second in the NAC Tournament after losing to Maine-Farmington 2-1 in the championship game last Saturday.
In other games Wednesday, top-seeded Plymouth State hosts No. 8 Worcester State; No. 2 Wellesley entertains No. 7 Simmons, and No. 6 Clark hosts No. 3 Endicott. The highest remaining seeds will host tournament semifinals on Saturday followed by the championship game on Sunday.
WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE VISITS ROGER WILLIAMS COLLEGE IN FIRST ROUND OF NCAA DIVISION III MEN'S SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College men's soccer team will make its inaugural appearance in the NCAA Division III Championship at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday (Nov. 10) against Roger Williams College in a first round match in Bristol, Rhode Island.
The Golden Bears advanced to the national tournament after capturing its first Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament title with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Johnson & Wales University last Saturday at Suprenant Field.
Sophomore forward Kwame Ofosu (Aurora, CO) scored the winning goal with an assist from senior Scott Thornton (Bedford, NH) just 43 seconds into the second half. Senior back John Schmalberger (Berlin, CT) was named the Most Valuable Player of the GNAC Tournament after anchoring the Golden Bears' defense that allowed only one goal (a WNEC own goal) in three matches.
Ofosu, senior goalie Jay Martyn (Poughkeepsie, NY), and sophomore midfielder Tim Larocca (East Longmeadow, MA) made the GNAC All-Tournament Team.
After a pre-season trip to Europe in August for a series of exhibition matches against various club teams, Western New England College (16-5-1) established a school record for wins this season, breaking the old mark of 15 set in 1975 when the Golden Bears placed fourth at the NAIA Championship.
Fifth-year coach Erin Sullivan saw his team compile a school-record 14 shutouts this fall that included nine consecutive regular season wins over conference opponents. The Golden Bears also posted a 1-0 victory over then No. 15 Keene State College and a 3-1 decision over city rival Springfield College in non-conference action.
Western New England College outscored its rivals by a 60-15 margin as ten players scored 10 or more points.
Sophomore forward Evan Heymann (Ipswich, MA) leads the team with 17 points (6 goals, 5 assists) in 20 matches off the bench followed by Thornton (6-4) and junior forward Mike Schnepp (Feeding Hills, MA) (5-6) each with 16 points. Martyn has a 0.46 goals-against-average with nine shutouts.
"I am absolutely overjoyed for our entire team, especially for our seven seniors, who have been the architects of this program from day one," said Sullivan. "They have endured some difficult post season performances only to return more dedicated. Our victory over Johnson & Wales is the culmination of four years of their hard work and sacrifices.
Sullivan added, "We are honored to represent our program, College, and conference in the NCAA Tournament. We consider it a privilege and look forward to competing on the national stage." WNEC lost to Roger Williams 1-0 in a semifinal match of the 2002 ECAC Division III New England Tournament.
"Roger Williams has an outstanding program that we have emulated the last couple