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 ... 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 ... 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.

Sundt's Scribes: Marissa Clardy

Oberlin junior Hal Sundt sat down sophomore track star Marissa Clardy for this week’s edition of Sundt’s Scribes. While the NCAC Indoor Sprints/Hurdles Runner of the Year certainly performs well on the track, Sundt takes a look inside Clardy’s other performance domain – the Theatre.

Marissa Clardy sits on the opposite end from where I sit, in a small classroom on the third floor of the King Building of Oberlin College. We are both in the same English class, and the little that I know about her is based on this 50-minute class that we share three times per week. For the last two months I have fooled myself into thinking that I know her true personality, who she really is.

Who is she really? Click here to find out.

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.

Five Minutes With ...

Throughout the 2010-11 academic year, the North Coast Athletic Conference will give you an in-depth look into the lives of the student-athletes, administrators and faculty members of the conference who epitomize what it means to compete, study and educate at the NCAA Div. III level. We hope that this feature will help people gain a better understanding of why individuals have decided to make NCAA Div. III a cornerstone of their life.

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Name/Institution: Meghan Horn/The College of Wooster

Title: Assistant to the Athletic Director/Assistant Track & Field Coach

Education: Bachelors: University of Notre Dame 06’
Masters: Central Michigan University 08’

• Why did you choose to work at an NCAA Division III institution?

MH: I chose to work in Division III athletics because you feel like you are a part of family when working in the athletic department. I enjoy being able to work in a variety of areas in an athletic department. After interning at a Division I institution, I knew that was not the path I wanted to follow. This is my second Division III institution I’ve worked at and I know I made the right choice.


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

MH: At this moment from the coaching side of my job, I’d like to experience the life of Jim Tressel for one day. The respect he receives from his athletes on and off the field, I’d like to see how he communicates with them.


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

MH: You are a student-athlete, with an emphasis on student.

• People may be surprised to know that ……

MH: I need to have a last name with a first name in my cell phone contacts. My sisters even think I’m crazy for having them listed by their full name.

• How has your experience been in making sure that student-athletes have a proper balance among athletics and academics at Wooster?

MH: As a new Division III coach, I’ve adjusted to the values placed on the balance between athletics and academics. As an administrator, I believe we have a great balance between the two at The College of Wooster.

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

MH: A hunter.

• Are there any major obstacles that you’ve had to overcome when dealing with Div. III athletics?

MH: The mentality of a Division III athlete is much different than a Division I.

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

MH: No. If I had a cool talent I wouldn’t keep it hidden!

• How did your collegiate experience help to prepare you to be an administrator at the Div. III level?

MH: Any time you are on a team it helps develop the key traits needed to work together. At a Division III institution you need to be able to work closely and work well together.

• What has been your most memorable moment in your administrative career at Wooster?

MH: Last year I had a guest speaker come and talk to the athletes about stress management. After the presentation I had athletes come up and thank me. Helping the student-athletes is our job and for them to thank me means I was helping.


• What are the toughest issues facing Div. III athletes in today’s world?

MH: Trying to be multi-sport athletes.

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

MH: A random mix– Country, Pop, Classic Rock, Rap, Blues….. Everything. I love music!

• What do you feel are the most rewarding aspects of being a college administrator at the Div. III level, and what may be some of the least rewarding aspects of the job?

MH: The most rewarding aspect is helping the student-athletes. The least rewarding is sometimes it feels like you are talking to a wall.

• What is your most prized possession?

MH: My Big East – Outdoor Track & Field Championship Ring.

• What are some of the life lessons that you believe student athletes can learn by competing at the Div. III level?

MH: Like any collegiate athlete, time management.

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

MH: It won’t be easy. But if you work hard and make the commitment, you will find success.
• How would you best describe your normal day as an administrator at the Div. III level?

MH: Being an Administrator and a Coach, I feel like I never know what the day will bring. There is no “normal” day but I guess that’s what I enjoy about it!

Five Minutes With ...

Throughout the 2010-11 academic year, the North Coast Athletic Conference will give you an in-depth look into the lives of the student-athletes, administrators and faculty members of the conference who epitomize what it means to compete, study and educate at the NCAA Div. III level. We hope that this feature will help people gain a better understanding of why individuals have decided to make NCAA Div. III a cornerstone of their life.

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Name: Caileigh Hughes

Hometown/High School: Newark, OH/Newark Catholic

Institution: Allegheny College

Major: History

Sport: Track and Field

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

CH: I wanted to take a gradual step between high school and graduate school. My high school graduating class only had 65 people and the thought of going to a big school was a little daunting. I also wanted a college where I could be academically challenged and continue my athletic endeavors. Division III just seemed to fit, because Division III colleges/universities understand that while sports are important, academics come first.

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

CH: My Great-Great Grandmother before she passed away. She was born in 1900 and passed away in 1994. Throughout her lifetime she saw so many things. The sinking of the Titanic, two World Wars, the invention of cars, planes, refrigerators, television, a man on the moon, Jessie Owens winning a Gold Medal in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, The Civil Rights Movement and the falling of the Berlin Wall to name a few. To be able to witness everything that she did, is amazing to me. She truly lived history.

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

CH: Commitment, Tradition and Excellence. They are committed to their athletes, there is a rich tradition in NCAA Div. III athletics and they always strive to be better.

People may be surprised to know that ……

CH: I am a history major, but I am planning on going to nursing school.

How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at your Allegheny College?

CH: It is not as hard as some people may lead you to believe. The trick is to be proactive. I have found it helpful to introduce myself to every professor after our first class, let them know what team I’m on, and hand them our game/meet schedule with departure times listed on it. Then I highlight the days I will either have to leave class early or miss entirely. The professors are very appreciative and have been very helpful when I have to take quizzes, exams or hand in assignments early. I also think it’s helpful to have a day planner or a large calendar. I write down when I have quizzes, exams or assignments due and I write down when I have practices, games or meets. I find when I keep everything in order, I do not end up feeling overwhelmed because I know what is coming and can plan accordingly.

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

CH: My Grandma MaryAnn. She is the most amazing person I know and we always have a good time when we are together.

What is the life of a student-athlete studying history like at Allegheny College?

CH: Honestly, I think all student athletes’ lives are very similar. We are very busy people and we are involved not only in athletics, but clubs and other student organizations. Ours days are busy and it is just about learning what our priorities are and finding a way to get things done. For me, I am currently working on my senior comprehensive project, preparing for the upcoming NCAC SAAC meeting (I am the Secretary), training my replacement here as Allegheny’s SAAC Secretary, going to class, practice, work, and making sure all of my school work is done.

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

CH: I ride motorcycles and have a Harley Sportster 100 Anniversary Edition motorcycle.

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

CH: I hope to take my determination, work-ethic, leadership skills, communication skills and people skills with me. Many things we learn through being athletes transition over into the real word.

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

CH: There are two. The first is the first time I did the heptathlon my sophomore year. My coach came to me two days before the event and told me he was going to teach me how to hurdle, high jump and throw shot-put in fifteen minutes. The second was having the opportunity to go to Europe with the volleyball team and play teams from Germany, Holland and Belgium.

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

CH: I would like to get at least a B+ on my senior comprehensive project and I would like to earn first team All NCAC in one of my events in Track and Field.

What’s currently playing on your I-Pod?

CH: Gimme Shelter by the Rolling Stones

Do you have one coach and or professor in mind that has impacted your career the most at Allegheny College?

CH: Bonnie Mailliard, she is the secretary in our athletic office. She has been my work study boss for all four years. She is an amazing person and she is always looking out not only for those in the office, but the student-athletes as well. She is a kind hearted person who leads by example. She has always been there when I needed someone to listen or when I needed help hashing through a tough decision.

What is your most prized possession?

CH: The girls that I live with in the “Nut” House or the Nutrition House. The four of them have been great friends. We are so lucky because we challenge each other academically and on the track, and we are great stress relievers for each other because we are such a light hearted and goofy bunch.

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

CH: To relax, live in the moment and have fun.

How many hours a week do you spend on Facebook?

CH: Probably about two because I try to limit myself to fifteen minutes a day.

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

CH: Do it. I have enjoyed it because it helped me attain the balance in my life that I strive for between academics, athletics, and social life.

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

CH: Every day I have at least one class, work (work study in the athletic office), practice and homework. Every day is a puzzle, the trick is finding where everything best fits.

Five Minutes With ...

Throughout the 2010-11 academic year, the North Coast Athletic Conference will give you an in-depth look into the lives of the student-athletes, administrators and faculty members of the conference who epitomize what it means to compete, study and educate at the NCAA Div. III level. We hope that this feature will help people gain a better understanding of why individuals have decided to make NCAA Div. III a cornerstone of their life.

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Name: Abena Boamah-Acheampong

Hometown/High School: Reynoldsburg, OH/Pickerington Central

Institution: The College Of Wooster

Major: Psychology

Minor (s): Mathematics & Education

Sport: Track & Field

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

ABA: I decided to come to The College of Wooster because I always wanted to go to a small liberal arts school, and they have great academics and a good track and field program.


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

ABA: Dr. Ben Carson, so that I could perform a brain surgery!


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

ABA: I think that NCAA Div. III athletics ideals are founded on sportsmanship and competition but overall the quality of the academic programs that the schools have.


People may be surprised to know that ……

ABA: I am a huge Harry Potter fan.

How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at your institution?

ABA: With this experience I have learned how to manage my time really well and I have learned so much about myself. Overall it has been a very good experience, so far I have learned so many things and met some very great friends.


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

ABA: If I was stranded on an island I would like to be stuck with someone that has survived being stranded island before and my best friend.


What is the life of a student-athlete studying Psychology like at Wooster?

ABA: I think that it can sometimes be stressful, but at the end of the day being part of the psychology department and also being an athlete is a pretty great life!


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

ABA: I have played the piano ever since I was five years old!

Five Minutes With ...

Throughout the 2010-11 academic year, the North Coast Athletic Conference will give you an in-depth look into the lives of the student-athletes, administrators and faculty members of the conference who epitomize what it means to compete, study and educate at the NCAA Div. III level. We hope that this feature will help people gain a better understanding of why individuals have decided to make NCAA Div. III a cornerstone of their life.

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Name: Kenneth James Farris

Hometown/High School: Indianapolis, IN/Cardinal Ritter

Institution: Wabash College

Major (s): Rhetoric/English

Sport (s): Cross Country and Track & Field




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

KJF: I chose to attend an NCAA Division III institution because of the personalized focus in all aspects of life. Academically, socially and athletically, Wabash College has given me the opportunity to be challenged, to succeed and to grow as a person. I love knowing right now that I am still growing with the help of many people around me. I don’t think I could have received that sort of care at many other places besides Wabash College.


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

KJF: I’d like to trade places with a lot of people. There’s so much that I still want to experience and understand that it’s hard to single out one person. I am really looking forward to spending 8 weeks in Kenya performing service at a Franciscan friary and the experiences I will gain and learn from there, whatever those may be.


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

KJF: I always have considered NCAA Division III’s ideals to be a focus on the complete student-athlete. Academics come first at Wabash College, and I fervently believe it should be that way at all NCAA institutions. What NCAA Division III athletics has allowed me to do is allow me to apply what I have learned or am learning into my athletic endeavors, whether that is practices or races.


• People may be surprised to know that ……

KJF: I attend an all-male college. Not many people have the courage to knowingly accept spending five out of every seven days for four years without girls; that is evidenced by the fact that there are only three all-male, non-religious colleges in America.


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

KJF: In choosing to participate in a Division III sport at Wabash, balancing athletics and academics is expected. Coaches, faculty and student-athletes expect each of us to develop the skills to do this well. I take great pride in the 2009 Wabash College Cross Country team’s average GPA of 3.58, which ranked us 4th nationally. Knowing that this balanced is expected keeps my focus where it should be and pushes me to expect more out of my fellow Wabash student-athletes and myself.


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

KJF: I haven’t seen Cast Away all the way through, so I haven’t really given much thought to a question like this. Right now, I would want a notebook, a pen and a Harry Potter-typed owl that will deliver letters and return with peanut butter, at least.


• What is the life of a student-athlete studying Rhetoric & English like at Wabash College?

KJF: Studying Rhetoric and English, among all other disciplines a student at this liberal arts school immerses into, is very rewarding. This past summer, I lived on campus interning for the Rhetoric Department, and my main job was to help them finish writing a public speaking course. I really enjoyed spending quality time developing strong relationships with the Rhetoric Department faculty and engrossing myself in concepts that could help inspire other students to become a Rhetoric major. The English Department is just as rewarding. This coming semester I am taking advantage of the chance to study British Literature in England. I am both nervous and excited, and the professors within the Department have helped me focus on what I should do there that would help enhance my major, including certain books to read, places to visit and events/time periods to research.


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

KJF: I am a really good moocher, and I have a very large appetite. When those two things are put together, there is rarely any food left on the table wherever I am eating.


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

KJF: All of it. The determination, the drive, the motivation, being well rounded, the work ethic, none of those should be sold short once I graduate.


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

KJF: Competing in the Division III National Cross Country Meet this past fall stands out in my mind above all else. That race really exposed me to great competition, the high character of my teammates and program, and the honors and level of athletic achievement that can be shown. This race showed exactly who I am physically, mentally and emotionally in an environment full of pomp and circumstance.


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

KJF: I would like to graduate Magna Cum Laude from Wabash and earn distinction on my Senior Comprehensive Exams, a rigorous Wabash practice dating back past the 1920s. Athletically, I want to greatly improve on my National meet performance and run a sub-15 minute 5k.


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

KJF: Coldplay and Taylor Swift. Say what you want.


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

KJF: Not yet. Many people have made a substantial impact on my time at Wabash College, and without each of them my experience at this institution would be far different and less rewarding.


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

KJF: I’ve learned the role that athletics can play in revealing your character and current state as a person. My teammates and I talk about how a sport like cross country is honest in that the sport constantly pushes you to the edge, revealing how you react in tough times and in easier times. As I’ve reflected on that more, all sports allow you to reach this point of self-revelation, especially when combined with a 100% effort towards the rest of your life. Through the help of my teammates, coaches, parents and faculty, I’m learning how to apply those lessons in ways that better my personal self and the world around me.


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

KJF: Probably 3-4.


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

KJF: Do it.


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

KJF: In a nut-shell, I would describe it as “early to bed, early to rise”. I wake up around 7, eat breakfast, and am off to my campus job, class or other academic work. Some days begin earlier with a run or other workout; I enjoy those days the most. I try to keep busy throughout the day through club involvement and studying, but most days I have just under an hour of free time before practice to read, talk on the phone, or check up on Facebook or ESPN.com. Practice is at 4:20 Monday-Friday and lasts until 630 or so. At my fraternity, dinner is served at 6:30, then it’s an evening of homework, studying, or flurrying around doing club stuff or the fraternity seeing what’s going on. I’m usually in bed by 11:30, and I am normally first to bed in the entire fraternity.

Five Minutes With ...

Throughout the 2010-11 academic year, the North Coast Athletic Conference will give you an in-depth look into the lives of the student-athletes, administrators and faculty members of the conference who epitomize what it means to compete, study and educate at the NCAA Div. III level. We hope that this feature will help people gain a better understanding of why individuals have decided to make NCAA Div. III a cornerstone of their life.

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Name: Sean Patrick

Hometown/High School: Delaware, OH/Delaware Hayes High School

Institution: Ohio Wesleyan University

Major: Early Childhood Education

Minor: History

Sport: Track & Field

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

SP: I wanted to be given the opportunity to compete in a sport and excel in the classroom. Division III allowed me to be a scholar and an athlete.



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

SP: I would have to choose Norman Vincent Peale. He was an OWU graduate and the author of many great Christian inspirational books. I have done quite a bit of research on him for my independent study this year. His mindset on the Power of Positive Thinking changed many people’s lives, including mine.



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

SP: Division III has a strict focus on scholarship. Athletics combined with education, creates a framework where graduates of Division III institutions are able to develop well-rounded skill sets.



• People may be surprised to know that ……

SP: I live at home and have for the past four years of college. I love my family and enjoy spending the time with them at home. Also, I have saved a great deal of money choosing to live at home.



• How has your experience been in balancing athletics and academics at Ohio Wesleyan?

SP: I have been able to balance both academics and athletics pretty efficiently over the past four years. I have competed in football, soccer and track during my time in college. Participating in athletics actually helps me stay focused on my school work.


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

SP: I would have to choose my Gram. I love all my family and would choose any of them, but my Gram is a lot of fun and is my inspiration to live my life to the fullest.



• What is the life of a student-athlete studying Early Childhood Education like at Ohio Wesleyan?

SP: Studying education at OWU is rigorous and exciting. The reason that I chose OWU was for the education department. They have done everything to prepare me for student teaching, which I will be completing next semester. It is a challenge as an athlete to do both because of the amount of time that both responsibilities require. I would not change it for the world, even though both are time consuming, they are both intrinsically rewarding.


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

SP: I used to sing in choir for 6 years and I sang at Carnegie Hall with my choir. I am a decent singer, not amazing, but decent. I can hit every note when I turn the music loud enough…



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

SP: As a future educator, I hope to take my dedication to being a “well-rounded” individual into my teaching career. Each student that I encounter will have a different set of skills and a varying level of ability. This will allow me to instill in each student the passion to further all their abilities whether they are a weakness or strength. I want them to realize that hard work and dedication surpasses raw ability.



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

SP: I would have to say that the most memorable moment was done while organizing and hosting the Bishop Champion Games. This is a special needs track and field meet that my fellow OWU athletes and I put on each year. This will be the third year that we will host the games and each year I have a more memorable experience than the last. Seeing these athletes compete and give it everything that they have replaces any of the conference titles, national qualifying marks and team conference titles that I have been a part of over the past 4 years.


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

SP: I have qualified for the national meet twice but never went so this year hopefully will be the year I can compete at the meet. The outdoor nationals are at OWU this year so ending my senior year at home competing would be rewarding. Academically, I want to do an excellent job student teaching. I will be working in two buildings where I hope to get a job teaching after I graduate.


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

SP: Secrets by OneRepublic



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

SP: Dr. McClure in the education department has truly dedicated her time towards preparing me to reach my potential. I am very thankful for her dedication as well as the dedication of Gayle Reidenbach to my future as a teacher.



• What is your most prized possession?

SP: My student Bible with notes. I entrench my life in faith in my Savior. I am blessed to have an unyielding faith that with God all things are possible.



• What is the most important life lesson you learned while competing at the NCAA Div. III level?

SP: You can truly impact the world around you. In a world where monotony and mediocrity dominate, I have had the chance here at OWU to make a difference in my community and in my athletic sphere.



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

SP: Well…. More than I should. Probably on average around 15 minutes a day.



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

SP: If you look to be a scholar athlete look no further than Division III. It is the true definition of scholarship.

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

SP: Class, teaching at Willis, lifting with my boys on the track team, maybe play a little basketball, practice, eating as much as possible, homework, reading my Bible and if there is time left playing some NCAA Football on XBOX

Five Minutes With ...

Throughout the 2010-11 academic year, the North Coast Athletic Conference will give you an in depth look into the lives of the student-athletes, administrators and faculty members of the conference who epitomize what it means to compete, study and educate at the NCAA Div. III level. To accomplish this task, the conference office has conducted question and answer sessions with member school student-athletes, administrators and faculty members. We hope that this feature will help people gain a better understanding of why individuals have decided to make NCAA Div. III a cornerstone of their life.

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Name: Brandon Jacobs

Hometown/High School: Burlington, New Jersey/The Hill School

Institution: The College of Wooster

Major (s): Communication Studies and Sociology

Sport (s): Indoor/Outdoor Track


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

BJ: I got the chance to do everything I wanted to do and more…I chose to attend Wooster because it gave me a chance to play a sport at a high Division III level, receive a great education and take part in the Senior Independent Study project at Wooster. Along with being the S.A.A.C president, DJ on my radio show, working in the Admissions office, and so much more, Wooster gave me a chance to be much more than just a student-athlete..


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

BJ: Nick Cannon…therefore I would be married to Mariah Carey. We’re destined to be. She may not know it yet, but we are.


• People may be surprised to know that ……

BJ: Just couldn’t wait…I was born premature. 3 pounds and 12 ounces to be exact. And exactly 2 months early. Probably why I’m so tall today.


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

BJ: Extremely rewarding. My experience of balancing both athletics and academics has been extremely rewarding in more ways than one. I believe playing a sport in college has actually helped with my academics because it has forced me to be on a strict schedule and prioritize my time.


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

BJ: Zach Galifianakis…If I’m stranded on an island, I would be want to be entertained a least right??


• What is the life of a student-athlete studying Communication Studies and Sociology like at Wooster?

BJ: A lot easier than I thought it would be…Being a double major and a student-athlete is a little harder than most because you have to take a certain amount of classes to fit into your curriculum; however at Wooster it was a lot easier than I expected. Because all of our classes end at 4:00 p.m. each day, I have been able to take all the classes I wanted to take and fit in two majors despite also being a student-athlete.


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

BJ: Chubby bunny…I can fit an average of 12 marshmallows in my mouth at any given time.


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

BJ: The ability to work with and be part of a team. I believe one of the best aspects of being a student-athlete at the Div. III level is the ability to meet such a wide range of people, teammates, and those around you on campus. Div. III athletics allow you to work together with a greater group of people who actually care about the sport, past just an obligation, but rather for the enjoyment. This chance to work with a team will be very helpful in the rest of my life.


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

BJ: In academics, I would like to experience the chance to study abroad, which I will be doing this spring break when I travel to Kenya. In athletics, I would like to take first place in the long jump in at least one meet this year.


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

BJ: “Mama Song”—Boyz II Men….(I hear her even on my iPod)


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

BJ: Dr. Thomas Tierney of the College of Wooster Sociology Department. Professor Tierney is my academic advisor and I consider him to be one of my really good friends. Without his desire to see me through a lot of my career, I do no believe I would be a Sociology major or where I am today.


• What is your most prized possession?

BJ: They keep me going…My three younger brothers.


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

BJ: I have over 2,300 friends…You really don’t want to know the answer to this question.


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

BJ: Choose a school for you, not athletics. My advice to any student-athlete at a NCAA Div. III institution would be to choose a college that fits you best and you can see yourself at without playing a sport. Sports will not last forever and you never know what can happen to end your career. However, you want to find a school that fits you best based on all your wants, not just athletics. I’m a living example of this idea.


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

BJ: Never boring, that’s for sure…If its not in the weight room or studying for a test the next day, the life of student-athlete at the NCAA Div. III level is definitely always changing. We have so much going on that it helps that we are able to adapt to new things and still have fun!