Athletes honored for achievements on the field, in the classroom
Photos by Lee Ferris
Just days before Commencement, the Mount’s Athletics department celebrated the amazing work, both on and off the field, of its student-athletes, coaches, and staff.
The evening kicked off with opening remarks from Shane Bell, director of Athletics, and Fr. Greg Fluet, Interim President of the Mount. They shared their appreciation for being part of the Knight family and recounted memories from the year.
Jayden Racca of New Fairfield, Conn., (Men’s Basketball) and Sophia Reed of Dover, N.J., (Softball) were named Scholar-Athletes of the Year. This award recognizes outstanding work both in the classroom and on the field.
Kyan Muendell of Yorktown Heights, N.Y., (Track and Field) and Delisianna Naccarato of Kingston, N.Y., (Women’s Lacrosse) were named Rookies of the Year. This award recognizes outstanding first-year players who made an immediate impact on their programs.
Christopher Christiano of Waterbury, Conn., (Cross Country and Track) and Olivia Ferara of Middletown, N.Y., (Softball) were named Seniors of the Year. This honor is given to four-year members who made an impact on their team and in the classroom.
Adam Leone of Wallingford, Conn., (Baseball) and Riley Norwood of East Haven, Conn., (Softball) were named Knights of the Year. This award recognizes student-athletes who embody the traditions and pillars of the college, representing their teams well and making a difference in the community.
Kenny Leen of Miller Place, N.Y., (Men’s Lacrosse) and Grace MacDonald of Concord, N.H., (Softball) were named Athlete of the Year. This award recognizes the student-athletes who are difference-makers: the ones their teams couldn’t function without.
Emily Gursky of Oakville, Conn., (Swimming) and Liz Petrellese of Levittown, N.Y., (Women’s Lacrosse) were named Student Workers of the Year. This award recognizes student-athletes who went above and beyond to help the department, working at games and supporting their teams.
A special award was given to Fr. Fluet – The Father Gregoire Fluet Award – to commemorate “the biggest athletic supporter on campus…He's a tireless supporter of student-athletes both on and off the field.”
In addition, more than 20 students were inducted into Chi Alpha Sigma Honor Society. The National Student-Athlete Honor Society’s Alpha Pi Chapter was established at the Mount in March 2020.
