Summer-Fall 2014 Newsletter
s c i t e l h t A s N I F F I R G
Photo Credit: Dave Miller Cover photos: Dymphena Clark
GRIFFIN ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER SUMMER/FALL 2014
w your jo in o r r e n e sh ip in si d e gaa member
g re et in g s fr om th e g ri ff in at hl et ic as so ci at io n Greetings from the Griffin Athletic Association (GAA)! I hope all of you enjoyed a lovely Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please enjoy this edition of the 2014 Summer & Fall Griffin Athletic Association Newsletter as we have lots of great news to share. To join or renew your GAA membership, please complete the membership form inside and use the remittance envelope provided. This past fall, the GAA hosted 14 tailgating events, which provide
GAA members an opportunity to enjoy camaraderie with each other and our student-athletes. The funds raised by the GAA assist each program in providing the “above and beyond” items for our student-athletes to continue their success in the classroom and on the field. Your generous support also helps the University with larger upgrades, such as the current renovations to our softball facility. For your generous support of our 439 student-athletes, thank you! I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming game or event in 2015.
Kind regards, Kris Smith Griffin Athletic Association
gr if fi ns fi ni sh nu mb er on e in th e ps ac fo r ov er al l gp a In just their first year of competition in the highly touted Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC), the Griffins claimed the conference title for having the overall highest GPA! Our Griffins maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.327 throughout the 2013-14 academic year. “To have the highest grade point average in the PSAC and to have seven of our programs have the highest GPA in their respective sports is quite a testament to the work ethic of our studentathletes,” stated athletic director Chris Snyder.
The seven programs that led the PSAC were women’s basketball, women’s cross country, women’s golf, men’s soccer, women’s tennis, women’s track and field and wrestling. The remaining programs all finished in the top half of their respective sports as well. Congratulations to all of our student-athletes and coaches for setting the bar so high in our first year in the PSAC.
! e t a d e h t e sav The 2015 Doug Wood Memorial Golf Classic will be held Friday, June 12, 2015 at Arnold Palmer’s Latrobe County Club. 1
fr om th e at hl et ic dir ec to r’ s de sk Dear Griffin Fans, It certainly was an exciting summer and fall here on the Hill! Over the summer, we held our annual Doug Wood Memorial Golf Classic. Thanks to many of you that participated, we had our most successful event ever! Proceeds from the event were used to install a wall at Dick’s Sporting Goods Field, begin a major renovation of the softball field, and purchase Atlantic Regional Championship rings for our baseball team. Thank you to all that participated and I look forward to seeing you at this year’s event. In addition, the summer brought two head coaching changes. Bill Monstrola was selected to lead our softball program and Becki Bloom took over the equestrian program.
2
The Griffin volleyball team got the fall semester started in outstanding fashion. The ladies went on to post the most wins in school history with 32 victories! The team earned the right to host the PSAC Championships, but unfortunately fell in the title game. However, the team was rewarded with its second straight NCAA tournament appearance and advanced to the Atlantic Regional semifinal. The Griffins were led by Shelby Kyllo and Corrine Gahagen who were both named first Team All-PSAC, ECAC All-Stars, Daktronics and American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) All-Region teams. Lastly, head coach Rick Hall was named Atlantic Region Coach of the Year. The men’s soccer team had an excellent fall recording
the most wins since we became active members in the NCAA. The team earned a spot in the PSAC semifinal and narrowly missed an NCAA Tournament spot. The team did advance to their first ECAC Championship game. There were several other Griffins that turned in an excellent fall campaign, including football players FJ Williams and Arthur Tsapdong along with women’s cross country runner Meagen Carter, who all earned First Team All-PSAC Honors. In addition, multiple Griffins earned Second and Third Team AllPSAC Honors. Academically, 19 of our 21 teams posted a semester grade point average of better than a 3.0. Academic highlights include Tyler Zimmer (football) being named for the second time to the Capital One First Team All-American Academic Team; Corrine Gahagen (volleyball) being named for the second time to the Capital One Academic All-District Team, and Hanna Marks (women’s soccer) being named to the Capital One Academic All-District Team. Finally, both of our soccer teams received the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Team Academic Award. Stay warm this winter. I look forward to seeing you on campus for our winter and spring sports action! Kind Regards,
Chris Snyder Executive Director for Athletics
a ha rd - fo ug ht se as on The women’s soccer team finished a hard-fought season with an overall record of 5-10-3. As a team, the Griffins nearly defeated two highly-ranked teams during the season. In mid-October, the team played with heart against the No. 5 East Stroudsburg Warriors, losing 2-1 during the final minutes of the contest. The next week, the Griffins hosted No. 11 West Chester at home in a grueling match that lasted nearly 110 minutes into two overtimes but ended in a 3-2 loss to the Golden Rams. Although the team lost these close matches, their heart and teamwork throughout the season was impressive. The Griffins also had the unique opportunity to host several teams from Great Britain during this year’s British Invasion. With the addition of freshman midfielder and Scotland native Emma Porteous, the coaching staff recognized that European soccer is a different style of play. By hosting the British soccer teams, the women became accustomed to new game strategies. Several players received recognitions for their academic accomplishments and athletic
performances during the season. Senior defender Erika Wisniewski and junior midfielder Alex McIntosh were both named to the All-PSAC Women’s Soccer Team. The teams are selected by the league’s head coaches and are based on overall statistics throughout the season. In addition, senior defender Hanna Marks was named to the Capital One Academic All-District Women’s Soccer Team. Marks was selected for her 3.98 GPA in mathematics and is one of the top studentathletes in the United States and Canada. Finally, the Griffin Athletic Association thanks the following seniors for their four years of devotion to Seton Hill athletics: Andrea Wisniewski, Erica Wisniewski, Cayla Walters and Jessica Walton.
Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
3
s k o o b e h t one for
4
The Seton Hill men’s soccer team finished one of its most successful seasons in University history with an overall record of 12-7-2, placing third overall in the PSAC. The team also made appearances in both the PSAC semifinals and ECAC tournament.
of the toughest men’s soccer conferences in the country, you need high-level players in order to be competitive and these guys bring that to our program. Having a good balance of American and international players on the team is vital to our success.”
The team’s roster included nine players from Great Britain and one from Scotland, who play a different style of soccer than in the United States. “The American game is more athletic and physical than the European game,” said head coach Dan McCarty. “We try to make our training sessions a bit more technical in nature, but we need to address the pressing game that many teams use. Playing in arguably one
Several members of the team received individual honors for their performance throughout the season. Forward Bovey Masiole and midfielder Joe Tchimou, both graduate students, sophomore defender Harrison Howes, and sophomore midfielder Joe Smith were named to the All-PSAC Men’s Soccer Team, which is determined by the league’s head coaches. Howes and Smith were also both named to the ECAC Division II Men’s Soccer All-Star teams. In addition to conference recognitions, Smith and Tchimou also received regional recognition by being named to the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) and the Continental Tire NCAA All-Atlantic Region Team.
m en ’s an d w om en ’s so cc er am on g th e el it e in th e cl as sr oo m Off the field, the Seton Hill men’s and women’s soccer teams both found academic success. The Griffins were awarded the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Team Academic Award for the 2013-14 academic year. This honor requires the entire team to hold a minimum GPA of 3.25 for the entire 2014 academic year. Out of 861 collegiate soccer teams, the Seton Hill soccer teams were one of the 195 schools that had both programs qualify for the award. Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
V is it se to n h il l. ed u / a th le ti cs fo r m or e g ri ff in n ew s fr om ou r a rc h iv es
The Griffin Athletic Association thanks the following seniors for their contributions and time to Seton Hill Athletics: Tyler Breth, Bovey Masiole, Joe Tchimou and Nick Cozad. Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
5
w om en ’s vo ll ey ba ll m ak es hi st or y The women’s volleyball team completed their most successful season in the history of the program this fall. Finishing second in the PSAC West after a close championship match with California University of Pennsylvania, the women set a new school record with a 32-6 overall record for the season.
second straight year. Maintaining a 3.81 GPA in biology, Gahagen is recognized for her hard work on the court and in the classroom.
In efforts to raise awareness for breast cancer, the Griffins hosted their annual Griffins Pink Match in October. Although the women recorded an important victory over California University of Pennsylvania, the meaning behind Under the leadership of Rick Hall the event was more significant. The during his 27th season with Seton large, cheering crowd dressed in Hill, the Griffins appeared in the pink was a great representation of NCAA Divison II Atlantic Regional playoffs for the second straight year. the Seton Hill community’s support of breast cancer awareness. This year, the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Finally, the Griffin recognized Coach Hall as the 2014 Athletic Association Atlantic Region Coach of the Year. would like to Coach Hall’s recognition follows a recognize seniors season during which the Griffins Courtney Field, advanced to the NCAA Division II Atlantic Regional Semifinals for the Corrine Gahagen, Jenna Snyder, and first time in school history. Larissa Santangelo Senior Corrine Gahagen and junior for their continuous hard work and Shelby Kyllo received several dedication to the awards and recognitions for their women’s volleyball performances throughout the program. Without 2014-15 season. Both middles each of their were named to the ECAC Division contributions to II Volleyball All-Star Teams, practices, games, Daktronics All-Atlantic Region and academics, Team, AVCA All-Region Team, this season may and were on the All-PSAC West not have been first team. In addition to her performance on the court, Gahagen possible! was also named to the Capital One Academic All-District Team for the 6
Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
al ex ol be te r be co m es th e ne w es t m em be r of th e m eN ’s so cc er te am What makes a good season? The men’s soccer team finished one of the most successful seasons in school history with a record of 12-7-2, placed third in the PSAC, and saw several awards and recognitions both on and off the field. A good season is hard to come by playing in such a competitive conference but every so often, a team is fortunate to experience a great season. What makes a great season? On September 16, the Griffins held a special ceremony to “sign” their newest player, Alex Olbeter. Alex is a 7-year-old boy who suffers from the genetic tumor disorder neurofibromatosis. Surrounded by his family, students, faculty, and staff, the team adopted Alex through Team IMPACT, a national program that pairs children with life-threatening illnesses with college athletic teams. The team participated in the program in hopes of improving Alex’s quality of life but his signing holds a special place in the players’ and coaches’ hearts. “Our guys, they see what he goes through every day. It gives them
some perspective, and they’re glad to be able to help,” said coach Dan McCarty. The team grew close to Alex throughout the season, spending time with him at practices, scrimmages, at dinner with Alex’s family, and even in the locker room where Alex has his own locker. “Alex comes and supports us, and we go and support him,” explained sophomore defenseman Jack Wardale. “The entire team loves Alex, and he loves being part of our team.” The Seton Hill community is grateful to participate in such an incredible experience with Alex and Team IMPACT. Alex continues the fight against neurofibromatosis with the full support of the team. “We hope we can provide him support and camaraderie as he fights for a healthy future,” said McCarty. Photo credit: Dave Miller
7
Griffin Athletic Association
April 21st . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Indiana University of Pennsylvania (DH) . . . . . . . . 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
April 17th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Edinboro University of Pennsylvania (DH) . . . . . . . 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
April 14th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. California University of Pennsylvania (DH) . . . . . . 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
April 11th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Slippery Rock University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 8th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Point Park University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3:30 p.m. & 5:30 p.m.
April 4th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Gannon University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 3rd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Mercyhurst University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
March 28th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown (DH) . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
March 20th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Clarion University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
softball
April 24th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Mercyhurst University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 18th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Gannon University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 11th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Slippery Rock University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 7th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Shepherd University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 3rd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Clarion University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
March 28th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Indiana University of Pennsylvania (DH) . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
March 20th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown (DH) . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
March 17th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Davis & Elkins College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30 p.m.
March 15th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. California University of Pennsylvania (DH) . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
baseball
April 10th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Edinboro University of Pennsylvania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
March 28th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Clarion University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:30 p.m.
March 21st . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Slippery Rock University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:30 p.m.
WoMen’s tennis
April 22nd . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. East Stroudsburg University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:00 p.m.
April 14th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Bloomsburg University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
Aptil 4th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Kutztown University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3:00 p.m.
April 1st . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Mercyhurst University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
March 28th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Lock Haven University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.
March 27th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Shippensburg University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
March 21st . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Gannon University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3:00 p.m.
March 1st . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Shepherd University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.
February 25th . . . . . . . . . . vs. Lake Erie College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
woMen’s lacrosse
April 4th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Alderson Broaddus University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12:00 p.m.
March 24th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Walsh University (OH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
March 21st . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Mercyhurst University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12:00 p.m.
March 7th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Pfeiffer University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.
February 28th . . . . . . . . . . vs. Mercy College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.
February 21st . . . . . . . . . . vs. Chestnut Hill College. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.
Men’s lacrosse
setonhill.edu/athletics
@SetonHillGAA
spring 2015-Home Schedule
GRIFFINS ATHLETICS
2 0 14 d o u g w o o d m e m o r ia l g o l f cl a ss ic se t s r e co r d A sellout crowd of 128 guests was not turned away by a little rain at the 2014 Doug Wood Memorial Golf Classic. In fact, they embraced the inclement weather and had a great time despite a 90-minute lightning delay. As the rain continued, guests were draining putts, celebrating and cheering as if the US Open were being played at Latrobe Country Club. With everyone’s tremendous support, we raised $49,850, more than doubling our revenue from 2013. These funds were used immediately for planned upgrades to our softball facility at Seton Hill and at Dick’s Sporting Goods Field. The Doug Wood Memorial Golf Classic is named in honor of Doug Wood, a former trustee of Seton Hill University, whose
10
vision assisted in the expansion of athletics at Seton Hill. Thank you to the Wood Family for allowing us to honor Doug’s legacy at this annual event. “Each year, this event continues to grow and we are proud to be a part of the Seton Hill Community that Doug cherished,” stated Dan Wood. The Seton Hill Athletic Department would like to thank our first-ever Title Sponsor, ProGrass, for their continuing support of this event and athletics. Also, thank you to all of our sponsors, golfers, dinner guests, donors and committee members who make this event a great success each year. The 2015 Doug Wood Memorial Golf Classic will be held Friday, June 12, 2015 at Arnold Palmer’s Latrobe County Club. We hope to see you there.
well as All-PSAC West Football Team honors, joining junior cornerback Philip Moreland. Williams set three new Seton Hill records with 15 receptions in one game against California University of Pennsylvania, 261 receiving yards against Mercyhurst University and 1,071 receiving yards for the season.
griffin football continues to grow
Led by second year head football coach Isaac Collins, the team welcomed several new faces to the coaching staff, including defensive coordinator Gerard Wilcher, wide receivers coach Rich Yahner, quarterbacks coach and pass game coordinator Christopher Haupt, running backs and tight ends coach For the second straight year, Gerry Pacitti, and linebackers coach senior linebacker Tyler Zimmer was named to the Capital One Aaron McGinty. Academic All-American Division The Griffins experienced significant II Team carrying a 3.80 GPA. Senior quarterback Drew Jackson improvement this season finishing participated in the 2014 DII/NAIA with a record of 3-8 in the most Challenge in Myrtle Beach, S.C. as competitive conference in the part of the Collegiate Development country. Their most impressive Football League (CDFL) and victory came during the final the National Scouting game of the season on Senior Showcase. This event Day at Offutt Field in Greensburg. includes some of the best The Griffins returned two punts DII and NAIA players for touchdowns and added two in the country. passing touchdowns and four rushing touchdowns to beat The Griffin Cheyney 56-18. Athletic Association The 2014 season also would like to saw several honors and thank the Class recognitions for many players. of 2015 for their Senior defensive lineman tremendous Arthur Tsapdong and junior efforts over the last wide receiver FJ Williams four years. They were named to the USA include Lance College Football Division Williams, Tyler Zimmer, II All-American Teams. Drew Jackson, Chase Tsapdong and Williams Parker, Arthur Tsapdong, also earned ECAC Adam Ward, Rafal Garcarz Division II Football and Casey Smith. Good luck in All-Star Team all your endeavors. selections as Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
11
str ide s in the rig ht dir ect ion The 2014 season was another step in the right direction for the women’s cross country team. The women began their season with a strong runner-up finish at home in the 12th Annual Griffin Classic. For the second time in three years, the women’s cross country team placed first in the Non-Division I team bracket at the National Catholic Championships at Notre Dame University. The team then placed 10th out of 38 teams at the Greater Louisville Classic in Kentucky. The women also found success later in the season at the Carnegie Mellon Invitational at Schenley Park in Pittsburgh with a second place finish, just one point out of first place. Meagan Carter finished in first place overall with a time of 18:25, Leah Schott finished third with a time of 18:43 and Chelsie Poole finished in sixth place with a time of 19:01. 12
The team also participated in the ECAC Division II Cross Country Championships at Lamb’s Creek Cross Country Course. Strong finishes from Carter and Poole helped the Griffins to a third place finish. The women ended their season with an eighth place finish at the PSAC Championships. “After looking back on the season, our women’s cross country team once again continued the strong running tradition past teams have set before them by accomplishing many of their team and individual goals and again being one of the top teams in the Atlantic Region. I am excited about the 2015 season, which looks promising with five of the top seven women’s runners returning and another strong recruiting class,” said Coach Tim Creamer. The Griffin men opened up the season placing third in the 12th annual SHU Griffin Classic on campus. The men’s team also ran the 125th Slippery Rock Invitational. Led by junior Steve Lafferty’s 22nd place finish, the team finished fourth overall. The men also competed in the Greater Louisville Classic, finishing 19th out of 42 teams. Although the season was complicated by injuries throughout the fall, the men’s cross country team finished 14th in the PSAC Championships at Mansfield University’s Lamb Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
Creek Cross Country Course. “Our men’s cross country team, despite being young and inexperienced, showed signs of growth and development, which will be valuable in the 2015 season. I was proud of their effort and work ethic during the season,” Creamer said.
until early March when the outdoor season begins. The Griffin Athletic Association would like to thank these seniors for their dedication and efforts over the last four years: Mary Janak, Leah Schott, Riley Giaquinto, Carl Koehler and Christopher LaCava.
Both the men and women continue their training for the indoor track and field season, which began in early December and will continue
eq ue st ri an ri di ng to th e to p First-year equestrian head coach Becki Bloom has a lifelong passion for horses. “I honestly don’t remember the first time I was on a horse. It is just something that I always knew,” said Bloom, a native of Ebensburg, Pa. For over 20 years her coaching expertise has led many teams and individual riders across the United States to national championships. She has the same goal for the Seton Hill equestrian team. With a new coach, the Griffins plan to show their talent at the national horse show at the end of the season in Massachusetts. Currently standing in second place behind West Virginia University, the Lady Griffins’ first goal is to take the entire team to the Zone Championships. “It would be amazing to take a whole team to zones let alone just individual
women,” said Taylor Jansen, current graduate assistant for the Seton Hill equestrian team. “These women have been working so hard this season, and having Becki as a coach has proven to be successful for the team this past fall.” There are currently six women qualified for the regional championship show, which will be held at West Virginia University in March. The Griffins have three horse shows to win the conference, and the lady Griffins are confident in their ability to do so.
Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
13
bi ll mo ns tr ol a we lc om ed as th e ne w sk ipp er fo r so ft ba ll Seton Hill softball welcomed a familiar face to the program on July 1, 2014. Former volunteer coach Bill Monstrola (2005-07) will now be leading the program into its second season of PSAC play. “I am honored to be named the new head softball coach at Seton Hill University. My goal as head coach is to ensure our players are successful in the classroom to prepare them for their chosen profession upon graduation and for them to have great memories of their softball career at the University,” said Monstrola. Monstrola has spent the last four seasons on the other side of town at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg. He led the Bobcats to a record of 19-18 and a berth into the Allegheny Mountain College Conference (AMCC) Tournament and had five players earn AMCC AllConference honors. The Seton Hill community and the Griffin Athletic Association welcome Coach Monstrola to the Hill. Best of luck this season! 14
Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
women’s g olf sees a promisin g future The Seton Hill women’s golf team finished fifth in the PSAC Championships held at Hershey Country Club to end their season. Led by a ninth place tie by sophomore Emily Hassey and freshman Courtney Newport, the women finished with a score of 660 after the two-day event. A highlight of the season was the Griffins’ first place finish at the Sally Carroll Open held at Hannastown Golf Club. With a total score of 633, the team was led by Courtney Newport’s second place overall finish with a score of 156, freshman Gabrielle Gutierrez’s tie for third place and score of 159, senior Ashley Ward’s score of 160 for a fifth place finish, senior Morgan Miller’s seventh place finish with her score of 164, and sophomore Emily Hassey with a score of 166 for eighth place. Photo credit: Jason Greene
prog rass spon sors a pass , punt and kick chal leng e for a chan ce at $$10,0 00 During a cold and windy football game against Mercyhurst University, the Griffin fans were given an opportunity to participate in a Pass, Punt and Kick Challenge sponsored by ProGrass for a chance to win $10,000. Five lucky fans were randomly selected to
participate in the Challenge. The final participant completed all three challenges but unfortunately missed the field goal and the $10,000 prize. A special thank you to ProGrass for their sponsorship of the event and continuing support of Seton Hill Athletics.
15
GAANLSP15 724-834-2200 1-800-826-6234 @SetonHillGAA Griffin Athletic Association
Signature (required): p I do not wish to receive any benefits, my gift is 100% tax-deductible. p Please keep my gift anonymous.
Email:
Expiration Date:
Card Number:
p p p Phone:
Name(s):
setonhill.edu/athletics
Credit Card City, State, Zip:
p
Checks Make checks payable to: Seton Hill University Address:
Corporate Partnerships p Please contact me regarding Corporate Partnership Opportunities. pS pS
pM pM
pL pL
p XL p XL
p XXL p XXL
p XXXL p XXXL
Matching Gift p I have enclosed my (and/or my spouse’s) employer matching gift form(s).
p Griffin Platinum Club ($500+) p Griffin Silver Club ($100+) p Alumni/Friend Club ($25+)
p Faculty/Staff
p Other:
Gift Designation Please designate my gift to: p Sport:
p Griffin Diamond Club ($1,000+) p Griffin Gold Club ($200+) p Griffin Bronze Club ($50+)
Shirt Size(s): p Men’s p Women’s
Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
Membership Levels (please select one)
16
p Parent
In the classroom, the Griffins held a 3.3 cumulative grade point average. Three players earned a 4.0 GPA, and six held a GPA of 3.5 or higher. The team will be honored with the National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) National Field Hockey Team Award,
p Friend
Even though the team fell short in the “wins” column, they never lacked heart and effort. The young Griffins played several overtime games. The team’s two freshman goalies earned valuable experience, which will help set the stage for the 2015 season. Even though the wins and losses did not showcase the Griffins’ talent level, it clearly built the foundation and defined the growth to lead the women to future success.
p Alumni
which is awarded to teams with a 3.0 GPA or higher. Ten Griffins will be recognized by the National Academic Squad for receiving a 3.3 or higher through the NFHCA. This spring will be very beneficial as the Griffins look to become more successful all around in their offseason training.
JOIN THE GRIFFIN ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION TODAY!
The 2014 season for the Seton Hill Field Hockey team marked the start of a rebuilding cycle. After graduating six seniors, the Griffins opened preseason camp with a very young team of two juniors, nine sophomores and 10 freshmen. The team had to start from the beginning learning names, positions, playing styles and the intensity of Division II PSAC field hockey, which is home to many of the top programs in the country.
p General Athletics
y field hocke r o f c i t s i m i t op n g i a p m a c 5 1 20
Seton Hill Drive Greensburg, PA 15601-1599
GREENSBURG, PA PERMIT NO. 384
PAID
U.S .POSTAGE
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION
Photo Credit: Dave Miller Cover photos: Dymphena Clark
GRIFFIN ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER SUMMER/FALL 2014
w your jo in o r r e n e sh ip in si d e gaa member
g re et in g s fr om th e g ri ff in at hl et ic as so ci at io n Greetings from the Griffin Athletic Association (GAA)! I hope all of you enjoyed a lovely Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please enjoy this edition of the 2014 Summer & Fall Griffin Athletic Association Newsletter as we have lots of great news to share. To join or renew your GAA membership, please complete the membership form inside and use the remittance envelope provided. This past fall, the GAA hosted 14 tailgating events, which provide
GAA members an opportunity to enjoy camaraderie with each other and our student-athletes. The funds raised by the GAA assist each program in providing the “above and beyond” items for our student-athletes to continue their success in the classroom and on the field. Your generous support also helps the University with larger upgrades, such as the current renovations to our softball facility. For your generous support of our 439 student-athletes, thank you! I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming game or event in 2015.
Kind regards, Kris Smith Griffin Athletic Association
gr if fi ns fi ni sh nu mb er on e in th e ps ac fo r ov er al l gp a In just their first year of competition in the highly touted Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC), the Griffins claimed the conference title for having the overall highest GPA! Our Griffins maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.327 throughout the 2013-14 academic year. “To have the highest grade point average in the PSAC and to have seven of our programs have the highest GPA in their respective sports is quite a testament to the work ethic of our studentathletes,” stated athletic director Chris Snyder.
The seven programs that led the PSAC were women’s basketball, women’s cross country, women’s golf, men’s soccer, women’s tennis, women’s track and field and wrestling. The remaining programs all finished in the top half of their respective sports as well. Congratulations to all of our student-athletes and coaches for setting the bar so high in our first year in the PSAC.
! e t a d e h t e sav The 2015 Doug Wood Memorial Golf Classic will be held Friday, June 12, 2015 at Arnold Palmer’s Latrobe County Club. 1
fr om th e at hl et ic dir ec to r’ s de sk Dear Griffin Fans, It certainly was an exciting summer and fall here on the Hill! Over the summer, we held our annual Doug Wood Memorial Golf Classic. Thanks to many of you that participated, we had our most successful event ever! Proceeds from the event were used to install a wall at Dick’s Sporting Goods Field, begin a major renovation of the softball field, and purchase Atlantic Regional Championship rings for our baseball team. Thank you to all that participated and I look forward to seeing you at this year’s event. In addition, the summer brought two head coaching changes. Bill Monstrola was selected to lead our softball program and Becki Bloom took over the equestrian program.
2
The Griffin volleyball team got the fall semester started in outstanding fashion. The ladies went on to post the most wins in school history with 32 victories! The team earned the right to host the PSAC Championships, but unfortunately fell in the title game. However, the team was rewarded with its second straight NCAA tournament appearance and advanced to the Atlantic Regional semifinal. The Griffins were led by Shelby Kyllo and Corrine Gahagen who were both named first Team All-PSAC, ECAC All-Stars, Daktronics and American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) All-Region teams. Lastly, head coach Rick Hall was named Atlantic Region Coach of the Year. The men’s soccer team had an excellent fall recording
the most wins since we became active members in the NCAA. The team earned a spot in the PSAC semifinal and narrowly missed an NCAA Tournament spot. The team did advance to their first ECAC Championship game. There were several other Griffins that turned in an excellent fall campaign, including football players FJ Williams and Arthur Tsapdong along with women’s cross country runner Meagen Carter, who all earned First Team All-PSAC Honors. In addition, multiple Griffins earned Second and Third Team AllPSAC Honors. Academically, 19 of our 21 teams posted a semester grade point average of better than a 3.0. Academic highlights include Tyler Zimmer (football) being named for the second time to the Capital One First Team All-American Academic Team; Corrine Gahagen (volleyball) being named for the second time to the Capital One Academic All-District Team, and Hanna Marks (women’s soccer) being named to the Capital One Academic All-District Team. Finally, both of our soccer teams received the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Team Academic Award. Stay warm this winter. I look forward to seeing you on campus for our winter and spring sports action! Kind Regards,
Chris Snyder Executive Director for Athletics
a ha rd - fo ug ht se as on The women’s soccer team finished a hard-fought season with an overall record of 5-10-3. As a team, the Griffins nearly defeated two highly-ranked teams during the season. In mid-October, the team played with heart against the No. 5 East Stroudsburg Warriors, losing 2-1 during the final minutes of the contest. The next week, the Griffins hosted No. 11 West Chester at home in a grueling match that lasted nearly 110 minutes into two overtimes but ended in a 3-2 loss to the Golden Rams. Although the team lost these close matches, their heart and teamwork throughout the season was impressive. The Griffins also had the unique opportunity to host several teams from Great Britain during this year’s British Invasion. With the addition of freshman midfielder and Scotland native Emma Porteous, the coaching staff recognized that European soccer is a different style of play. By hosting the British soccer teams, the women became accustomed to new game strategies. Several players received recognitions for their academic accomplishments and athletic
performances during the season. Senior defender Erika Wisniewski and junior midfielder Alex McIntosh were both named to the All-PSAC Women’s Soccer Team. The teams are selected by the league’s head coaches and are based on overall statistics throughout the season. In addition, senior defender Hanna Marks was named to the Capital One Academic All-District Women’s Soccer Team. Marks was selected for her 3.98 GPA in mathematics and is one of the top studentathletes in the United States and Canada. Finally, the Griffin Athletic Association thanks the following seniors for their four years of devotion to Seton Hill athletics: Andrea Wisniewski, Erica Wisniewski, Cayla Walters and Jessica Walton.
Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
3
s k o o b e h t one for
4
The Seton Hill men’s soccer team finished one of its most successful seasons in University history with an overall record of 12-7-2, placing third overall in the PSAC. The team also made appearances in both the PSAC semifinals and ECAC tournament.
of the toughest men’s soccer conferences in the country, you need high-level players in order to be competitive and these guys bring that to our program. Having a good balance of American and international players on the team is vital to our success.”
The team’s roster included nine players from Great Britain and one from Scotland, who play a different style of soccer than in the United States. “The American game is more athletic and physical than the European game,” said head coach Dan McCarty. “We try to make our training sessions a bit more technical in nature, but we need to address the pressing game that many teams use. Playing in arguably one
Several members of the team received individual honors for their performance throughout the season. Forward Bovey Masiole and midfielder Joe Tchimou, both graduate students, sophomore defender Harrison Howes, and sophomore midfielder Joe Smith were named to the All-PSAC Men’s Soccer Team, which is determined by the league’s head coaches. Howes and Smith were also both named to the ECAC Division II Men’s Soccer All-Star teams. In addition to conference recognitions, Smith and Tchimou also received regional recognition by being named to the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) and the Continental Tire NCAA All-Atlantic Region Team.
m en ’s an d w om en ’s so cc er am on g th e el it e in th e cl as sr oo m Off the field, the Seton Hill men’s and women’s soccer teams both found academic success. The Griffins were awarded the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Team Academic Award for the 2013-14 academic year. This honor requires the entire team to hold a minimum GPA of 3.25 for the entire 2014 academic year. Out of 861 collegiate soccer teams, the Seton Hill soccer teams were one of the 195 schools that had both programs qualify for the award. Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
V is it se to n h il l. ed u / a th le ti cs fo r m or e g ri ff in n ew s fr om ou r a rc h iv es
The Griffin Athletic Association thanks the following seniors for their contributions and time to Seton Hill Athletics: Tyler Breth, Bovey Masiole, Joe Tchimou and Nick Cozad. Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
5
w om en ’s vo ll ey ba ll m ak es hi st or y The women’s volleyball team completed their most successful season in the history of the program this fall. Finishing second in the PSAC West after a close championship match with California University of Pennsylvania, the women set a new school record with a 32-6 overall record for the season.
second straight year. Maintaining a 3.81 GPA in biology, Gahagen is recognized for her hard work on the court and in the classroom.
In efforts to raise awareness for breast cancer, the Griffins hosted their annual Griffins Pink Match in October. Although the women recorded an important victory over California University of Pennsylvania, the meaning behind Under the leadership of Rick Hall the event was more significant. The during his 27th season with Seton large, cheering crowd dressed in Hill, the Griffins appeared in the pink was a great representation of NCAA Divison II Atlantic Regional playoffs for the second straight year. the Seton Hill community’s support of breast cancer awareness. This year, the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Finally, the Griffin recognized Coach Hall as the 2014 Athletic Association Atlantic Region Coach of the Year. would like to Coach Hall’s recognition follows a recognize seniors season during which the Griffins Courtney Field, advanced to the NCAA Division II Atlantic Regional Semifinals for the Corrine Gahagen, Jenna Snyder, and first time in school history. Larissa Santangelo Senior Corrine Gahagen and junior for their continuous hard work and Shelby Kyllo received several dedication to the awards and recognitions for their women’s volleyball performances throughout the program. Without 2014-15 season. Both middles each of their were named to the ECAC Division contributions to II Volleyball All-Star Teams, practices, games, Daktronics All-Atlantic Region and academics, Team, AVCA All-Region Team, this season may and were on the All-PSAC West not have been first team. In addition to her performance on the court, Gahagen possible! was also named to the Capital One Academic All-District Team for the 6
Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
al ex ol be te r be co m es th e ne w es t m em be r of th e m eN ’s so cc er te am What makes a good season? The men’s soccer team finished one of the most successful seasons in school history with a record of 12-7-2, placed third in the PSAC, and saw several awards and recognitions both on and off the field. A good season is hard to come by playing in such a competitive conference but every so often, a team is fortunate to experience a great season. What makes a great season? On September 16, the Griffins held a special ceremony to “sign” their newest player, Alex Olbeter. Alex is a 7-year-old boy who suffers from the genetic tumor disorder neurofibromatosis. Surrounded by his family, students, faculty, and staff, the team adopted Alex through Team IMPACT, a national program that pairs children with life-threatening illnesses with college athletic teams. The team participated in the program in hopes of improving Alex’s quality of life but his signing holds a special place in the players’ and coaches’ hearts. “Our guys, they see what he goes through every day. It gives them
some perspective, and they’re glad to be able to help,” said coach Dan McCarty. The team grew close to Alex throughout the season, spending time with him at practices, scrimmages, at dinner with Alex’s family, and even in the locker room where Alex has his own locker. “Alex comes and supports us, and we go and support him,” explained sophomore defenseman Jack Wardale. “The entire team loves Alex, and he loves being part of our team.” The Seton Hill community is grateful to participate in such an incredible experience with Alex and Team IMPACT. Alex continues the fight against neurofibromatosis with the full support of the team. “We hope we can provide him support and camaraderie as he fights for a healthy future,” said McCarty. Photo credit: Dave Miller
7
Griffin Athletic Association
April 21st . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Indiana University of Pennsylvania (DH) . . . . . . . . 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
April 17th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Edinboro University of Pennsylvania (DH) . . . . . . . 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
April 14th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. California University of Pennsylvania (DH) . . . . . . 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
April 11th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Slippery Rock University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 8th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Point Park University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3:30 p.m. & 5:30 p.m.
April 4th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Gannon University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 3rd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Mercyhurst University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
March 28th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown (DH) . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
March 20th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Clarion University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.
softball
April 24th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Mercyhurst University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 18th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Gannon University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 11th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Slippery Rock University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 7th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Shepherd University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
April 3rd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Clarion University (DH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
March 28th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Indiana University of Pennsylvania (DH) . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
March 20th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown (DH) . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
March 17th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Davis & Elkins College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30 p.m.
March 15th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. California University of Pennsylvania (DH) . . . . . . 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
baseball
April 10th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Edinboro University of Pennsylvania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
March 28th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Clarion University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:30 p.m.
March 21st . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Slippery Rock University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:30 p.m.
WoMen’s tennis
April 22nd . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. East Stroudsburg University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:00 p.m.
April 14th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Bloomsburg University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
Aptil 4th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Kutztown University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3:00 p.m.
April 1st . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Mercyhurst University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
March 28th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Lock Haven University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.
March 27th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Shippensburg University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
March 21st . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Gannon University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3:00 p.m.
March 1st . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Shepherd University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.
February 25th . . . . . . . . . . vs. Lake Erie College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
woMen’s lacrosse
April 4th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Alderson Broaddus University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12:00 p.m.
March 24th . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Walsh University (OH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m.
March 21st . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Mercyhurst University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12:00 p.m.
March 7th . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Pfeiffer University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.
February 28th . . . . . . . . . . vs. Mercy College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.
February 21st . . . . . . . . . . vs. Chestnut Hill College. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 p.m.
Men’s lacrosse
setonhill.edu/athletics
@SetonHillGAA
spring 2015-Home Schedule
GRIFFINS ATHLETICS
2 0 14 d o u g w o o d m e m o r ia l g o l f cl a ss ic se t s r e co r d A sellout crowd of 128 guests was not turned away by a little rain at the 2014 Doug Wood Memorial Golf Classic. In fact, they embraced the inclement weather and had a great time despite a 90-minute lightning delay. As the rain continued, guests were draining putts, celebrating and cheering as if the US Open were being played at Latrobe Country Club. With everyone’s tremendous support, we raised $49,850, more than doubling our revenue from 2013. These funds were used immediately for planned upgrades to our softball facility at Seton Hill and at Dick’s Sporting Goods Field. The Doug Wood Memorial Golf Classic is named in honor of Doug Wood, a former trustee of Seton Hill University, whose
10
vision assisted in the expansion of athletics at Seton Hill. Thank you to the Wood Family for allowing us to honor Doug’s legacy at this annual event. “Each year, this event continues to grow and we are proud to be a part of the Seton Hill Community that Doug cherished,” stated Dan Wood. The Seton Hill Athletic Department would like to thank our first-ever Title Sponsor, ProGrass, for their continuing support of this event and athletics. Also, thank you to all of our sponsors, golfers, dinner guests, donors and committee members who make this event a great success each year. The 2015 Doug Wood Memorial Golf Classic will be held Friday, June 12, 2015 at Arnold Palmer’s Latrobe County Club. We hope to see you there.
well as All-PSAC West Football Team honors, joining junior cornerback Philip Moreland. Williams set three new Seton Hill records with 15 receptions in one game against California University of Pennsylvania, 261 receiving yards against Mercyhurst University and 1,071 receiving yards for the season.
griffin football continues to grow
Led by second year head football coach Isaac Collins, the team welcomed several new faces to the coaching staff, including defensive coordinator Gerard Wilcher, wide receivers coach Rich Yahner, quarterbacks coach and pass game coordinator Christopher Haupt, running backs and tight ends coach For the second straight year, Gerry Pacitti, and linebackers coach senior linebacker Tyler Zimmer was named to the Capital One Aaron McGinty. Academic All-American Division The Griffins experienced significant II Team carrying a 3.80 GPA. Senior quarterback Drew Jackson improvement this season finishing participated in the 2014 DII/NAIA with a record of 3-8 in the most Challenge in Myrtle Beach, S.C. as competitive conference in the part of the Collegiate Development country. Their most impressive Football League (CDFL) and victory came during the final the National Scouting game of the season on Senior Showcase. This event Day at Offutt Field in Greensburg. includes some of the best The Griffins returned two punts DII and NAIA players for touchdowns and added two in the country. passing touchdowns and four rushing touchdowns to beat The Griffin Cheyney 56-18. Athletic Association The 2014 season also would like to saw several honors and thank the Class recognitions for many players. of 2015 for their Senior defensive lineman tremendous Arthur Tsapdong and junior efforts over the last wide receiver FJ Williams four years. They were named to the USA include Lance College Football Division Williams, Tyler Zimmer, II All-American Teams. Drew Jackson, Chase Tsapdong and Williams Parker, Arthur Tsapdong, also earned ECAC Adam Ward, Rafal Garcarz Division II Football and Casey Smith. Good luck in All-Star Team all your endeavors. selections as Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
11
str ide s in the rig ht dir ect ion The 2014 season was another step in the right direction for the women’s cross country team. The women began their season with a strong runner-up finish at home in the 12th Annual Griffin Classic. For the second time in three years, the women’s cross country team placed first in the Non-Division I team bracket at the National Catholic Championships at Notre Dame University. The team then placed 10th out of 38 teams at the Greater Louisville Classic in Kentucky. The women also found success later in the season at the Carnegie Mellon Invitational at Schenley Park in Pittsburgh with a second place finish, just one point out of first place. Meagan Carter finished in first place overall with a time of 18:25, Leah Schott finished third with a time of 18:43 and Chelsie Poole finished in sixth place with a time of 19:01. 12
The team also participated in the ECAC Division II Cross Country Championships at Lamb’s Creek Cross Country Course. Strong finishes from Carter and Poole helped the Griffins to a third place finish. The women ended their season with an eighth place finish at the PSAC Championships. “After looking back on the season, our women’s cross country team once again continued the strong running tradition past teams have set before them by accomplishing many of their team and individual goals and again being one of the top teams in the Atlantic Region. I am excited about the 2015 season, which looks promising with five of the top seven women’s runners returning and another strong recruiting class,” said Coach Tim Creamer. The Griffin men opened up the season placing third in the 12th annual SHU Griffin Classic on campus. The men’s team also ran the 125th Slippery Rock Invitational. Led by junior Steve Lafferty’s 22nd place finish, the team finished fourth overall. The men also competed in the Greater Louisville Classic, finishing 19th out of 42 teams. Although the season was complicated by injuries throughout the fall, the men’s cross country team finished 14th in the PSAC Championships at Mansfield University’s Lamb Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
Creek Cross Country Course. “Our men’s cross country team, despite being young and inexperienced, showed signs of growth and development, which will be valuable in the 2015 season. I was proud of their effort and work ethic during the season,” Creamer said.
until early March when the outdoor season begins. The Griffin Athletic Association would like to thank these seniors for their dedication and efforts over the last four years: Mary Janak, Leah Schott, Riley Giaquinto, Carl Koehler and Christopher LaCava.
Both the men and women continue their training for the indoor track and field season, which began in early December and will continue
eq ue st ri an ri di ng to th e to p First-year equestrian head coach Becki Bloom has a lifelong passion for horses. “I honestly don’t remember the first time I was on a horse. It is just something that I always knew,” said Bloom, a native of Ebensburg, Pa. For over 20 years her coaching expertise has led many teams and individual riders across the United States to national championships. She has the same goal for the Seton Hill equestrian team. With a new coach, the Griffins plan to show their talent at the national horse show at the end of the season in Massachusetts. Currently standing in second place behind West Virginia University, the Lady Griffins’ first goal is to take the entire team to the Zone Championships. “It would be amazing to take a whole team to zones let alone just individual
women,” said Taylor Jansen, current graduate assistant for the Seton Hill equestrian team. “These women have been working so hard this season, and having Becki as a coach has proven to be successful for the team this past fall.” There are currently six women qualified for the regional championship show, which will be held at West Virginia University in March. The Griffins have three horse shows to win the conference, and the lady Griffins are confident in their ability to do so.
Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
13
bi ll mo ns tr ol a we lc om ed as th e ne w sk ipp er fo r so ft ba ll Seton Hill softball welcomed a familiar face to the program on July 1, 2014. Former volunteer coach Bill Monstrola (2005-07) will now be leading the program into its second season of PSAC play. “I am honored to be named the new head softball coach at Seton Hill University. My goal as head coach is to ensure our players are successful in the classroom to prepare them for their chosen profession upon graduation and for them to have great memories of their softball career at the University,” said Monstrola. Monstrola has spent the last four seasons on the other side of town at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg. He led the Bobcats to a record of 19-18 and a berth into the Allegheny Mountain College Conference (AMCC) Tournament and had five players earn AMCC AllConference honors. The Seton Hill community and the Griffin Athletic Association welcome Coach Monstrola to the Hill. Best of luck this season! 14
Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
women’s g olf sees a promisin g future The Seton Hill women’s golf team finished fifth in the PSAC Championships held at Hershey Country Club to end their season. Led by a ninth place tie by sophomore Emily Hassey and freshman Courtney Newport, the women finished with a score of 660 after the two-day event. A highlight of the season was the Griffins’ first place finish at the Sally Carroll Open held at Hannastown Golf Club. With a total score of 633, the team was led by Courtney Newport’s second place overall finish with a score of 156, freshman Gabrielle Gutierrez’s tie for third place and score of 159, senior Ashley Ward’s score of 160 for a fifth place finish, senior Morgan Miller’s seventh place finish with her score of 164, and sophomore Emily Hassey with a score of 166 for eighth place. Photo credit: Jason Greene
prog rass spon sors a pass , punt and kick chal leng e for a chan ce at $$10,0 00 During a cold and windy football game against Mercyhurst University, the Griffin fans were given an opportunity to participate in a Pass, Punt and Kick Challenge sponsored by ProGrass for a chance to win $10,000. Five lucky fans were randomly selected to
participate in the Challenge. The final participant completed all three challenges but unfortunately missed the field goal and the $10,000 prize. A special thank you to ProGrass for their sponsorship of the event and continuing support of Seton Hill Athletics.
15
GAANLSP15 724-834-2200 1-800-826-6234 @SetonHillGAA Griffin Athletic Association
Signature (required): p I do not wish to receive any benefits, my gift is 100% tax-deductible. p Please keep my gift anonymous.
Email:
Expiration Date:
Card Number:
p p p Phone:
Name(s):
setonhill.edu/athletics
Credit Card City, State, Zip:
p
Checks Make checks payable to: Seton Hill University Address:
Corporate Partnerships p Please contact me regarding Corporate Partnership Opportunities. pS pS
pM pM
pL pL
p XL p XL
p XXL p XXL
p XXXL p XXXL
Matching Gift p I have enclosed my (and/or my spouse’s) employer matching gift form(s).
p Griffin Platinum Club ($500+) p Griffin Silver Club ($100+) p Alumni/Friend Club ($25+)
p Faculty/Staff
p Other:
Gift Designation Please designate my gift to: p Sport:
p Griffin Diamond Club ($1,000+) p Griffin Gold Club ($200+) p Griffin Bronze Club ($50+)
Shirt Size(s): p Men’s p Women’s
Photo credit: Dymphena Clark
Membership Levels (please select one)
16
p Parent
In the classroom, the Griffins held a 3.3 cumulative grade point average. Three players earned a 4.0 GPA, and six held a GPA of 3.5 or higher. The team will be honored with the National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) National Field Hockey Team Award,
p Friend
Even though the team fell short in the “wins” column, they never lacked heart and effort. The young Griffins played several overtime games. The team’s two freshman goalies earned valuable experience, which will help set the stage for the 2015 season. Even though the wins and losses did not showcase the Griffins’ talent level, it clearly built the foundation and defined the growth to lead the women to future success.
p Alumni
which is awarded to teams with a 3.0 GPA or higher. Ten Griffins will be recognized by the National Academic Squad for receiving a 3.3 or higher through the NFHCA. This spring will be very beneficial as the Griffins look to become more successful all around in their offseason training.
JOIN THE GRIFFIN ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION TODAY!
The 2014 season for the Seton Hill Field Hockey team marked the start of a rebuilding cycle. After graduating six seniors, the Griffins opened preseason camp with a very young team of two juniors, nine sophomores and 10 freshmen. The team had to start from the beginning learning names, positions, playing styles and the intensity of Division II PSAC field hockey, which is home to many of the top programs in the country.
p General Athletics
y field hocke r o f c i t s i m i t op n g i a p m a c 5 1 20
Seton Hill Drive Greensburg, PA 15601-1599
GREENSBURG, PA PERMIT NO. 384
PAID
U.S .POSTAGE
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION
