With the longer days and warmer weather that accompany the spring season, the idea of moving onto the next chapter of life surrounds many college students around the same time. As the men’s lacrosse seniors embark on their final shot at a championship in blue and white, the inescapable nostalgia finds a spot in some of the player’s minds.

 

Chris Bova, Weston Nolan, Campbell Gillis, Isaiah Washington, Danny Reale, Joseph Elia and Shawn Errasti will all be walking across the stage at Commencement on May 18. This senior class of players has punched a ticket to the CCC tournament each year they have played at RWU.

 

“My greatest memory throughout my career is still to come,” said Nolan, referring to the opportunity to take home the CCC championship. “It’s a challenge to put a finger on one point in time over four years that stands out, though being a part of something bigger than myself with guys that I truly admire has been a memory.”  

 

This seniors’ selfless attitudes have been recognized by Coach Marty Kelly especially. When speaking about the group of seniors, Kelly said “they have a willingness to put the team in front of themselves,” which speaks to their abilities to listen to each other.

 

Kelly partly attributes this to the makeup of the team. The class arrived at RWU ready to play for the team during freshman year and have continued to develop their chemistry since.

 

“They have taught me how to listen a bit more,” said Kelly. 

 

The team is organized into “pods,” which has been a helpful tool in getting players to feel empowered and gain leadership opportunities. 

 

“That has trickled up to me,” said Kelly.

The leadership skills that the program aims to build have definitely been noticed by seniors.

 

“Being on a sports team has always pushed me to plan ahead,” said Nolan. “Sports and school have no sympathy for procrastination from what I’ve learned, and I am doubtful that the real world will be any different.”

As for post graduation plans, Nolan, an American studies major, explained they are still in the works. 

 

“My plans for life after graduation are still in the making. I’m more so excited than stressed about it,” he said.

 

One thing Nolan is certain of is that he wants to travel. 

 

“I’ve realized that this will be one of the few times in my life that I have freedom to go on such a journey and learn more about myself and the world, so why not take advantage,” he said. “What is to come after, I simply do not know, but I am certainly looking forward to the ride ahead.”