2014 MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction 2013/14 Roster Season Preview The Coast Guard Academy Coast Guard Superintendent Director of Athletics Athletics Facilities Strength & Conditioning Staff Directory
1 2 3 4-5 6 7 8-9 10 11
Coast Guard Soccer Coaching Staff Player Bios History
12-17 18-23 Inside Back Cover
The 2013 Men’s Track & Field Media Guide is a publication of the Coast Guard Academy’s Athletic Media Relations Office.
MEN’S MEN’S TRACK TRACK && FIELD FIELD
www.CGASports.com
1
INTRODUCTION
CREDITS
/CoastGuard AcademyAthletics @CoastGuardBears
CGASPORTS.COM
2013 COAST GUARD CROSS COUNTRY CAPTAINS (L-R) CLAY KOSACK, BRAD PIENTA, ADAM SCALESSE, BEN WOLHAUPTER
2014 ALPHABETICAL ROSTER
ROSTER
Name Cl. Event Hometown Thomas Bondurant Sr. Throws Richmond, Va. Richard Brady Sr. Hurdles Ocala, Fla. Ben Chapman So. Distance Ellsworth, Maine Richard Davies Jr. Sprints Richardson, Texas James Dawkins Jr. Sprints Doylestown, Pa. Conlan Edwards Jr. Throws Corfu, N.Y. Gary Ezzo Sr. Distance Armada, Mich. Nicholas Foster Jr. Distance Circleville, Ohio Michael Gilbert Sr. Hurdles Kodiak, Ak. Ben Hannon Jr. Sprints Annapolis, Md. Jacob Hardiman Fr. Mid-Distance Winter Springs, Fla. Frederick Higgins So. Sprints Diamond Bar, Ca. Gilliam Hill Fr. Distance Elon, N.C. Stephen Horvath Jr. Distance San Diego, Ca. Ryan Hub Jr. Mid-Dist./Dist. Woodsboro, Md. Erick Jackson Jr. Sprints Arcata, Ca. Zack Kearney Jr. Distance Staunton, Va. William Klein Fr. Distance Andover, Mass. Jason Kniss Fr. Sprints Oak Hills, Ca. Clay Kosack Sr. Multi’s Brentwood, Tenn. Jon Lash Jr. Distance Gainesville, Va. Patrick Ledzian Fr. Distance Ocala, Fla. Jordan Lee Sr. Mid-Dist./Dist. San Leandro, Ca. James Martin Jr. Distance Hobe Sound, Fla. Matt Monahan Sr. Distance Stuart, Fla. Matt Navetta So. Pole Vault Montville, Conn. Joey O’Connell Jr. Distance Edina, Minn. Kevin Petow So. Distance Jacksonville, Fla. Brad Pienta Sr. Distance Troy, Mich. Kaci Rex Fr. Pole Vault Colorado Springs, Col. James Rimmele Fr. Distance Red Bank, N.J. Adam Scalesse Sr. Sprints/Hurdles Longview, Wash. Andrew Scheffey Fr. Mid-Distance The Woodlands, Texas Kelcey Smith Jr. Sprints Keene, N.H. Park Suski So. Distance Seminole, Fla. Caleb Teachout Fr. Distance Concord, Ga. Zachary Velasquez Fr. Distance Chula Vista, Fla. Christian Von Stralendorff Jr. Pole Vault Stuart, Fla. Ben Wolhaupter Sr. Pole Vault Agoura Hills, Ca. Jacob Yallowitz So. Distance Little Falls, N.Y. Staff Head Coach Ethan Brown (Fifth Season) Assistant Coaches Greg Ahnrud, Ray LaForte, Kim Johnson, Marcus Ivery, Ben Thuma, Andrea Parker, Chris Bonner, Patty Olson Christopher Armstrong
2
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
2014 SEASON PREVIEW Following a third place finish at last year’s NEWMAC Championships the Coast Guard men’s track time is primed for even bigger things this season. This year’s team will be led by senior captains Adam Scalesse, Ben Wolhaupter, Brad Pienta, and Clay Kosack. Ethan Brown is back for his third season at the helm as the Bears’ head coach. He’ll be assisted by Greg Ahnrud, Ray LaForte, Kim Johnson, Marcus Ivery, Ben Thuma, Andrea Parker, Chris Bonner and Patti Olson. Depth in virtually every discipline with be a major strength for the team this season as Coast Guard returns all but one (Will Baker, throws) of their primary scorers from a year ago. In the sprints, Scalesse (60m Hurdles Indoor, 110m Hurdles Outdoor), a four-time All-American, will lead the Bears in the hurdle events while also serving as the anchor on this year’s 4x400m relay team. The other members of the 4x400m relay team are expected to be juniors James Dawkins, Kelcey Smith, and sophomore Frederick Higgins. Dawkins has run as quick as a 51.44 in the 400m dash but accounted for a remarkable 48 second split at last year’s Outdoor New England Open 4x400m relay. Higgins is a hair faster than Dawkins in the 400m (50.78) but has run faster splits during relays. Smith should provide support in the 4x400m relay while also seeing some time in both the 200m and 400m runs. As a Division III New England qualifier, junior Ben Hannon was terrific a season ago and should see time between the sprint relays, 400m, and 200m this season. Wolhaupter will be Coast Guard’s top pole vaulter, after finishing 8th at the NCAA Division III Championships a season ago, earning All-American accolades. His best jump of the championship last year checked in at 15’11” and with five of the vaulters who finished ahead of him graduating, he’s on the short list of favorites to compete for the individual championship this year.
Coach Brown also points to sophomore Matt Navetta (pole vault) who was a Division III New England qualifier a year ago as someone who should consistently score for the Bears this season.
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
The deepest disciplines for Coast Guard will likely be in the distance and mid-distance events where numerous athletes are primed for big seasons. In the mid-distance, the Bears are led by Pienta who will be a fixture on the 4x800m relay team. He’ll be joined by senior Jordan Lee and juniors Ryan Hub and James Martin. Lee has run as fast a 1:54.08 in the 800m and will be counted on to provide key leadership this season. Martin has a personal best of 1:59.07 in the 800m but has run faster splits in the 4x800m relay while Hub is considered to be a 4x800m relay specialist. The distance portion of the team will be led by cross country a Division III National qualifier in senior Gary Ezzo who will be a fixture in the 3,000m and 5,000m events. He is also in the mix as a possibility in some relays. Juniors Nicholas Foster, Jon Lash, and Joey O’Connell were all key scorers during the cross country season and appear to be natural fits to join Ezzo in both the 3,000m and 5,000m. Much like his classmates, junior Stephen Horvath should be in the mix to compete in the same events, but specializes in the 3,000m outdoor steeplechase. Among newcomers, Coach Brown points to four athletes who should be major contributors immediately. Two distance runners, freshmen Gilliam Hill and Zachary Velasquez look to provide quality depth in the distance events. While Hill doesn’t have a determined specialty event as of yet, he should excel in a number of events while Velasquez will specialize in the 3,000m and also see action in the 5,000m and 1 mile. Sophomore Andrew Scheffey is another newcomer this season after injury curtailed his freshman campaign in 2012/13. He’ll be expected to add depth to the mid-distance events this year. Lastly, freshman Kaci Rex (pole vault) will be expected to supplement Navetta and Wolhaupter to give Coast Guard arguable their best trio of pole vaulters in Academy history.
SEASON PREVIEW
Kosack who is a multi-event specialist and all-around athlete was an NCAA Division III Outdoor qualifier last year in the decathlon. He made huge strides from his sophomore to junior season and Coach Brown expects the same from his junior year to his senior season this year. In addition to the decathlon, Kosack is also expected to be a major player in the indoor heptathlon in 2013/14.
The top thrower for Coast Guard will be junior Thomas Bondurant. A year ago, Bondurant launched a throw of 53’5.5” in the weight throw and was a consistent scorer in all championship events last season.
In all the Bears seem primed for a breakout season as a team and could see numerous individuals come away with significant accolades and awards. There is plenty of room for optimism about this year and the state of Coast Guard Track and Field. Putting together one of the most competitive schedules in school history should challenge this group of cadets to excel throughout both the indoor and outdoor seasons and prepare them for the championship portion of the slate.
3
COAST GUARD ACADEMY One of the smallest of the five U.S. Military Academies Four-Year Bachelor’s of Science degree program Founded in 1876 aboard the schooner Dobbin Highly selective admissions standards No tuition, traditional application process No congressional nomination necessary Education includes academics, physical fitness, character and leadership development 85 percent of graduates choose to serve beyond their five-year commitment Two graduates have been NASA Astronauts 80 percent of graduates go to graduate school (most paid for by Coast Guard
4
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
COAST GUARD QUICK FACTS The Coast Guard Academy has 23 Intercollegiate sports (11 men’s, 9 women’s, 3 co-ed) The Bears have been members of the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) in 15 sports since 1999 Coast Guard has won NEWMAC championships in Volleyball, Men’s Swimming, Men’s Basketball, Women’s Crew and Softball Teams have competed in the ECAC Championship tournament in men’s soccer, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, baseball and softball in the past five years The Bears have advanced to the NCAA Tournament Elite 8 in both Volleyball (2006) and Men’s Basketball (2007-08) COAST GUARD ACADEMY CORPS OF CADETS DEMOGRAPHICS - about 1,000 cadets enrolled - 48 states and 11 foreign nations represented - 100% of students housed on campus - 20 NCAA Division III athletic teams - 31% of cadets are women - 22% of cadets are minorities - 1 faculty member for every 8 students - 19 Cadets in an average class
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
5
REAR ADMIRAL SANDRA L. STOSZ ACADEMY SUPERINTENDENT THIRD YEAR Rear Admiral Sandra L. Stosz assumed the duties of the 40th Superintendent of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, June 3, 2011. She reported to the Academy after serving as the Director of Reserve and Leadership at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C. There she was responsible for developing policies to recruit, train and support approximately 8,100 Coast Guard Reservists.
COAST GUARD ACADEMY SUPERINTENDENT
Rear Admiral Stosz is a surface operations officer with 12 years at sea, including command of two cutters – an icebreaking tug on the Great Lakes and a medium endurance cutter that patrolled North Atlantic and Caribbean waters. She and her crews executed many of the Coast Guard’s 11 missions such as drug and alien migrant interdiction, fisheries enforcement, search and rescue, polar and domestic icebreaking and ports and waterways security. Between sea duty tours Rear Admiral Stosz specialized in personnel and resource management and program review. She served tours of duty as Chief of Officer Assignments and as Program Reviewer and Acquisition Funds Coordinator for Coast Guard major systems acquisitions, including the 225-foot buoy tenders and 87-foot coastal patrol boats. She broadened her experience as the Secretary of Transportation’s military assistant and years later as the Commandant’s executive assistant. She has served as Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard’s recruit training center in Cape May, New Jersey and as Director of Coast Guard Enterprise Strategic Management and Doctrine where she was responsible for aligning enterprise level strategic and management functions with the Commandant’s strategic intent. Rear Admiral Stosz graduated from the Coast Guard Academy in 1982 with a bachelor of science degree in Government. She was awarded a Master of Business Administration degree from Northwestern University’s J. L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management in 1994. In 2000 she completed an executive fellowship in national security through the MIT Seminar XXI program, and she earned a Master of National Security Strategy from the National War College in 2004. In 2009 she attended the Navy’s Executive Business Course at University of North Carolina’s Kenan-Flagler business school. Rear Admiral Stosz’s personal awards include three Legion of Merit Medals, four Meritorious Service Medals, two Coast Guard Commendation Medals and two Coast Guard Achievement Medals.
6
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
TIM FITZPATRICK DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS THIRD YEAR Tim Fitzpatrick just completed his second academic year as Director of Athletics at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and on his watch the USCGA’s athletic program has seen growth in several key areas. In addition to securing a comprehensive, five-year shoe and apparel agreement with adidas America for the academy’s 21 NCAA sports, has overseen a rebranding initiative that has resulted in new logos and marks and created an athletic booster organization (the U.S. Coast Guard Academy Bear Club). Under Fitzpatrick’s guidance, the department produced its first-ever women’s professional development seminar (the Women’s LeadHERship Symposium) for female USCGA athletic staff members as well as attendees from colleges and universities throughout New England, and has launched an external program for sale of corporate sponsorships and partnerships. Fitzpatrick was the Director of Athletics at Texas A&MCorpus Christi for two years prior to his arrival at USCGA, after spending the previous four years as the Deputy Athletic Director at Indiana University. At Texas A&M – Corpus Christi, Fitzpatrick secured major gifts for construction of a new outdoor tennis center, as well as renovation of the university’s baseball and softball stadiums. He additionally served on the NCAA’s Division I Women’s Basketball Issues Committee while in south Texas, and executed a strategic plan which increased the department’s corporate sponsorship revenue by nearly 40%.
Additionally, he negotiated a 6-year, $21,000,000 shoe and apparel agreement with adidas America and administered the Hoosiers’ multi-media partnerships with Learfield Sports and the Big Ten Network. During his tenure, Indiana realized a ticket sales revenue increase of 15-percent over annual budgeted projections. Fitzpatrick came to IU after spending the previous five years as COO and associate athletics director for external operations at the U.S. Military Academy. Fitzpatrick directed a fundraising effort that saw Army’s “A Club” donor base grow from 750 to 6,700 and annual giving grow from $500,000
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
He arrived at West Point from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, where he served as the associate athletics director for external affairs and executive director of the athletic foundation. Fitzpatrick’s work at Charlotte resulted in a 26-percent increase in annual gifts and a 39-percent increase in planned gifts. Prior to Army and Charlotte, Fitzpatrick served in a similar role at the University of Pittsburgh. In addition to serving as the men’s basketball sport administrator, he directed a staff that generated a school record $1.4 million in sponsorship revenue and a $125,000 increase in annual giving. Fitzpatrick was a senior associate athletics director at the University of North Texas from May 1994 to June 1996. He was instrumental in UNT’s transition from NCAA Division I-AA football to the Big West Conference, and during the 1994 football season, North Texas was one of three programs nationally to have every football game televised in its home market. This local television package generated more than $700,000 in corporate sponsorship revenue. He gained considerable experience as Assistant Commissioner of the Southwest Conference from 199294. Fitzpatrick negotiated a $2.25 million, three-year men’s basketball tournament title sponsorship with the Dr. Pepper Company, and he also oversaw the league’s national and local television syndication efforts. Fitzpatrick began his athletic administration career as the assistant marketing director at Army before moving on to Virginia Commonwealth as the director of marketing and Ticket Sales (1984-87) and Assistant Athletics Director for Marketing and Public Relations from 1987-92. A 1981 graduate of Hampden-Sydney College with a bachelor’s degree in English, Fitzpatrick earned his master’s degree in sports administration from Ohio University in 1982. Tim is married to Kerry Marks, and they have a son, James.
7
DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS
While at Indiana, he was responsible for internal administration of the department, oversaw capital construction and facilities management, and had oversight of the football, men’s basketball and women’s basketball programs. Additionally, Fitzpatrick managed IU’s external units, including marketing, ticket operations, licensing, merchandising, website, and publications.
to $1.8 million. He also cultivated the Army Sports Network from two radio stations to 18, including 50,000-watt ESPN 1050 in New York City. During his tenure at West Point, corporate sponsorship revenue jumped from $250,000 to $920,000 annually.
COAST GUARD ACADEMY NITCHMAN TRACK & FIELD COMPLEX The Track & Field Complex was constructed in the summer of 2007 first used for the men’s and women’s soccer games that Fall. The FieldTurf surface lies on the banks of the beautiful Thames River and is also home to the men’s and women’s track & field program.
COMMANDER JOHN MERRIMAN GYM Merriman Gymnasium is home to the women’s volleyball program and the men’s and women’s basketball programs. The gym holds three basketball courts used for varsity practices and games, as well as intramural competition. The 1200-seat facility has been home to numerous league and regional championships.
ROLAND POOL Roland Pool is home to our men’s and women’s swimming and diving program. The eight-lane, 50-yard pool is also used daily for athletic training programs for our cadet-athletes, physical education courses, as well as military training programs necessary to carry out the missions of the Coast Guard for all cadets.
8
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
NITCHMAN BASEBALL FIELD Nelson Nitchman Field is home of the Coast Guard Academy baseball team. The picturesque view from the field overlooks the Thames River.
NITCHMAN SOFTBALL FIELD Nelson Nitchman Field is home of the softball team. The Bears have enjoyed tremendous success winning three of the last four NEWMAC tournament championships and going to the NCAA tournament four straight seasons (20092012).
CADET MEMORIAL FIELD Cadet Memorial Field was made into a FieldTurf surface in 2004 as a gift from the Class of 1952. The facility features a twostory press box that includes two coaches rooms, a room for radio broadcasting and video recording, space for media personnel, and two lounge lounge areas for additional seating. The 1500seat stadium overlooks the Thames River and the Gold Star Memorial Bridge.
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
9
Coast Guard Athletics has two weight rooms, each featuring state-of-theart equipment for our cadets and cadet-athletes to use to improve their overall health and fitness. The facility in Roland Hall is dedicated to freeweight exercising while our Billard Hall facility holds our nautilus, cardio, and other guided machine equipment.
Joe Crozier
Strength and Conditioning Coach
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
Joe Crozier is in his second year as the head of the Strength and Conditioning Program with the Coast Guard Athletic Department. Crozier came to the Academy from California State University-Chico where he earned his bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology and his masters degree in kinesiology. Joe is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach with distinction through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and Certified Personal Trainer with the American College of Sports Medicine. Joe designs and implements workout regimens for all of our varsity sport programs. Working with teams both in-season and out-of-season, Joe’s focus is to better prepare athletes for competition by concentrating on sport-specific programs designed to achieve the ultimate level of success. Coast Guard’s strength and conditioning program is dedicated to ensure each cadet-athlete is equipped with the correct instruction, knowledge and guidance to reach their peak performance level and to decrease the potential for injuries. Our program also preaches the importance of a proper, nutritionally balanced diet as well as appropriate pre-game and post-game routines to ensure safe preparation, performance, and recuperation for each contest.
10
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
ADMINISTRATION Name Tim Fitzpatrick Dan Rose Tim Opstrup Chris Parsons Jason Southard Bill Mullins Art Lamoureux Andrea Stewart Katherine Bossardet Vi Oliver Joe Crozier Bruce Cobb Marc Grindstaff
Title Director of Athletics Associate AD/Director of Physical Education Assistant AD/Business Manager Assistant AD/Compliance Director of Media Relations Media Relations Assistant Director of Athletic Operations Senior Women’s Administrator Associate Office Manager Administrative Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach Head Equipment Manager Assistant Equipment Manager
Phone 860-444-8600 860-701-6798
860-444-8601 860-701-6799 860-444-8600 860-444-8580 860-444-8409 860-444-8608 860-444-8606
Title Head Athletic Trainer Assistant Athletic Trainer Assistant Athletic Trainer Assistant Athletic Trainer Assistant Athletic Trainer
Phone 860-444-8619 860-701-6618 860-701-6415 860-701-6416 860-701-6617
Title Head Coach Assistant Coach
Phone 860-444-8581 860-701-6132
860-444-8602 860-701-6197 860-701-6800
BASEBALL Name C.C. Grant Kevin Jaskiewicz
FOOTBALL Name Bill George Dana Fleischmann C.C. Grant Ray LaForte Jay Driscoll Pat Knowles CDR Darell Singleterry Don Miller
Title Head Coach Co-Defensive Coordinator/ Recruiting Coordinator Co-Defensive Coordinator Offensive Coordinator Defensive Line Tight Ends/Quality Control Defensive Assistant Running Backs
Phone 860-444-8584 860-444-8605
Title Head Coach Associate Head Coach
Phone 860-701-6132 860-444-8588
860-444-8581 860-701-6805
MEN’S CREW Title Head Coach Interim Men’s Head Coach
Phone 860-444-8679
MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY Name Ethan Brown Greg Ahnrud Mariette Ogg
Title Head Coach Assistant Coach Assistant Coach
Phone 860-444-8590
Title Head Coach Assistant Coach Goalkeeper Coach
Phone 860-701-6197
MEN’S SOCCER Name Chris Parsons Patrick McCarney Anthony Occhialini
Name Bryan Pape
Title Head Coach
Phone 860-444-8254
Title Director of Sailing Head Offshore Coach Head Intercollegiate Coach
Phone 860-444-8577 860-701-6291 860-444-8325
Title Head Coach Associate Head Coach Assistant Coach Pitching Coach
Phone 860-444-8604
Title Head Coach Assistant Coach Assistant Coach Faculty Representative
Phone 860-701-6594 860-701-6960
SAILING Name Doug Clark Jack Neades Brian Swingly
Title Head Coach Assistant Coach Diving Coach
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
Name Donna Koczajowski Amanda Illinger Dana Fleischmann Bill Mullins
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Name Alex Ivansheck Keyokah Mars-Garrick Colleen Hardison LCDR LuAnn Kehlenbach
860-444-8415
WOMEN’S CREW Name Jen Meuse Jodi Hope LT Vicky Futch
Title Phone Rowing Coordinator/Head Coach 860-444-8679 Assistant Coach Assistant Coach
WRESTLING Title Head Coach Assistant Coach
Phone 860-444-8587 860-701-6595
Title Head Coach Assistant Coach Assistant Coach Goalkeeper Coach
Phone 860-444-8582
WOMEN’S SOCCER Name Susan Grant Amanda Illinger LCDR Jess Rozzi-Ochs Anthony Occhialini
WOMEN’S SWIMMING & DIVING Name John Westkott Mary Westkott Kelly Mohr
Title Head Coach Assistant Coach Diving Coach
Phone 860-444-8586 860-701-6374
Title Head Coach Assistant Coach Assistant Coach Assistant Coach Assistant Coach
Phone 860-444-8589
WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL Name Aylene Ilkson Aaron Parker Peter Kazlas Christine Rostowfske Corinne Plummer
WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY
MEN’S SWIMMING & DIVING Name John Westkott Mary Westkott Kelly Mohr
Phone 860-464-6286
Phone 860-444-8586 860-701-6374
Name Ethan Brown Greg Ahnrud Mariette Ogg
Title Head Coach Assistant Coach Assistant Coach
Phone 860-444-8590
11
STAFF DIRECTORY
Name Colin Regan Mike Shugrue
Title Head Coach
RIFLE
Name Steve Eldridge Rob McKnabb
MEN’S BASKETBALL Name Kevin Jaskiewicz Bob Bono
Name Jim Hazlin
SOFTBALL
ATHLETIC TRAINING Name Ken Niedzwiecki Kevin Colasurdo Marina Dubrovsky Jake Ibey Shannon Nickels
MEN’S TENNIS
ETHAN BROWN HEAD COACH THIRD SEASON
ETHAN.E.BROWN@USCGA.EDU
Ethan Brown begins his third season as the head coach of men’s & women’s track & field, while he is in his fifth season directing the cross country programs. Coast Guard’s track & field and cross country teams are beginning to build momentum on the regional and national stage. Since taking over the helm of both cross country, the men’s and women’s cross country team placed as high as 15th and 13th respectively with Gary Ezzo (‘14) earning Regional Honors last year placing 24th. On the track and in the field, several athletes have gone on to represent Coast Guard at regional meets in both cross country and track & field, while 6 have earned All America honors including 4-time All-American in the hurdles, Adam Scalesse. Prior to becoming head coach at Coast Guard, Brown served as an Assistant Coach for Track & Field for two years, working primarily with Sprinters, Jumpers and Multi-Eventers, helping 32 athletes on to All-Region honors and Carl Luxhoj to earn AllAmerica honors three times in the long and triple jump. Prior to joining the staff at Coast Guard, Brown was an assistant coach for both cross country and track & field at Babson College from 2006-2008. While at Babson, Brown helped guide 16 athletes on to NCAA regional qualifiers and 17 track athletes to the ECAC Championships. Before arriving at Babson, Brown served as an assistant coach for the men’s track & field team at his alma matter, Springfield College from 2003-2005. During his time at Springfield, brown primarily worked with Sprints & Jumps where he coached several athletes to regional honors and 6 athletes to earn All-America honors in the 400 meters, 4x400, long jump, and high jump.
STAFF
In college, Brown was a standout at Springfield College where he was a two-time All-New England high jumper. In 2001, he qualified for the NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships where he finished 12th. He holds a Master’s of Education in Sports Management from Springfield College and professional certifications including; Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist from the NSCA and USA Track & Field (USATF) Level I and Level II (Jumps) certified coach.
12
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
GREG AHNRUD ASSISTANT COACH SECOND SEASON Greg Ahnrud is in his second season as a cross country and track and field assistant coach at the Coast Guard Academy. Ahnrud served as an assistant coach for both cross country and track & field at Rhode Island College from 2009-2012 where the women’s team set 18 individual records and five relay school records and the men’s team set 13 individual records and eight relay school records during his time at the school. The last two seasons, the RIC men’s outdoor track team had its best finishes at the New England Championships, placing 10th in 2011 and seventh last season of the over 50 schools competing. Ahnrud competed for the Rhode Island College cross country and track programs from 2006-08 after transferring in from Assumption College. During his time as an athlete at RIC, he served as a team captain and was a middle distance event specialist where he earned New England Alliance Conference honors several times. During the cross country season, he was one of their top runner’s at the conference and regional stages. Coach Ahnrud holds both a USATF Level 1 and Level 2 (distance) coaching certificate. His coaching background is also highlighted with experience in strength training and gait analysis.
RAY LAFORTE ASSISTANT COACH / HURDLES 15TH SEASON Ray is in his 15th season as a member of the Bears coaching staff. In track, LaForte works primarly with the hurdlers. In his 14 seasons, the hurdlers on both the men’s and women’s teams have set school records in various hurdling event. During the 2011/12 and 2012/13, Adam Scalesse earned All-America status in the 60 meter high hurdles during the indoor season and was an All-American in the 100 high hurdles in the outdoor season. Kyle Coleman was the NEWMAC champion in the 400 hurdles in 2008, 2009 and 2010 while Scalesse was the NEWMAC champion in that event in 2011. On the women’s side, LaForte has coached school record holder Sara Meserve (55 high hurdles) as well as NEWMAC champions Chanel Lee (100 high hurdles/2008) and Alaina Kiskadoon (400 hurdles/2010)
While at Ithaca, LaForte coached four first team All-America selections and the Bombers made a trip to the 1994 NCAA Semifinals and won two ECAC Championships (1996, 1998). In 1998, his punt return team led the NCAA in yards per return. LaForte was also an assistant lacrosse coach at Ithaca for five seasons. Prior to coaching at Ithaca, LaForte was a graduate assistant at East Carolina from 1991-1993. Ray, his wife Michelle and children Michael (13), Mason (11) and Madison (6) reside in Quaker Hill.
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
13
STAFF
LaForte a 25-year coaching veteran, spent five seasons as the Defensive Coordinator at Ithaca, sharing an office with current Coast Guard head coach Bill George.
KIM JOHNSON ASSISTANT COACH POLE VAULT Kim Johnson will serve as the Pole Vaulting Coach for the Coast Guard men’s and women’s track and field teams. She is a 2011 graduate of Southern Connecticut State University, earning a Bachelor’s of Exercise Science in Human Performance. While at Southern Connecticut, she was named a Division II All-American in the pole vault during the 2011 season. Prior to competing for the Owls she was a nine-time state champion in high school, becoming the first female athlete in the state of Connecticut to jump over 12 feet. While at the Coast Guard Academy, Kim has coached Ben Wolhaupter to All-American honors (8th, NCAA Division III Outdoor Championships) in the pole vault. She also led several post-season qualifiers in the pole vault, including Monet Masters, who broke the school record for both the indoor and outdoor pole vault.
STAFF
Johnson has been a coach at Skyjumpersct (a USATF Pole Vault Club in Southeastern Connecticut) and coached at the Skyjumpers summer camp in Pennsylvania since 2009.
14
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
BEN THUMA ASSISTANT COACH THROWS Ben Thuma is in his third season serving as a throwing coach for both the men’s and women’s indoor and outdoor track and field teams. Thuma is graduate of the University of Delaware where he was a four-year letterwinner in track and field. He began his coaching career in 1999, coaching at the John Powell Throwing Camp through 2005. He was also the throws coach for East Lyme (Conn.) High School from 2007 through 2011. While at Coast Guard he has led many throwers to qualify and as well as score in several post-season championship events. He coached Emily Trudeau to break the Academy’s indoor and outdoor shot put records. As well, he’s had a hand in coaching Will Baker (Coast Guard’s #2 discus thrower all-time) as well as Abby Bishop and Clay Kosack in the throwing events on their way to multi-event accolades and record setting performances.
ANDREA PARKER ASSISTANT COACH
Lieutenant Commander Parker currently serves as assistant professor of behavioral science at the US Coast Guard Academy. Currently, Ms. Parker is course coordinator for the Organizational Behavior & Leadership Course, a required course taken by cadets during the second year at the Academy. LCDR Parker also serves as faculty advisor to the Genesis Council, Coach of the Academy cheerleading squad and assistant coach for the Indoor & Outdoor track teams. Recently she was selected as the Academy’s Guide to Officer and Leader Development (GOLD) officer, responsible for the 200 week cadet leader development program for all 1000+ students. LCDR Parker is a 2001, civil engineering graduate of the US Coast Guard Academy and also holds a masters degree in engineering management from the University of New Orleans and masters of business administration from the University of Georgia.
Lieutenant Commander Parker’s decorations include two Coast Guard Commendation Medals, 9/11 medal and numerous unit awards and citations. In 2009, she was bestowed the US Department of Defense National African American History Month Meritorious Service Award and the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida, Big of the Year.
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
15
STAFF
Lieutenant Commander Parker’s assignments include a DWO tour on the Coast Guard Cutter TAHOMA, operations planning officer in the 8th Coast Guard District’s Office of Law Enforcement and Chief of the Enforcement Division, Sector Jacksonville.
CHRISTOPHER ARMSTRONG ASSISTANT COACH FIRST SEASON LCDR Armstrong, a 2001 graduate of the United States Coast Guard Academy, will serve as the Officer Representative for the men’s and women’s cross country team and as an assistant coach for the track and field teams.. While in High School, Armstrong ran cross country and track & feld where he specialized in distance events. At the Academy, he continued his running on both the cross country and track & field teams. After graduation, he headed to Coast Guard Cutter Bear from 2001 to 2003 where he was Student Engineer, Damage Control Assistant, and Assistant Engineer Officer. He was qualified Engineering Officer of the Watch, Deck Watch Officer, and Boarding Team Member. In 2003 he headed to the University of Rhode Island to pursue his Masters Degree. From 2005-2008, LCDR Armstrong headed to CG Headquarters where he was assigned as the C4IT Project Manager for the new National Security Cutters being constructed. He over saw the design and installation of over $300 million of equipment on each asset. In 2009 He fleeted up to the Deputy C4IT Acquisition Planner where he was responsible for outlining a $2.3 billion strategic acquisition plan for C4IT equipment on all CG assets over the next 20 years. In 2009, LCDR Armstrong reported to Electronic Systems Support Unit Miami (ESU) as the Operations Officer; overseeing 24/7 operational readiness of all C4IT equipment in the D7 Area of Responsibility. In 2011, LCDR Armstrong was fleeted up to be the Executive Officer of ESU Miami where he was responsible for executing a $2 million budget annually and overseeing 225 personnel. LCDR Armstrong reported CGA in the summer of 2013 where he currently teaches in the Electrical Engineering Section. He holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering and a Bachelor’s and Master’s Certificate in IT Project Management from The George Washington University School of Business. LCDR Armstrong is a 2008 Copernicus Award Recipient from the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA).
PATTY OLSON ASSISTANT COACH JUMPS Patty Olson is in her third season coaching at Coast Guard and will be coaching the jumping events this season. Olson is a 2009 graduate of the Coast Guard Academy with a degree in Civil Engineering. While at the Academy, Olson was a four-year member of both the indoor and outdoor track and field teams. She participated in the triple jump as well as the high jump, qualifying for the Division III Championships in the high jump one year and also served as a team captain as a senior.
STAFF
During her first tour after graduation, she served as a Deck Watch Officer aboard the CGC BOUTWELL in Alameda, Ca.. She is currently in her second tour, serving as Construction Project Manager at the Coast Guard Academy.
16
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
CHRIS BONNER ASSISTANT COACH THROWS Chris Bonner serves as a Nautical Science Instructor and Throws Coach at the Coast Guard Academy, where he coaches the hammer, discus, and shut put throwing events. He graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in 2007. While a cadet, he competed as a thrower for the track and field team for all four years of his collegiate career. Coach Bonner has also participated as an athlete at the Scottish Highland Games.
JAKE IBEY ATHLETIC TRAINER SECOND SEASON Jake is in his second season as an assistant athletic trainer at the Coast Guard Academy. He has been an athletic trainer for eight years. Jake graduated from the University of New England with a bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training. He then graduated with his master’s degree in Exercise Science with a concentration in Advanced Rehabilitation. Before working at the Coast Guard Academy, he worked in many different high schools all over the state of Connecticut. Jake lives in Windsor, Conn. with his wife and two children.
STAFF
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
17
THOMAS BONDURANT SENIOR - THROWS RICHMOND, VA. Thomas looks to build off a season which culminated in a third place finish in the hammer throw at the NEWMAC Championships . He is the son of Gary and Hollis Bondurant and is majoring in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. He is a member of the Dean’s List. BEFORE CGA Bondurant was a two-sport athlete at Douglas Southall Freeman (Va.) High as a football player for Bob Brinkley and a track athlete ... has an older brother, Allen (25). GETTING TO KNOW THOMAS Thomas’ favorite TV show is Top Gear (U.K.) and he lists his favorite movie as Super Troopers. His favorite place to visit is Emerald Isle, N.C. and he lists Mike Ditka as the greatest coach to ever live. If he could meet anyone, living or deceased, it would be President Theodore Roosevelt.
GARY EZZO SENIOR - DISTANCE ARMADA, MICH.
ATHLETE BIOS
Gary is coming off a tremendous fall season in which he was named to each the All-NEWMAC, All-ECAC, and All-New England cross country teams. During the track season he’ll be looking to build off that success and provide the Bears with leadership in the distance events. He is a member of the Dean’s List, majoring in Electrical Engineering and is the son of Mark and Vicki Ezzo. BEFORE CGA Ezzo was a three-sport athlete at Armada (Mich.) High and Macomb Academy of Arts and Science, participating in cross conutry, track, and bowling ... named All-State in cross country, County Champion in 3,200 meter run, and BWAC Bowling Champion ... two-year captain in both bowling and cross country ... has one brother, Greg (23), and one sister, Charlotte (23). GETTING TO KNOW GARY Gary’s favorite pro sports team is the Detroit Red Wings and his favorite book is Siddhartha. His favorite place to visit is Florence Italy and he believes the Cadet Wardroom has the best pizza. If he could meet anyone, living or deceased, it would be Leonardo Da Vinci.
18
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
CLAY KOSACK SENIOR - MULTI-EVENT BRENTWOOD, TENN.
Clay is coming off a year in which he qualified for the National Championships in the decathlon and placed 13th at the event. He is the son of Kurt and Linda Kosack and is majoring in Civil Engineering. BEFORE CGA Kosack was a two-time state champion at Brentwood (Tenn.) High School for coach Gary Kinder where he was an honor roll student .... has one brother, Connor. GETTING TO KNOW CLAY Clay’s favorite actor is Will Ferrell and his favorite place to visit is Chicago. His snack food of choice is a Nature Valley Sweet and Salty Peanut Butter Bard and he considers Pat Summit the greatest coach to ever live. If he could meet anyone, living or deceased, it would be Bobby Knight.
JORDAN LEE SENIOR - DISTANCE SAN LEANDRO, CA. Jordan is looking to build upon a solid fall season to help the Bears in mid-distance and distance events during the track season. While at the Academy, he was part of the relay team that claimed All-ECAC honors in the 4x800. He is the son of Kevin and Pauline Lee and is majoring in Electrical Engineering.
GETTING TO KNOW JORDAN Jordan’s favorite athlete is the Kenyan-born Danish middle-distance runner Wilson Kipketer. His most-used smart phone app is message and he believes that New York has the best pizza. His favorite place to visit is Hawaii.
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
19
ATHLETE BIOS
BEFORE CGA Lee ran cross country for Coach Stephen Lim at Chinese Christian Schools (Calif.) where he was selected to the NCS AllConference team as a senior.
BRAD PIENTA SENIOR - DISTANCE TROY, MICH. Brad, a distance runner, is coming off a strong fall season and hopes to keep that going into the indoor and outdoor track seasons. The son of Dan and Sue Pienta, Brad’s been a member of the Dean’s List every semester at the Academy and is majoring in Naval Architecture and Engineering. BEFORE CGA Pienta was an accomplished athlete at Troy (Mich.) High School winning All-Region accolades in cross country and track (1 Mile) ... he was a member of the Michigan Indoor Distance Medley Relay State Championship team while being named a Nike Indoor All-American in the same event as well as the 4x1 mile relay ... has a younger brother, Matthew (16). GETTING TO KNOW BRAD Brad’s favorite book is Only in America (by John Mirrassou) and favorite college team other than Coast Guard is the University of Michigan. His favorite place to visit is the British Virgin Islands and his favorite restaurant is Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough. If he could meet anyone, living or deceased, it would be President John F. Kennedy.
ADAM SCALESSE SENIOR - HURDLES LONGVIEW, WASH.
ATHLETE BIOS
Adam is a four-time All-American in the hurdles and is looking to extend his streak of being named an All-American in the last four seasons (2 indoor, 2 outdoor). He has been named to the Dean’s List in six of his seven semesters at the Academy. He is the son of Vinny and Kathy Scalesse and is majoring in Civil Engineering. BEFORE CGA Scalessee was a three-sport athlete at Kelso (Wash.) High School, competing in golf, basketball, and track and field ... he was a team captain in all three sports and made it to the state competition in golf while winning a state track and field championship as a junior ... has an older sister, Sarah (25). GETTING TO KNOW ADAM Adam’s favorite TV show is NCIS and his favorite professional athlete is Tiger Woods. He enjoys spending time on nice golf courses and his favorite college team, other than Coast Guard, is Gonzaga. He considers Mike Krzyzewski to be the greatest coach to ever live.
20
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
BEN WOLHAUPTER SENIOR - POLE VAULT AGOURA HILLS, CA. Ben finished 8th in the pole vault at last year’s National Championships to earn All-American and All-New England (2nd place all-division, Division III Champion) for the first time in his career. He has been named to the Board of Trustees, Dean’s, Commandant’s, and the Athletic Director’s Lists while at the Academy. His is the son of Charles and Susan Wolhaupter and is majoring in Civil Engineering. BEFORE CGA Wolhaupter was a three-sport athlete at Agoura (Calif.) High School competing in cross country, track and field, and wrestling ... he was a team captain in all three sports as a senior ... has an older brother, Joey (25) and two older sisters, Nicky (29) and Pam (26). GETTING TO KNOW BEN Ben’s favorite athletes are Clayton Kershaw and pole vaulter Brad Walker. He considers Kim Johnson to be the greatest coach to ever live and his favorite book is the Caine Mutiny. If he could meet any one, living or deceased, it would be Jonathan Goldsmith (The Man from the Dos Equis commercials).
JAMES DAWKINS JUNIOR - SPRINTS DOYLESTOWN, PA. James placed seventh at last year’s NEWMAC Championships in the 100 meter dash and hopes to build upon that to earn an All-Conference selection this season. Throughout his Coast Guard career he has been a member of the Dean’s List as a management major. He is the son of Lee and Sue Dawkins.
GETTING TO KNOW JAMES James lists his favorite movie as the Shawshank Redemption and if he had his choice of stadiums to visit, he would choose Fenway Park. His favorite athlete is American sprinter Michael Johnson while his most used smart phone app is Chrome. If he could meet anyone, living or deceased, it would be President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
21
ATHLETE BIOS
BEFORE CGA Dawkins was a two-sport athlete at Central Bucks East (Pa.) High, competing in both track and football ... he was a high honors graduate and captain of his high school track team as a senior ... has one sister, Annie.
BEN HANNON JUNIOR - SPRINTS ANNAPOLIS, MD. Ben, a sprinter, is coming off a breakout season this past year in which he was named All-New England. He’s the son of Rob and Linda Hannon and is majoring in Electrical Engineering. While at the Academy he has been named to both the Dean’s List and Commandant of Cadet’s List. BEFORE CGA Hannon ran track for coach Brianna Kelly at Broadneck (Md.) High School where he served as a team captain as a senior ... he’s an Eagle Scout and was a two-time team MVP in high school ... has a younger brother, David (18). GETTING TO KNOW BEN Ben’s favorite actor is Will Ferrell while his favorite movie is Despicable Me. His favorite professional sports team is the Baltimore Ravens and his favorite place to visit is Canada. If he could meet anyone, living or deceased, it would be President Abraham Lincoln.
JAMES MARTIN
ATHLETE BIOS
JUNIOR - DISTANCE HOBE SOUND, FLA. James is looking for build off a solid fall cross country season and continue to improve in both the indoor and outdoor track and field seasons. A Naval Architecture and Engineering major, he is the son of Patrick and Elizabeth Martin. BEFORE CGA Martin competed in cross country and track at South Fork (Fla.) High School for coach Bonnie Gladys ... he was a three-time National Science Fair finalist in high school ... has a younger sister, Maggie (17). GETTING TO KNOW JAMES James’ favorite singer is Kanye West and his favorite song is Bound 2. His favorite book is A Land Remembered and the most used application on his smart phone is his texting app. His favorite place to visit is home.
22
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
KELCEY SMITH JUNIOR - SPRINTS KEENE, N.H.
FREDERICK HIGGINS SOPHOMORE - SPRINTS DIAMOND BAR, CA. Frederick had a strong season as a freshman a year ago, capped off by a fifth place finish in the 400 meter at the NEWMAC Championshpis. A mechanical engineering major, he is the son of Darla Higgins.
GETTING TO KNOW FREDERICK Frederick’s favorite actor is Gary Coleman while he lists American Pie as his favorite movie. His favorite professional sports team is the Green Bay Packers and if he had his choice of statiums to visit, he would choose Lambeau Field. He lists Get No Better, by Clear Soul Forces, as his favorite song.
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
23
ATHLETE BIOS
BEFORE CGA Higgins was a two-sport athelete at Diamond Ranch (Calif.) High School, competing in both track and field and football ... has two older sisters, Rachel (24) and Sarah (23).
2013 RESULTS --- Third Place at NEWMAC Championship Date Jan 12 Jan 19 Jan 26 Feb 1-2 Feb 15-16 Feb 22-23 Mar 1-2 Mar 8-9 Mar 23 Mar 30 Apr 6 Apr 13 Apr 17-18 Apr 20 Apr 27 May 2-4 May 10-11 May 16-17 May 23-25
Opponent Result CGA WINTER INIVITATIONAL #1 2nd place CGA WINTER INVITATIONAL #2 1st place @ Springfield College Invitational 5th place @ Tufts Multi-Event 9th place @ Division III New England Indoor Championships @ Bates 9th place @ All-New England Championships @ Boston U. 31st place @ ECAC Championships @ New York Armory 17th place @ NCAA Championships @ Naperville, Ill. 21st place @ Connecticut College Invitational 2nd place CGA SPRING INVITATIONAL 2nd place @ UMass Dartmouth Invitational 3rd place @ Springfield College w/ WPI 2nd place @ Holy Cross Decathlon Individuals @ Silfen Invitational @ Conn. College 2nd place @ NEWMAC Championships @ Springfield 3rd place @ Division III New England Outdoor Championships @ Colby 5th place @ All-New England Championships @ Stonehill 11th place @ ECAC Championships @ Springfield 14th place @ NCAA Championships @ Wisconsin La Crosse 37th place
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD HISTORY
REVIEW & HISTORY
All-Americans Greg Magee Dennis Boblayer Mike Moore Thad Silwinski Thad Silwinski Kevin Crawley Brian Poskaitis Wayne Brown Brian Poskaitis Joe Crouse Delano Adams Kevin Wirth Drew Orsinger Drew Orsinger Drew Orsinger Blake Novak Drew Orsinger Drew Orsinger Josh Fant
1969 - 120-yd HH 1971 - 880 yds 1975 - High Jump 1981 - Javelin 1982 - Javelin 1983 - Steeplechase 1984 - Hammer 1984 - Javelin 1985 - Hammer 1987 - Javelin 1989 - 400m (Indoor) 1992 - 800m (Indoor) 1993 - Pole Vault 1994 - Pole Vault (Indoor) 1995 - Pole Vault (Indoor) 1995 - 55m HH (Indoor) 1995 - Pole Vault 1996 - Pole Vault (Indoor) 1998 - High Jump (Indoor)
Jeff Rasnake Chris Weber Tom Crowley Mike Flint Mike Flint Mike Flint Steve Blum Mike Flint Chris Hunt Carl Luxhoj Carl Luxhoj Carl Luxhoj Adam Scalesse Adam Scalesse Trevor Siperek Adam Scalesse Adam Scalesse Ben Wolhaupter
1998 - 3000 Steeplechase 1999 -Javelin 2004 -Javelin 2006 -Mile (Indoor) 2006 - 1,500m 2007 -Mile (Indoor) 2007 - Javelin 2007 - 1,500m 2008 - 35 lb weight (Indoor) 2009 - Long Jump 2011 - Triple Jump 2011 - Triple Jump (Indoor) 2012 - 60m hurdles (Indoor) 2012 - 110m Hurdles 2012 - 3000 Steeplechase 2013 - 60m Hurdles (Indoor) 2013 - 110m Hurdles 2013 - Pole Vault
* Athletes in BOLD won National Championships
24
2014 ONLINE GUIDE
2014 SCHEDULE January 18
CGA Winter Invitational
January 25
@ Bowdoin Invitational
January 31-February 1 @ Tufts Multi-Event February 8
@ Dave Hemery Invitational @ Boston U.
February 8
@ MIT Invitational
February 15
@ Tufts Cupid Challenge
February 21-22
@ Division III New England Indoor Championships
February 28-March 1
@ All-New England Championships @ Boston U.
March 7-8
@ ECAC Championships @ Reggies Lewis Ctr.
March 14-15
@ NCAA Championships @ U. of Nebraska
March 22
@ Westfield State Invitational
March 29
CGA Spring Invitational
April 5
@ AIC Yellow Jacket Invitational
April 12
Coast Guard Tri-Meet with WPI & Springfield
April 16-17
@ Holy Cross Decathlon
April 19
@ Springfield College Invitational
April 26
@ NEWMAC Championships @ Mt. Holyoke
May 1-3
@ Division III New England Outdoor Championships
May 9-10
@ All New England Championships @ Westfield St.
May 15-16
@ ECAC Championships @ RPI
May 22-24
@ NCAA Championships @ Ohio Wesleyan
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
25