Five Minutes With ... Jon Cripe

DePauw senior Cross Country and Track & Field student-athlete Jon Cripe

Name: Jon Cripe

Hometown/High School: Belleville, IL/Belleville West

Institution: DePauw University

Majors: Physics and Math

Sports: Cross Country and Track & Field

I am originally from ... Belleville, IL, which is near St Louis.

Why did you choose to attend a NCAA Division III institution? I wanted to go to a school with good academics and have the opportunity to be involved in multiple activities. In addition to athletics, I am involved in music, a resident assistant (RA) and president of our SAAC.

How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III? Being a student first but still having the opportunity to compete and excel in athletics.

How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at DePauw? I actually think having the structure of daily practice helps my academics. I have improved my time management skills and know how to prioritize the things I need to get done. Also, exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle.

How would you best describe your normal day as a student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level? I.e. What do you do all day? Wake up and go to class during the day. In between classes I get as much homework done as possible. Practice is from 4-7ish. Then I make dinner and start on my homework again. A few days a week I do supplementary training like lifting, core, bike, etc, so I have to fit that into my schedule too. I also have a few meetings each week for the clubs that I am involved in that I need to attend.

Favorite thing about DePauw? The people

Favorite thing about the NCAC? The competition, friendly nature and professionalism of the student athletes.

What do you want to be when you grow up? Not entirely sure yet. Next year I will be in Germany doing physics research at the Albert Einstein Institute. Then I return to the states and continue graduate school for my PhD in physics. I will be a professor one day, but not sure at what point in my life.

What has been your most memorable moment in athletics during your collegiate career? Making the regional cross country team this year after battling Achilles injuries for the past two years. There were a lot of days when it hurt a lot, and I would ask myself if it was worth it or not. I wasn’t able to train as much as I wanted to. It was really hard knowing that an injury was keeping me from reaching my potential. I had to change my training to be able to continue running, and it paid off in the end!

What would be your advice for someone that is considering enrolling as a student-athlete at a NCAA Div. III institution? Do it!

Are there any major obstacles that you’ve had to overcome when as a Div. III student-athlete? Just like any other activity, if you want to be good in athletics you have to sacrifice other things. I could not be in the band or orchestra or other clubs that I might have joined. You also have to give up part of your social life. But if I had to do it again I would still be a student-athlete. The memories last forever.

What's the most impressive meal you've ever cooked? I’m not sure what my single most impressive meal is, but I cook all of my own food, and I would say it’s all pretty good. So I tend to invite people on the team or other friends over for dinner a lot.

What’s your favorite sports team? St Louis Cardinals!

First job? Working on an orchard during the summers of high school. My friend and I worked in the fields all day. It was hot, but a lot of fun.

Best/worst summer job? Physics Research assistant

Five Minutes With ... Michael La Londe

Hiram junior baseball player Michael La Londe

Name: Michael La Londe

Hometown/High School: Willowick, OH/ Willoughby South

Institution: Hiram College

Major: Management   

Minor: Entrepreneurship

Sport: Baseball


•    I am originally from ... Willowick, Ohio

•    Why did you choose to attend an NCAA Division III institution? Better Education

•    How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III? I get the best of both worlds. I get a great education and I get to keep playing the sport that I love

•    How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at Hiram? Its been easy for the most part. My coach understand that school comes first so if there is ever a conflict with both, my coach would rather have me go to class

•    How would you best describe your normal day as a student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level? I.e. What do you do all day? Very busy ... Wake up early, go to class, lunch, go to class again, hit the gym, practice, gym again, eat, then go to a meeting for something, homework, then bed

•    Favorite thing about Hiram? The community, it’s a very small school but everyone is friendly and I know everyone

•    Favorite thing about the NCAC? The competitiveness

•    What do you want to be when you grow up? I would love to go pro, if that doesn’t work I would still like to do something in baseball, so either try to get a job with the Indians, or hopefully open up my own baseball institution.

•    What has been your most memorable moment in athletics during your collegiate career? Getting the Ace spot in the pitching staff as a sophmore

•    What’s currently playing on your I-Pod? The Thrill - Wiz Khalifa

•    In your opinion, what is the most important life lesson you learned while competing at the NCAA Div. III level? Don’t ever give up

•    Are there any major obstacles that you’ve had to overcome when as a Div. III student-athlete? Yes, I have taken on many clubs here, so I have to manage all of those, plus baseball, plus my school work. It’s very overwhelming but it pays off in the end

•    What are the toughest issues facing Div. III athletes today?  Having to face different players every year because you don’t know anything about that player so you don’t know the best tactic against them

•    Who do you look up to? My parents, they have always been a big inspiration to me and have taught me to never give up

•    What is the meaning of life? Baseball

•    if you could excel at any competitive sport (other than your own) which would you choose? Probably football

•    Which historical sporting event would you have liked to witness? Derek Jeter getting his 3,000th hit.

•    What’s your favorite sports team/Who’s your favorite athlete? Cleveland Indians and probably Omar Vizquel

•    My favorite sports memory is…? Winning a baseball tournament out in West Virgina with my old summer ball team

•    Any Pet Peeves? People who try to sing lyrics to the song, but only know two words to the song

•    Favorite hobbies outside work/school? Sleeping

•    First job? I worked at a pizza shop

•    Best/worst summer job? Working at that pizza shop

Five Minutes With ... Seri Retrum

DePauw sophomore cross country and track & field runner Siri Retrum

Name: Siri Retrum

Hometown/High School: Columbus, IN/ Columbus North

Institution: DePauw University

Major: Kinesiology

Sports: Cross Country and Track and Field


•    I am originally from ... Anderson, IN

•    Why did you choose to attend a NCAA Division III institution? I was looking for a school with a competitive sports program and challenging academics.

•    How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III? Being able to excel as a collegiate athlete while pursuing high academic goals.

•    How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at DePauw? Having practice nearly everyday of the year keeps me on a strict schedule. Fitting in running, lifting, classes and studying makes my schedule very regimented which helps me manage my time to accomplish everything.

•    How would you best describe your normal day as a student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level? I.e. What do you do all day? Depending on the day I wake up at 7 a.m. and run a few miles, shower and go to class. After lunch I will go lift before I go to the rest of my classes. Then at 4 pm I go to practice until 6 pm. After dinner I will study until I get my work done then I go to bed.

•    Favorite thing about DePauw? The close- knit nature of campus. Walking to classes it is common to see at least 10 people I know that I can say hi to.

•    Favorite thing about the NCAC? The friendly and competitive spirit at all sporting events.

•    What do you want to be when you grow up? A nurse

•    People may be surprised to know that …… My name is Norwegian.

•    What’s currently playing on your I-Pod? Keith Urban

•    Who do you look up to? My sister Becky, she started her own business by herself.

•    if you could excel at any competitive sport (other than your own) which would you choose? Triathlons

•    What's the most impressive meal you've ever cooked? Grilled salmon, roasted rosemary sweet potatoes, salad, and grilled asparagus

•    What’s your favorite sports team? The Colts

•    Favorite hobbies outside work/school? Cooking, spending time with family and friends, biking, swimming, reading, and playing on the lake

•    First job? Life guard

•    Favorite ice cream? I love all ice cream!!

Five Minutes With ... Kevin Snyder

Allegheny sophomore tennis player Kevin Snyder

Name: Kevin Snyder

Hometown/High School: Medina, NY/Medina

Institution: Allegheny College

Majors: Political Science and Communication Arts

Sport: Tennis


•    I am originally from ... Medina, NY. It’s a really small town on the Erie Canal in between Buffalo and Rochester.

•    Why did you choose to attend a NCAA Division III institution? The chance to play tennis while getting a great education was an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up. I really valued the small campus at Allegheny as well.

•    How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III? Division III is all about playing for the name on the front of our jerseys. We play our sports because we love practicing and competing, and we also do it because our school, teammates, and friends are important to us. We also realize that academics are our top priority while at college and we treat it as such.

•    How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics Allegheny? It’s not easy, but it is doable. Allegheny is a tough school and in order to do well in the classroom and on the field I’ve had to really maximize my time when I am free, even if that means taking less naps! The professors at Allegheny are supportive of the student-athletes and when I do have to miss class for matches, they understand, but I still have to get the work done.

•    How would you best describe your normal day as a student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level? I.e. What do you do all day? I usually wake up, get some breakfast, and then head to class. After class I work at my work study job in our Office of Student Involvement. After that I either get some homework done or get some extra practice in with my coaches before our team practice. After practice, we usually get dinner as a team and then I head to the library to finish up my homework. Then I repeat.

•    Favorite thing about Allegheny? The greatest thing about Allegheny by far is our community. That is something that set it apart from other schools for me. It’s special and when we say “We Are Allegheny,” we mean it. We are one big community and we support each other in the things that we do.

•    Favorite thing about the NCAC? The competition of the conference is awesome. Being able to go up against some of the top tennis teams in the country is challenging but great at the same time. We are definitely one of the best tennis conferences in the nation.

•    What do you want to be when you grow up? I’d love to work in Marketing and Public Relations. But I wouldn’t pass up a job in college sports.

•    If you could trade places with someone for a day, who would it be and why? Jay Carney, he is the White House Press Secretary. I’ve always loved that job and if I was to go into politics, it would be my dream to do that.

•    People may be surprised to know that ……All the names in my family start with the letter K. Even our pets.

•    What’s currently playing on your I-Pod? “Mind Your Manners” by Chiddy Bang

•    Do you have one coach and/or professor that has impacted your career the most at Allegheny? Jared Luteran, my Head Coach has definitely impacted me. He has taught me a lot about not just tennis but attention to details in life, which is something that I will use forever. He’s also helped me establish a good work ethic on the court and in the classroom. As far as Professors, Jim Bulman in our English department was my first experience with a college professor, and he was fantastic. He taught me what Allegheny was really about and how to make the most out of my time here. He was my advisor for my first year and a half, and the advice he gave me was gold.


•    What would be your advice for someone that is considering enrolling as a student-athlete at a NCAA Div. III institution? Do it. It’s the best possible decision you could make. I’ve made lifelong friends on my team, developed great habits, and am doing something that I love to do. There isn’t much that beats competing for your school. I could not see myself not being a student-athlete.

•    Who do you look up to? My Dad. He is one of the wisest people that I know.

•    if you could excel at any competitive sport (other than your own) which would you choose? I’ve always wanted to play volleyball. I’ve always had fun playing it.

•    Which historical sporting event would you have liked to witness? The 1993 Wild Card Playoff game between the Bills and the Oilers. You can’t beat great comebacks.

•    What’s your favorite sports team/Who’s your favorite athlete? The Buffalo Bills are my favorite team, and my favorite athlete is Sam Querrey.

•    My favorite sports memory is…? Playing at the National Tennis Center in New York City.


•    Favorite ice cream? Chocolate Panda Paws.

Five Minutes With ... Molly Goolman

Kenyon College sophomore softball player Molly Goolman

Name: Molly Goolman

Hometown/High School: Lancaster, NH/St. Johnsbury Academy (VT)

Institution: Kenyon College           

Majors: Biology and History

Sport: Softball

·       I am originally from … Lancaster, NH

·       Why did you choose to attend a NCAA Division III institution? The ability to play sports while studying at a top-tier school drew me to Division III immediately. I can’t imagine college without sports.

·       How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III? Division III allows students to use sports to prepare them for life after college, in addition to the benefits gained from the classroom. The nature of Division III athletics invites students to apply lessons learned on the field or court to situations that follow graduation.

·       How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at Kenyon? Kenyon is an extremely strong academic setting, but I find my time management skills to be much better when I’m in-season than when I’m out of season. It helps that many of the professors here are some of our biggest fans!

·       How would you best describe your normal day as a student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level? I.e. What do you do all day? It’s pretty simple: Class, practice, homework. It sounds monotonous, but the fact that I’m surrounded by friends and fellow student-athletes all day makes it easier.

·       Favorite thing about Kenyon? The best part about Kenyon is that it’s full of Ivy League-caliber students who don’t need the label of a more widely known institution. It also happens to be one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

·       Favorite thing about the NCAC? It’s small, so you really get to know the teams and even the individual athletes you compete against.

·       What do you want to be when you grow up? A patent lawyer for a pharmaceutical company

·       If you could trade places with someone for a day, who would it be and why? Kate Middleton. Who doesn’t want to be a princess for a day?

·       People may be surprised to know that ……I’m a black belt in Shotokan karate.

·       If you are stranded on an island, you would like to be with ……My mom. We could make each other laugh the entire time.

·       Do you have any hidden talents that very few people know about? I’m a pretty decent welder.

·       Do you have one coach and/or professor that has impacted your career the most at Kenyon? Biology professor Kathy Gillen. She’s always around to help me make decisions, or at least listen to me argue with myself about them, whether it’s about school or sports or life in general. Once I make up my mind, she’s always really supportive. She’s even made it to a few softball games!

·       if you could be a superhero which special power would you choose to have? The ability to zap myself anywhere whenever I want.

·       Which historical sporting event would you have liked to witness? The New York Mets beating the Boston Red Sox in Game 6 of the 1986 World Series. Bottom of the tenth with one strike left? That’s why we play sports.

·       What’s your favorite sports team/Who’s your favorite athlete? The Minnesota Vikings. Being a Vikings fan is a lot like breaking up with your boyfriend every week for 16 weeks, but when they pull out a win I smile all week long.

·       Any Pet Peeves? When cars don’t stop for people waiting at crosswalks. That’s just rude.

·       Favorite ice cream? Rocky Road

Five Minutes With ... Robert Wolf

Kenyon senior track & field student-athlete Robert Wolf

Name: Robert Wolf

Hometown/High School: Cleveland, OH/ St. Ignatius

Institution: Kenyon College

Major: Biology

Sport(s): Indoor/Outdoor Track and Field

I am originally from ... Cleveland, OH

Why did you choose to attend a NCAA Division III institution? I chose to come to Kenyon because of the high academic standards demanded by the institution.

|How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III? People who choose DIII schools seem to participate in athletics because they want to as opposed to fulfilling a scholarship. It is based only on the enjoyment that student-athletes derive from working hard and trying their best.

How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at Kenyon? Kenyon is a very demanding school and at times it has been extremely challenging academically. However, our coaches know what is expected of us academically and therefore are very lenient when we need more time. They always stress that academics come first.

How would you best describe your normal day as a student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level? Class in the morning, homework and studying until practice, and homework after practice.

Favorite thing about Kenyon? The availability of professors to help their students. And, the close-knit community between students, faculty, and alumni.

Favorite thing about the NCAC? The fact that all schools are equally competitive in the conference.

What do you want to be when you grow up? Special agent for the FBI.

If you could trade places with someone for a day, who would it be and why? LeBron James. He is the most gifted athlete in the world.

If you are stranded on an island, you would like to be with …… Object: Bible ... Person: my little brother

What aspect of being a student-athlete at the Div. III level, do you hope to take with you into your professional life? The work ethic that goes into both my academics and athletics.

What has been your most memorable moment in athletics during your collegiate career? Breaking the Kenyon College 4x200 record at the conference meet and being named All- Conference.

What would you like to accomplish, both in academics and athletics, before you graduate? Some school records are attainable for my team this year. I want to help get them as close as possible to breaking some of those records.

What’s currently playing on your I-Pod? The Beatles “Hey Jude”

Do you have one coach and/or professor that has impacted your career the most at Kenyon? Coach Craig First

What is your most prized possession? My iPhone 3GS. I know there are better models, but my phone is the best. No question. 

In your opinion, what is the most important life lesson you learned while competing at the NCAA Div. III level? First, a team that will stick together through thick and thin is the best team you can be on. If you want something bad enough, go and get it.

Who do you look up to in life? My father

If you could be a superhero which special power would you choose to have? All of Spiderman’s powers

If you could excel at any competitive sport (other than your own) which would you choose? Basketball

Which historical sporting event would you have liked to witness? Michael Jordan’s first title.

What's the most impressive meal you've ever cooked? Toast

What’s your favorite sports team/Who’s your favorite athlete? St. Ignatius Wildcats/ LeBron James

My favorite sports memory is…? My high school 4x800 relay team at St. Ignatius.

Any Pet Peeves? People invading my personal space.

Five Minutes With ... Kevin McCarthy

Wabash senior Cross Country and Track & Field runner Kevin McCarthy

Name:    Kevin McCarthy

Hometown/High School:     Zionsville, IN/Zionsville

Institution:    Wabash College

Major:    Biology

Minors:    Spanish & Chemistry


Sports: Cross Country & Track and Field

I am originally from ... Indianapolis

Why did you choose to attend a NCAA Division III institution? My decisions on choosing a college were based first upon academic reputation and rigor in preparing myself for medical school. Wabash fit all those requirements; the small school feel was what I wanted, with close faculty attention. Running has been an added bonus.

How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III? Athletics are part of the great balancing act that we as students juggle, and in Div III, the men and women who perform in these sports, despite being only participatory, at such a high level are motivated purely by the desire and the love of the game. Div III is athletics in perspective; it is the division of opportunity for one and all. In my mind, this makes it the best division because its focus is where it should be for most of us – as a supplement for our maturation and education.

How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at Wabash? I have rarely have problems balancing athletics and academics at Wabash. All classes are done by 4. Practice starts at 4:20, so right off the bat, there are reduced scheduling conflicts. If anything, athletics have kept me on the ball with my academics, because I am forced to have solid time management to succeed at both. Which I feel I have done decently.

How would you best describe your normal day as a student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level? I.e. What do you do all day? Wake up early (6:30ish) to workout a little, have breakfast, then travel through a busy schedule of meetings (academic and non-academic; because at a small school, the opportunities for extra-curricular involvement and leadership are immense), classes, lunch and time to study. I am Head Resident Assistant, so I usually check my dormitory and my residents. I usually take a brief nap before practice. Head over to practice at about 4. Practice from 4:20 to usually 6:30 or so. Have dinner, and then from the time I finish dinner to the time I go to bed, which is around 11:30 or so, I will be studying or doing homework, with the occasional other few meetings.

Favorite thing about Wabash? The fact that Wabash is all-male. Its unique, it fosters a different culture here than any other school I have visited, and allows us to tailoring specifically to the maturation of average boys into exceptional young men. That I feel this college performs very well. 

Favorite thing about the NCAC? That Depauw joined this past year. I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the strength of this conference grow in distance running over the past couple years, especially up top. Adding Depauw, the enemies from the South, as much as I like competing against them, have added good competition to the mix.

What do you want to be when you grow up? I plan on becoming a doctor in primary medicine, working both abroad and in rural America.

If you could trade places with someone for a day, who would it be and why? Paul Farmer. He is an incredible doctor and founder of Partners in Health who is leading the charge in global health in many countries, including Haiti. I would like to see what the man thinks, what he does, his work saving the world.

People may be surprised to know that ... I would rather be farming right now.

If you are stranded on an island, you would like to be with … Les Stroud – survivalist and star in the show Survivorman.

What is the life of a student-athlete studying Biology like at Wabash? It’s a lot of work studying biology/pre-medicine and running at a high level. But so far, everything has been totally worth it.

What aspect of being a student-athlete at the Div. III level, do you hope to take with you into your professional life? The confidence that it has given me and maturation it has fostered in life.

What has been your most memorable moment in athletics during your collegiate career? Just recently, finally getting my XC All-American, 6th in the nation in DIII, just like my coach 15 years ago.

What would you like to accomplish, both in academics and athletics, before you graduate? In academics – pass my comprehensive exams and be home clear for medical school. In athletics – to be a national champ.

What’s currently playing on your I-Pod? I’m old school – I have an MP3

Do you have one coach and/or professor that has impacted your career the most at Wabash? Coach Roger Busch. The man has invested a lot in me and my future. I am forever indebted to him. 

What is your most prized possession? My family

In your opinion, what is the most important life lesson you learned while competing at the NCAA Div. III level? The limits of the human body are dictated by the limits placed in the mind. The body will follow wherever the mind goes.

How many hours a week do you spend on Facebook? One hour. Tops. Don’t waste your time, America.

What would be your advice for someone that is considering enrolling as a student-athlete at a NCAA Div. III institution? Do it. And make sure that you stick it out in athletics. Find a good institution first, and make sure there is a program there that has a good track record for making students successful in athletics as well.

If you could be NCAC Commissioner for a day, what's the first thing you'd do? Petition for the 3000 meter race for Indoor Nationals. I think it is a huge jump for distance runners to compete in only 2 distance events indoors: the 1600m and the 5k. It does a disservice for many distance runners.

If you could excel at any competitive sport (other than your own) which would you choose? Soccer

What's the most impressive meal you've ever cooked? HaHa! I wish I could cook. I make good fried eggs.

If you were the president of NCAA Division III for a day, what's the first thing you'd do? Make sure that DIII Track standards stay time based – i.e. not heed to proposal to take only the top 16 individuals in each event and removing Auto and Provo marks. By removing the goal of auto-mark not only is there a loss of a focused goal for the athletes, but it places more stress on the athletes and coaches approaching championship season because one does not know whether the athlete will qualify until the Sunday before the championship. It does not reward fast times early, and will force athletes to compete the week before the meet, fighting for a fast times, when that can all be avoided by keeping the current system. If something isn’t broken – don’t fix it.

Five Minutes With ... Travis Wall

Ohio Wesleyan senior men's soccer player Travis Wall

Name: Travis Wall

Hometown/High School: Columbus, OH/Upper Arlington

Institution: Ohio Wesleyan University

Major: Sports Management

Sport: Soccer

I am originally from ... Columbus, Ohio

Why did you choose to attend a NCAA Division III institution?

I chose to attend OWU because I knew that a Division III experience offered up the best combination of academics and athletics than any other school I could have found. Also, playing for Jay Martin was a huge factor in coming here.

How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III?

I think the philosophy is academics first with athletics a very close second. If there is a conflict though, academics always come first and I think that is an important message to get across.

How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at (your school)?

My experience has been great. When we have to miss classes for games, the professors have always been very accommodating and worked with me to help make up the work or notes I missed.

How would you best describe your normal day as a student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level? I.e. What do you do all day?

I wake up at 8 a.m. to get ready for my 9 a.m. class. I go to two of my classes, then go to lunch with the soccer team. After lunch I go to my last class at 1 p.m. Following that I will hang out in the coaches office with other members of the team or I will head home to try and catch a quick nap before our 4 p.m. practices that we have every day.

Favorite thing about Ohio Wesleyan?

Playing soccer for Jay Martin and the academic reputation that comes attached with a degree from Ohio Wesleyan.

Favorite thing about the NCAC?

The competitiveness of it

What do you want to be when you grow up?

I would like to be a college athletic director or a college head soccer coach.

If you could trade places with someone for a day, who would it be and why?

I would love to be Larry David for a day. Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm are my two all time favorite shows and Larry David is the comedic genius behind each one. I think his outlook on everyday awkward situations is hilarious, I often times find myself telling somebody that “that was a Larry David moment” or “I’ve seen this in Seinfeld” because he covers just about all there is to cover in everyday occurrences.

People may be surprised to know that …

My mom went to Denison. I am the youngest of three children and we all chose Ohio Wesleyan to go to school and play soccer. My mom has been pretty happy cheering us on over the years though.

If you are stranded on an island, you would like to be with …

Natalie Portman. I think she is the best looking woman on this planet.

What is the life of a student-athlete studying sports management like at Ohio Wesleyan?

The life of a sports management major at OWU is an interesting one. You get a really nice mix of taking business classes like accounting, economics, marketing management, etc., that cause you to think about the financial aspect of sport but we also get to take classes dedicated solely to the sports industry and the mental and philosophical approach to athletics which I particularly enjoyed wanting to head in the direction of coaching. Our professors encourage us to get hands on experience before entering the real world so next semester I am scheduled for two internships, one with the Columbus Crew and one with a local soccer club and I am really looking forward to those.

Do you have any hidden talents that very few people know about?

I can quote movies and TV shows better than most people. My friends and I at OWU consistently relate every day happenings to movies we have seen and try to quote those movies.

I also have an annoyingly bad habit of remembering the slightest details about any team we have ever player. Whether it be an opponent’s stats, the cleats he wore, his hometown, his number….you name it I most likely have it memorized.

What aspect of being a student-athlete at the Div. III level, do you hope to take with you into your professional life?

I think playing at a Division III level has taught me to prioritize. In life, my working career will come before any athletic interest I will have and I think going to OWU has just helped reinforce that.

What has been your most memorable moment in athletics during your collegiate career?

Although it just happened, I will never forget this years comeback against Ohio Northern in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament and the goal I scored to win the game. Jay told us after the game that he has never coached a team who has been down 2-0 in and NCAA game and come back to win which made us feel special. But to be down 2-0 with 20 minutes left in the game, most teams would start to panic and get out of their style but we did the opposite, we began to assert ourselves more and the goals finally started coming. I will never forget that game.

What would you like to accomplish, both in academics and athletics, before you graduate?

I would like to graduate with a cumulative GPA of above 3.2. I am currently at a 3.19 so I am close. In athletics, before it was to make a final 4, now that we have done that, I think it would be great to win the whole thing!

What’s currently playing on your I-Pod?

Drake’s new Take Care album

Do you have one coach and/or professor that has impacted your career the most at Ohio Wesleyan?

Jay Martin. It doesn’t get much better than playing for him. OWU has been spoiled to have him here for 35 years. Our assistant Brandon Bianco is a close second. He was a first year coach my freshman year and in 4 years, he has turned into a great coach. I’m sure he will be an ever better head coach in a few years wherever that may be. The best thing about our coaching staff is that they never stop trying to get better. It would be easy for people in their position to sit back and be content with their careers and this season but they are always striving to get better which is their most admirable quality.

In your opinion, what is the most important life lesson you learned while competing at the NCAA Div. III level?

Academics > athletics

How many hours a week do you spend on Facebook?

What would be your advice for someone that is considering enrolling as a student-athlete at a NCAA Div. III institution?

Do it, the lessons you learn are more rewarding than you could imagine.

Who do you look up to?

As a role model in life, my dad. As a coach for who I would like to emulate when I am older, I would have to say University of Akron head coach Caleb Porter. He is so confident in everything he does and he plays soccer the way it is suppose to be played.

If you could excel at any competitive sport (other than your own) which would you choose?

Basketball

Which historical sporting event would you have liked to witness?

Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier.

What's the most impressive meal you've ever cooked?

Ramen Noodles

What’s your favorite sports team/Who’s your favorite athlete?

My favorite sports team is Ohio State in every single sport. My favorite athlete in the world is Leo Messi

My favorite sports memory is…?

Sweet 16 win vs ONU in 2011

Any Pet Peeves?

When people end sentences with “and yeah…..” or “sooo….”

Favorite hobbies outside work/school?

Family time

First job?

Paper boy for the SNP Upper Arlington News.

Favorite ice cream?

Coffee

Five Minutes With ... Kimmie Dyer

Wittenberg Senior Volleyball Player Kimmie Dyer

Name: Kimmie Dyer

Hometown/High School: Copley, OH/Copley

Institution: Wittenberg University

Major: Business

Sport: Volleyball

I am originally from ... Copley, Ohio

Why did you choose to attend a NCAA Division III institution? I knew I wanted to play volleyball in college and I was looking for a smaller school with a good academic reputation.  Division III seemed to be what I was looking for.

How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III?  You are a true student-athlete in Division III.  School comes first, and then sports.

How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at Wittenberg? I’ve had a fairly easy time balancing athletics and academics.  All of my professors are really understanding when we have to miss class for volleyball.  They are usually flexible and will let me make up tests at my convenience.  My coach was also good at making sure we were getting our work done with activities like study tables and academic meetings. 

How would you best describe your normal day as a student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level? Wake up and go to class, then go to practice, come home and eat dinner then do homework.

Favorite thing about Wittenberg? The sense of community and the people.

Favorite thing about the NCAC? The schools are relatively close together so we don’t have to travel too far to play most matches.

What do you want to be when you grow up? I’m not exactly sure, but I know I want to do something in marketing or public relations.

People may be surprised to know that ... I am obsessed with Shaquille O’Neal.

What aspect of being a student-athlete at the Div. III level, do you hope to take with you into your professional life? Time management skills

What has been your most memorable moment in athletics during your collegiate career? Winning a National Championship!

What’s currently playing on your I-Pod? Amy MacDonald – This Is The Life

Do you have one coach and/or professor that has impacted your career the most at Wittenberg? My coach Paco Labrador.  He is such a great coach and knows so much about the game of volleyball.  He puts a lot of effort into what he does and it shows in all the success his teams have had.  He has also taught me some really valuable life lessons over the last couple of years.

Who do you look up to? My sister

If you could be a superhero which special power would you choose to have? Time travel

If you could excel at any competitive sport (other than your own) which would you choose? Soccer

Who’s your favorite athlete? Shaq.  He is so cool, especially what he does outside of basketball, like being a police officer.  He’s also really funny.

Any Pet Peeves? I don’t like when the sheets come un-tucked from the bottom of my bed

Favorite ice cream? Graeters' Black Raspberry Chip

Five Minutes With ... Don Hunsinger

Former Oberlin College Football and Tennis coach Don Hunsinger

We recently sat down with former Oberlin College college football and tennis coach Don Hunsinger {right} for the NCAC's first video installment of "Five Minutes With ..."


The first portion of the two part interview can be found on the NCAC website at the address below. Part II of the interview will be posted on the same page on November 2nd.

http://www2.northcoast.org/fiveminuteswith/DonHunsinger

Five Minutes With ... Ben Groff

Wittenberg Director of Tiger Sports Network Ben Groff

Name: Ben Groff

Hometown/High School: Worthington, OH/ Worthington Kilbourne

Institution: Wittenberg University

Major: Communications

Minors: Journalism and Spanish

Sport: Director of Tiger Sports Network

I am originally from ... Columbus, OH

Why did you choose to attend an NCAA Division III institution? I was recruited to play lacrosse.

How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III? It is what you make of it.  There is not much of a national spotlight so you must love the game to put in the same time and effort that the bigger schools require without getting the exposure or scholarships.  We just try to have fun.

How has your experience been in balancing broadcasting athletics and academics at Wittenberg? It has been a good experience.  I really have learned how to organize my time.  I’ve also had the chance to work with some real professionals, like Scott Leo, the voice of the Columbus Clippers.  Our department chair, Dr. Matt Smith, is committed to giving us challenging work as well as the theoretical background in this field.

How would you best describe your normal day as a student-media member at the NCAA Div. III level? As the Director of the Tiger News Network and Torch (Student Paper) Sports Editor, I am in constant contact with Wittenberg athletes and the people who work with me to cover our university’s athletics.  A normal day for me consists of sending emails to our sports writers and other members of our media team informing them of game times and also contacting athletes for information on upcoming and previously played events.  I am also finishing my senior year and have class every day during the week so preparing for graduation takes up a lot of my time as well. 

Favorite thing about Wittenberg? I really enjoy how competitive our sports teams are here at Wittenberg.  It keeps our athletic events exciting and brings positive attention to our university. 

Favorite thing about the NCAC? I like the rivalries between the schools affiliated with the NCAC.  Wittenberg and Wooster have traditionally been big rivals but there are also rivalries within each individual sport, like Wabash for football or Ohio Wesleyan and Denison for lacrosse.  These specific rivalries make each program exciting and interesting in its own way.  

What do you want to be when you grow up? I am not totally sure what I would like to do after I graduate but I am interested in working with sports information for a major university.  I have always had an interest in sports and I enjoy cover all types of athletics.  I am looking for an opportunity to use my Wittenberg experience, preferably with a group that focuses on sports.  My preference would be to do more of the behind the scenes producing, editing and directing.  As the Student Director of Tiger News and the Torch Sports Editor, I’ve worked with a great team of professionals, faculty and other students.  We’ve built up an internet following of parents and fans across the country and even started getting local sponsorship.  I hope I can continue to build on my experience at another great college or broadcast network.

What has been your most memorable moment in athletic broadcasting during your collegiate career? The Wittenberg lacrosse team’s first win against Denison in April of 2010.  The Tigers won 9-8 in OT.

What would you like to accomplish, both in academics and athletic broadcasting, before you graduate? I’ve tried to get an understanding of as many different forms of media as possible.  I’d also like to build our program by adding more student staff to cover more sports and give Wittenberg student athletes and announcers wider exposure.

If you could be a superhero which special power would you choose to have? Super human strength

If you could excel at any competitive sport which would you choose? Football

Which historical sporting event would you have liked to witness? 2002 National Championship Game between Ohio State and Miami.

What’s your favorite sports team/Who’s your favorite athlete? The Dallas Cowboys/Emmitt Smith

Favorite hobbies outside work/school? Disc Golf, personal fitness, travel and, of course, watching great sports competitions!

First job? Paper boy

Favorite ice cream? Mint Chocolate Chip, from Graeter’s

Best/worst summer job? Worst: Shell Gas Station Attendant/Best: Country Club Life Guard

Five Minutes With ... Joe Haklin

Wabash AD Joe Haklin

Name: Joe Haklin

Institution: Wabash College

Title: Director of Athletics and Campus Wellness

Education: Bachelor's in history, Wabash; M.A. Athletic Administration, Wayne State

I am originally from ... Chesterton, Indiana. 

Why do you have an awesome job? I interact with talented student-athletes, faculty, and staff on a daily basis. They are interested in a wide variety of things and that piques my interest. I try to give them the tools they need to be successful.

When did you know you wanted to be an athletic director?  I earned my masters degree in 1981 rather early in my coaching career. Once I achieved that goal, I felt that at some point I would put it to use as an athletic director.

Favorite thing about Wabash? Wabash has great school spirit. It takes great pride in the accomplishments of its student-athletes. They are supported by the entire institution.

Favorite thing about the NCAC? It’s vital that conference members share the same educational values and philosophy. The NCAC member schools do share common values relative to education and athletics.

How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III? Students play intercollegiate sports because they want to. They play because they feel the experience is worthwhile to them. They do not play to entertain the rest of the campus. The learning is in the playing.

How did your collegiate experience help to prepare you to be an administrator at the Div. III level? I was able to succeed as a student-athlete at Wabash College. I have lived the experience first-hand as a Phi Beta Kappa graduate in history while playing three varsity sports: football, basketball, and baseball.

Why did you choose to work at a NCAA Division III institution? I enjoy the fact that you can have adult conversations with student-athletes at Division III institutions. You can discuss such things as study abroad experiences, internship experiences, service experiences, and classroom and lab experiences. It’s fun to watch young people grow and develop over a four year period to become leaders in their field.

What are the toughest issues facing Div. III athletes today?  Too much to do and not enough time to do it. They have to be careful not to get over-extended. They can only do so much and still do it well.

If you could excel at any competitive sport which would you choose? Golf. Without question, golf is the best game to age with. It tests your physical tools, your judgment, and your emotions. And it does this in beautiful surroundings.

What’s your favorite sports team/Who’s your favorite athlete? My favorite sports team is the Indianapolis Colts. My favorite athlete of all- time in any sport is Walter Payton. He embodied all that is good about sports. I loved his work ethic.


Any Pet Peeves? I have a hard time with people who complain about a situation but offer no concrete ways to make it better. If you have a beef, tell me how to improve the situation.

Five Minutes With ... Mike Garabedian

Denison Men's Basketball Player Mike Garabedian

Name: Mike Garabedian

Hometown/High School: La Grange, IL/Nazareth Academy

Institution: Denison University

Major: Communicationd

Sport: Men’s Basketball


I am originally from ... La Grange, Illinois

Why did you choose to attend a NCAA Division III institution? Basketball was definitely one of the reasons that I came to Denison, but I also liked the “family-like” atmosphere that it presented.  It reminded me a lot of the high school I went to because it’s relatively small and you get to know pretty much everyone.

How would you describe the philosophy of NCAA Div. III? That’s kind of a tough question to answer. But from an athlete’s perspective, the D-III level contains some of the most hard-working and dedicated student-athletes that I’ve ever been around.  It isn’t about the money or publicity to us; it’s about the love of the game and being a part of a team.

How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at Denison? Believe it or not, I actually think playing basketball in college has helped me academically.  I always seem to do better in school while we are in-season because it forces me to make sure I get everything done ahead of time in case we have a long road trip or game the next day.  When we aren’t in-season it’s really easy to procrastinate.

How would you best describe your normal day as a student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level? I.e. What do you do all day? It’s a little different for me because I twist my ankles all the time so after classes I go down to the training room for treatment before practices and work-outs.  Other than that I think it’s pretty much the same compared to what other student-athletes do.  Go to class, eat as much as possible during the day to keep you going and get all your homework done at night after work-outs.

Favorite thing about Denison? My teammates.

Favorite thing about the NCAC? Tremendous competition.  Anyone can beat anyone any night and that’s what makes it fun.

What do you want to be when you grow up? I want to get involved in Sports Media Relations or a related field but I’m mostly just concerned about getting a job when I get out of college.

If you could trade places with someone for a day, who would it be and why? Derrick Rose.  I love that guy.

If you are stranded on an island, you would like to be with …… Carrie Underwood

What has been your most memorable moment in athletics during your collegiate career? Beating Wabash last year at our place.  They were 15th in the nation at the time and Jim Leffew drained a 35-footer off the glass at the buzzer to beat them by three.  That was such a good team that Wabash had last year so it meant a lot to us to beat them and I felt really good for Jim when he hit the shot because he’s been through so much in his career.  Plus, he saved me after I committed a stupid foul at the end of the game so it was a combination between jubilation and relief for me that night.

What’s currently playing on your I-Pod? Bruce Springsteen

What would be your advice for someone that is considering enrolling as a student-athlete at a NCAA Div. III institution? First of all, don’t hesitate to do it.  Playing basketball in college was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.  It really bugs me when people come up to me and ask “What’s the point of playing D-III? No one cares about it because it’s not D-1.”  I’m not kidding – people have asked me that before.  Make the decision to play, stick to it and then take in every moment.  There aren’t that many people out there that can say they played a sport in college and the relationships that you develop with your teammates and coaches over the four years are priceless.

If you could excel at any competitive sport (other than your own) which would you choose? Baseball

Which historical sporting event would you have liked to witness? When the Cubs won the 1908 World Series.  Every year they make me believe less and less that they’ll win one in my lifetime.

What’s your favorite sports team/Who’s your favorite athlete? Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls.  And I’m really annoying about it too.  Favorite athletes are Derrick Rose and Ryne Sandberg.

Any Pet Peeves? It really bothers me when broadcasters say “lacksadaisical” instead of “lackadaisical.”  I’m looking at you, Billy Packer.

Five Minutes With ...

Name: Makorobondo “Dee” Salukombo

Hometown/High School: Lakewood, OH/Lakewood

Institution: Denison University

Major: Chemistry

Sport (s): Cross Country, Indoor & Outdoor Track and Field


• Why did you choose to attend a NCAA Division III institution?

MDS: I chose a DIII institution for three reasons: the strong academics, the close community where everyone knows each other and getting to participate in the sports I love while putting my academics as the first priority.


• If you could trade places with someone for a day, who would it be and why?

MDS: I would trade places with my cousin Timothy who lives in Africa. He thinks that once someone comes to America, he or she automatically becomes rich. I don’t know if one day would be enough but I would love for him to see that America is not heaven. Even though there are so many more opportunities in America than Congo, I would love for him to know that even rich people in America have to WORK HARD to get where they are.


• How would you most accurately describe or define the ideals on which the NCAA Div. III was founded?

MDS: I think the ideals where founded on diversity because you could be a great athlete, an outstanding student and still have enough time to make an impact on your community through volunteering and other projects


• People may be surprised to know that ……

MDS: In May, I will be running from Granville to Lakewood (120 miles, 40 miles/day) in 3 days to raise some funds to help students in my native village of Kirotshe in the D.R. Congo.


• How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at Denison University?

MDS: At first, I thought that I had everything under control as I did in high school. Then I realized that I was wrong. So I went to my teachers, advisors and coaches, and they helped me come up with a better study and running schedule.


• If you are stranded on an island, you would like to be with ……

MDS: I would love to be with my entire family because my brothers and sisters tell the funniest jokes and we will all be laughing and forget about time…until someone finds us.


• What is the life of a student-athlete studying chemistry like at Denison University?

MDS: Two words: EXTREMELY CHALLENGING. I run about 80 miles a week, which always leaves me empty. I don’t know if I could be able to do what I have done so far if we didn’t have amazing professors and coaching staff who care about you not only when you're on the track, but in everything you do, and are willing to help in any way they can.


• Do you have any hidden talents that very few people know about?

MDS: I was a very good dancer in Africa and I could do a few tricks with a soccer ball (well, any ball). Also, I can make my stomach big as if I am 6 months pregnant right after I finish eating.


• What aspect of being a student-athlete at the Div. III level, do you hope to take with you into your professional life?

MDS: I hope to always be a self motivator and a benefit to my team


• What has been your most memorable moment in athletics during your collegiate career?

MDS: Being an All-American for the first time! I went from being 236th my freshmen year to be 33rd my sophomore year. The best part was the joy that it brought to Coach T. I always like to see him happy.

• What would you like to accomplish, both in academics and athletics, before you graduate?

MDS: I want to get all A’s for the rest of my college classes and I want to win a national championship.


• What’s currently playing on your I-Pod?

MDS: I don’t own an I-Pod


• Do you have one coach and or professor in mind that has impacted your career the most at Denison University?

MDS: My cross-country coach Phil Torrens has impacted me the most. As a high school senior, he came to most of my track meets to show his support. I thought that was because he just wanted me to come to Denison. But, I am a junior now, and he has been there for me from day one of my college career to now with the same passion and excitement from those good old high school days.


• What is your most prized possession?

MDS: My extremely colorful African shirt my aunt Marie Jeanne gave me about 8yrs ago!!! It was huge then, but it fits me perfectly now!


• In your opinion, what is the most important life lesson you learned while competing at the NCAA Div. III level?

MDS: Never give up. Even though you may fail the first, second, or even third time, keep learning from your mistakes and find the best plan to make you the best you can possibly be.


• How many hours a week do you spend on Facebook?

MDS: 3.5 to 5.


• What would be your advice for someone that is considering enrolling as a student-athlete at a NCAA Div. III institution?

MDS: If you want a quality education and meeting long lasting friends, then you are doing the right thing.


• How would you best describe your normal day as a student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level?

MDS: Wake up, eat my bagel and banana for breakfast, go to class, get some lunch, go to work, go to practice, dinner with the team, fun time, then homework for the rest of the night.