Ranger Weekend kicked off its alumni games across campus on Saturday, Oct. 19, starting bright and early with the Women’s Lacrosse game at 9 a.m. The team welcomed back an energetic group of returning players. Among them was recent graduate Emma DiPatri (C‘24) who reflected on the experience with her former teammates and coaches. “Catching up with everyone and reconnecting over the sport we love and worked so hard in together means so much.” The game was a fun time for all involved, and the girls could be seen laughing and conversing amongst themselves on and off the clock.
In the Baldwin Gymnasium, Women’s Basketball also welcomed back returning players. Alice Altomare (‘27), a shooting guard for the team, said it was “really cool that our assistant coach is an alum so we got to cheer her on this past weekend as well.” She enjoyed being with the alumni and said they were “super helpful giving us advice and tips” when it came to gameplay. Altomare went on to discuss how special of an experience it was to reminisce on past times together and to hear from the alumni about where their lives have led them post-graduation.
The alumni games followed the Hall of Fame induction ceremony the night before, where four past graduates were inducted and the 2012 Baseball team was recognized. The annual tradition of inviting back past alumni to play their sport not only provides a reunion amongst players but also fosters long-lasting connections between alumni and their school. Ranger Weekend gives current, off-season student-athletes a chance to play their sport while bringing the Drew community together on and off the field of play.
President Link made appearances at many of the alumni games, taking a few moments to speak to the alumni, players and coaches and pledge her support for the upcoming seasons. Link mentioned that she and her administration are “doing everything in our power to make you proud of your alma mater,” speaking specifically to the Women’s Lacrosse team when she discussed the bonds and friendships that are created through sports teams.
DiPatri spoke straight to this point when she emphasized the importance of the alumni game to her; “it not only gives our team a chance to catch up and spend time together, but it also reminds us of the bonds and memories that we share.”
Men’s Lacrosse followed the women’s game on Ranger Field while Fencing commenced in the Forum, both of which saw decent turnout amongst returning players and viewers. Softball, Baseball and Tennis all hosted alumni games as part of Ranger Weekend as well.
Lanell Gardiner is a sophomore exploring academically.
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