2022-23 Cleveland State Athletics Annual Report

2022-23 ANNUAL REPORT

CLEVELAND STATE ATHLETICS

Viking Family,

It is such an honor to present our 2022-23 Cleveland State University Athletics annual report to CSU alumni, supporters, fans, and all Vikings across Northeast Ohio and beyond!

We are proud of what was perhaps the most successful year in the history of CSU Athletics. Our 365+ student-athletes recorded so many all-time achievements, including a 33rd straight semester with over a 3.0 cumulative GPA, all-time high honorees on both sport and academic all-conference teams, and a number of championship athletic performances creating opportunities for CSU to compete on a national stage.

Your support through increased event attendance, engagement with Viking teams and studentathletes across social media, and all-time high donations to CSU Athletics through team fundraisers, facility campaigns, Giving Day, and Viking Fund memberships allowed our coaches and staff to deliver a transformational student-athlete experience in so many ways.

As we put a bow on an amazing year, we look forward to your continued loyalty and support as we embark on the opportunity to log an even better year in 2023-24!

Thank you and Go Vikes!

Cleveland State Vice President and Director of Athletics

DEPARTMENT HIGHLIGHTS

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS

Cleveland State has now recorded a department GPA of 3.00 or higher for 33 straight semesters following 2022-23, combining for 383 Dean’s List honors and 73 President’s List honors on the year.

Seventy-three Cleveland State student-athletes received their degrees during the 2022-23 academic year, including 48 of whom that graduated with honors; 10 Cum Laude, 16 Magna Cum Laude and 22 Summa Cum Laude. Eight of this year’s student-athlete graduates were also members of the Jack, Joseph & Morton Mandel Honors College.

3.46 Cumulative GPA

88% Graduation Success Rate

253 Student-Athletes with 3.25+ GPA

CLEVELAND STATE AWARDED NCAA AASP GRANT

In September 2022, the Cleveland State Athletic Department was announced as one of 13 NCAA Division I schools to be awarded the Accelerated Academic Success Program (AASP) Grant, receiving $100,000 from the NCAA to help boost academic programming and initiatives. The AASP was established in 2012 by the NCAA Executive Committee to ensure a campus environment that supports education and raises the academic success level.

Cleveland State is slated to use the NCAA grant in conjunction with funds raised from the Woodling Gymnasium Enhancement Initiative to help fund technology and facility enhancements for the Athletics Academic Center in the Physical Education Building and Wolstein Center.

HORIZON LEAGUE POSTSEASON HOSTING

For the first time in program history Cleveland State hosted the Horizon League Men’s Soccer Tournament, while both the men’s and women’s basketball teams hosted early round games in the Horizon League Tournament for the third straight year. Combined, the Vikings welcomed over 3,300 fans to campus for all three postseason events.

Cleveland State finished the 2022-23 academic year with a perfect 4-0 record in home Horizon League postseason contests, including a 3-0 victory from men’s soccer in the 2022 #HLMSOC Championship match at Krenzler Field.

VIKINGS FINISH THIRD IN HORIZON LEAGUE McCAFFERTY STANDINGS

Cleveland State once again continued its success in the Horizon League - the Vikings’ primary athletic conference - finishing third in the 2022-23 McCafferty Trophy standings (league-wide all-sports trophy). In addition, Cleveland State finished second in the Men’s All-Sports Trophy standings for the third straight year. The Vikings captured tournament championships in men’s soccer and women’s basketball, earned regular season titles in men’s soccer and men’s tennis (North Division), while also advancing to the championship contests in men’s basketball and women’s tennis.

Overall for the year, the Vikings combined for 70+ Horizon League victories and 13 tournament appearances.

DEPARTMENT HIGHLIGHTS

OPENDORSE & VIKING VENTURES

Cleveland State Athletics partnered with Opendorse - the leading technology provider in the athlete endorsement industry - through a league-wide intitiative, and then Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) platform for Viking

Through Viking Ventures, Cleveland State student-athletes are able to create unique interests, talents and products, and then engage in promotional and related branding opportunities with Viking fans, local and national sponsors, and donors in pursuit of Name, Image and Likeness opportunities.

In Fall 2022, Cleveland State Athletics announced a new partnership with Teamworks, a premier engagement platform designed to streamline and unify athletic department operations. Through ‘Teamworks Hub’, the athletic department has been able to provide student-athletes, coaches and staff with a centralized platform and app to streamline organizational workflows, increase communication and collaborate and enhance engagement efforts through the sharing of information, announcements and resources across teams and departments.

ASPIRE

During the 2022-23 academic year Cleveland State Athletics agreed to a multi-year extension with The Aspire Group - the Vikings’ long-standing ticket sales and service partner. Since arriving on-site in 2017, Aspire’s Fan Relationship Management Center has provided innovative marketing, insightful analytics and industry-leading customer service, while maximizing ticket and donation revenue. In fiscal year 2023, the Cleveland State FRMC posted its fastest ever revenue generation pace.

AFFINITY LICENSING

In July 2023, Cleveland State officially transitioned licensing partners, as the Vikings are now working with Affinity Licensing for brand management, royalty reporting and vendor cultivation. With more than 100 years of expertise, Affinity services over 35 collegiate partners, allowing for an innovative and personalized full-service approach to brand management and licensed merchandise revenue generation growth.

VIKING ADDITIONS MILESTONES

DANIYAL ROBINSON SETS FIRST-YEAR COACHING RECORD

In his first season at Cleveland State, Daniyal Robinson guided the men’s basketball team to a 21-14 campaign, setting a program record for wins by a first year head coach. During Robinson’s inaugural season the Vikings advanced to the championship game of the Horizon League Tournament and earned a postseason bid to the CBI, helping Robinson earn nominations for the Joe B. Hall award and Ben Jobe National Coach of the Year award. Robinson’s first head coaching victory of his career came on November 16, 2022, when the Vikings earned a 58-57 overtime win at Canisius.

SINISA UBIPARIPOVIC NAMED #HLMSOC COACH OF THE YEAR

After guiding the men’s soccer team to a Regular Season Championship and Tournament Title during the 2022 campaign, Sinisa Ubiparipovic was named the Horizon League Coach of the Year. Ubiparipovic, who finished his fourth season with the Vikings last fall, helped Cleveland State earn its 10th trip to the NCAA Tournament.

Ubiparipovic is the third Viking to earn #HLMSOC Coach of the Year honors, and the first since 2012.

ANDY GERMAN LEADS LACROSSE TO FIRST ASUN WIN

On March 18, 2023 Andy German led the Cleveland State lacrosse team to its first-ever ASUN victory, as the Vikings picked up a 14-12 win against Lindenwood. In just its sixth year as a program at Cleveland State, 2023 marked the second year of ASUN competition for the Vikings.

2022-23 NEW HIRES

Domenic Abounader ................................................................. Assistant Coach, Wrestling

Kristina Artino Assistant AD, Academic Services

Toni DeSanto......................................................... Assistant Coach, Men’s & Women’s Golf

Don Gromala .................................................................................. Assistant Coach, Volleyball

Curt Johnsen..................................................... Director of Basketball Sports Performance

Kwanza Johnson ............................................................... Assistant Coach, Men’s Basketball

Matt Kearney .......................................................................... Assistant AD, Communications

Chalmers McGillivray .........................Assistant Coach, Men’s & Women’s Swim & Dive

Sydney Wysmierski ........................................................................ Assistant Athletic Trainer

Hanna Zerr.............................. Special Assistant to the Head Coach, Women’s Basketball

CHRIS KIELSMEIER RECORDS 500TH CAREER VICTORY

On January 26, 2023 women’s basketball head coach Chris Kielsmeier recorded the 500th victory of his coaching career, helping the Vikings post a 107-65 victory at Detroit Mercy. Kielsmeier finished the 2022-23 campaign with 512 career wins over his 23-year coaching tenure, including 96 victories during five years at Cleveland State.

In addition, Kielsmeier also earned 179 wins during eight seasons at Howard Payne University and 237 wins during 10 years at Wayne State College. Following the 2022-23 campaign, Kielsmeier received a contract extension, keeping him with the Vikings through the 2027-28 season.

BRIAN ETZKIN REACHES 300 CAREER MEN’S WINS

On February 24, 2023 men’s tennis head coach Brian Etzkin recorded his 300th victory with the men’s team, earning the milestone win in a 4-2 decision over Eastern Kentucky. Etzkin finished the 2022-23 season with 309 total wins with the men’s team over a 21-year stretch.

In addition, Etzkin also combined for 211 wins with the Cleveland State women’s tennis team (2002-18), giving him over 500 total victories during his time as a Viking.

THROUGH COMPETITION Champions

2022-23 LEAGUE MAJOR AWARD WINNERS

Sabrina Coffman // Horizon League Player of the Year .............................

Bojan Kolevski // Horizon League Player & Offensive Player of the Year....

Destiny Leo // Horizon League Player of the Year..............................

Women’s Golf

Men’s Soccer

Women’s Basketball

Maxime Mareschal-Hay // Horizon League Player of the Year ...................

Men’s Tennis

Gannon Matthews // ASUN Midfielder of the Year ...............................................Lacrosse

Sinisa Ubiparipovic // Horizon League Coach of the Year .........................

Oihane Vicario // Horizon League Player of the Year ...............................

Men’s Soccer

Women’s Tennis

Laken Voss // Horizon League Freshman of the Year ............................................ Volleyball

Deja Williams // Horizon League Sixth Player of the Year ...............

Bethany Yauch // Horizon League Sportsmanship Honoree

Women’s Basketball

Women’s Tennis

2022-23 FIRST TEAM ALL-LEAGUE HONOREES

Sabrina Coffman .................................................................................................

Women’s Golf

Jenna Deang ....................................................................................................................... Softball

Tristan Enaruna

Men’s Basketball

Pablo Kawecki ........................................................................................................

Bojan Kolevski ........................................................................................................

Destiny Leo .................................................................................................

Men’s Soccer

Men’s Soccer

Women’s Basketball

Maxime Mareschal-Hay .......................................................................................

Men’s Tennis

Gannon Matthews Lacrosse

Jannis Schmidt .......................................................................................................

Oihane Vicario ..................................................................................................

Men’s Soccer

Women’s Tennis

Jenna Watts ........................................................................................................................ Softball

2022-23 INDIVIDUAL LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

Sabrina Coffman .................................................................................................

Jackson Nester (400 IM) ..........................................................................

Women’s Golf

Men’s Swim & Dive

Ruben Lipins (Super Smash Brothers) ......................................................................... esports

Rocket League (Gabe Puto, Matt Boukzam, Logan McClain) ................................. esports

2022-23 POSTSEASON APPEARANCES

Men’s Soccer ................................................................................................

Women’s Basketball ................................................................................

NCAA First Round

NCAA First Round

Men’s Basketball ..............................................................................................

Sabrina Coffman ............................................................................................

CBI First Round

NCAA Regionals

HORIZON LEAGUE

MEN’S SOCCER

Champions

Cleveland State claimed its first-ever Horizon League Regular Season Championship after going 5-1-3 in league play. The Vikings went on to win their second Horizon League Tournament Championship and make their 10th appearance in the NCAA Tournament after beating IUPUI on Krenzler Field, 3-0 in the title contest.

For their efforts throughout the year, Sinisa Ubiparipovic was named the #HLMSOC Coach of the Year for the first time, Bojan Kolevski was named the Player of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year, while the Vikings had five All-League members with three on the first team; Kolevski, Pablo Kawecki, Jannis Schmidt, and two on the second team; Hector Gomez and Uros Jevtic. In addition, Schmidt, Kawecki, Kolevski, and Albert Portas were named Academic All-League.

FALL SPORTS

WOMEN’S SOCCER

The Vikings totaled seven wins on the year with four of those coming in Horizon League play. The Green and White went unbeaten in their final three games, led by all-league honorees Kathryn Ramicone and Rylee Bussen (Second Team) and Eleanor Simkonis (All-Freshman).

At the end of the 2022 campaign, Lina Feltovich and Maddie Young earned a spot on the #HLWSOC All-Academic team.

VOLLEYBALL

Cleveland State returned to the Horizon League Tournament for the first time in four years, advancing to the semifinals under 23-year head coach Chuck Voss after winning seven of their last 10 regular season matches. Throughout the season, the Vikings were led by Horizon League Freshman of the Year Laken Voss and All-League Honorees Lydia Latimer, Karly Klaer and Madison Olinger, while Latimer, Audrey McConihe and Sarah DeGeorge were named All-Academic.

Voss finished her rookie campaign with a CSU freshman class record 389 total kills, while McConihe graduated as one of the top passers in program history, ranking ninth all-time with 1,183 career digs.

CROSS COUNTRY

During the 2022 campaign the Vikings recorded 12 top-20 individual performances, including a pair of top-five showings at the Tommy Titan Invitational from Hannah Korte (2nd) and Ariana Coats (5th).

Throughout the year, Coats, Korte and Kiannah Sarver all notched career-best times on the 5K course, as Korte was Cleveland State’s top finisher during five races and Sarver was the first Viking to cross the finish line once. Following the 2022 campaign, Korte was named to the All-Academic team for the second straight season.

ESPORTS

Cleveland State kicked off its inaugural season of esports during Fall 2022, competing in Overwatch, Valorant, Smash Brothers Ultimate, Rocket League, and League of Legends throughout the season.

The Vikings, who called the Cavs Legion Lair home during the 2022-23 academic year, capped off their first season with a team national championship in Rocket League, while Ruben Lipins posted an outstanding 18-0 regular season record and captured a pair of Northeast Regional Super Smash titles.

HORIZON LEAGUE

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Champions

Cleveland State captured its third Horizon League Tournament Title during the 2022-23 campaign, earning its third appearance in the NCAA Tournament. During the season, the Vikings set a program record with 30 wins – including a program-best 16-game win streak. In addition, the Vikings set single-season records for total points, free throws made, total rebounds, rebounding margin, and blocked shots.

For their efforts throughout the year, Destiny Leo was named the #HLWBB Player of the Year, Deja Williams was named the #HLWBB Sixth Player of the Year, while the Vikings had an additional trio of All-League members in Brittni Moore, Amele Ngwafang and Jordana Reisma, with Leo also earning All-Academic accolades.

WINTER SPORTS

MEN’S SWIM & DIVE

The Vikings sophomore Jackson Nester led Cleveland State at the Horizon League Championships, winning the 400-yard IM with a time of 3:48.34. Nester has won this event in consecutive years while also improving his school record time, which he set at the championships last season with a 3:49.42.

Cleveland State finished third at the #HLSD championships, turning in nine podium finishes. Paddy Johnston registered three runner-up finishes (100 Fly, 100 Back, and 200 Fly), while Nester recorded two (400 IM, 200 Back), and Nathen Eberhardt added one (200 Free). For their work in the classroom, Nester and Griffin Manning were named All-Academic.

WOMEN’S SWIM & DIVE

The Vikings turned in a strong year, winning three straight dual races, which was the most consecutive victories under head coach Hannah Burandt.

At the 2023 Horizon League Championships, the Green and White finished fifth, led by a pair of runner-up finishes from Ana Sofia Sousa in the 100 and 200-yard freestyle races. Following the season, Sousa and Rachel Contich earned a spot on the Horizon League All-Academic team.

TRACK & FIELD

Throughout the 2022-23 season, Cleveland State recorded five individual event wins, with two coming during the indoor campaign and three coming during the outdoor season. Ana Crangle picked up two of these event wins, while Dynesty Ervin, Madelynn Madison and Savannah Shaver accounted for the other three.

During the outdoor campaign the Vikings recorded multiple podium finishes at the Horizon League Championships, including Karly Klaer notching a sixth place finish in the Shot Put, Ana Crangle finishing seventh in the 3000 Meter Steeplechase and Ervin placing eighth in the 400 Meter Dash. Hannah Korte and Ariana Coats were named All- Academic following both the indoor and outdoor campaigns.

WRESTLING

Cleveland State had a program-best seven placers at the 2023 MAC Championships with six of those finishes coming in the top six, the most of any school. DeAndre Nassar led the way with the best finish, placing third at 184 pounds.

Senior, Marcus Robinson was ranked in the NCAA throughout the entire season and graduated as a three-time MAC placer and two-time NCAA qualifier. Following the season, the Vikings had a MAC-high 13 honorees on the All-Academic team.

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Cleveland State continued its recent success under first-year head coach Daniyal Robinson in 2022-23. The Vikings won 21 games, marking the third consecutive season the program has won 20 or more games, and the best first-year mark for any head coach in Cleveland State history. CSU finished third in the Horizon League regular season standings and runner-up in the Horizon League Tournament.

Individually, three Vikings were named All-League; Tristan Enaruna was named to the First Team and Deante Johnson and Deshon Parker were named to the All-Defensive team. Johnson earned All-Defensive team honors for the third straight season. Parker was also named to the All-Academic team.

MEN’S & WOMEN’S FENCING

The Cleveland State men’s fencing team had a successful 2022-23 season, finishing 2-2 at the Central Collegiate Fencing Championships. Cleveland State placed second in saber and third in foil and epee at the championships. Individually, five Vikings earned All-Conference recognition; De’Mario Steele and Merik Pohl in Epee, Paul DiVenti and Conner Shepherd in Foil and Mason Moskowitz in Saber. In addition, ten individuals qualified for the 2023 NCAA Regionals.

The Cleveland State women’s fencing team collected two victories in the Central Collegiate Fencing Conference Championship and qualified eight individuals for NCAA Regionals. Individually, Lily Robertson, Gabi Hirsch and Ilyssa Freiburger were named All-Conference.

SPRING SPORTS

Cleveland State capped off a great 2022-23 season by finishing third at the Horizon League Championships, while the Vikings were one of two schools with multiple student-athletes named to the #HLGOLF All-Academic Team (Sabrina Coffman & Lexi Knight).

Sabrina Coffman had an incredible finish to her collegiate career, winning the first-ever Horizon League individual title in program history. She won the tournament with a 4-over par total and qualified for the 2023 NCAA Regionals. She finished the season with four top-five finishes including two tournament wins and was named the Horizon League Player of the Year.

WOMEN’S TENNIS

The Vikings finished the 2023 spring campaign with a 15-8 overall record and earned a spot in the #HLTennis Championship match for the first time in three years. Included in Cleveland State’s 15 wins was a six-match win streak, marking the third straight season that the Vikings tallied six or more consecutive dual match victories.

Throughout the season the Vikings were led by Horizon League Player of the Year Oihane Vicario, Horizon League Sportsmanship Award recipient Bethany Yauch, and All-League honorees Sima Heren and Tereze Vevere. In addition, Yauch also earned a spot on the #HLTennis All-Academic team.

WOMEN’S GOLF

SPRING SPORTS

MEN’S TENNIS

Cleveland State capped off the 2022-23 campaign by posting a record of 19-8, tying the mark for most wins in a single-season over the last 14 years. The Vikings combined for a 10-1 record at the Medical Mutual Tennis Pavilion, posting double-digit wins at home for the first time since 2018.

Individually, Maxime Mareschal-Hay was named the Horizon League Player of the Year and earned a spot on the All-Academic team, and Mikael Erler and Raul Teichmann both picked up All-League accolades, while the trio of Mareschal-Hay, Teichmann and Kade Mindry all eclipsed the 50-win mark on their singles careers.

SOFTBALL

Cleveland State finished seventh in the Horizon League in 2023 totaling 11 wins in conference play.The Vikings strung together four consecutive league series victories during a three-week stretch in the first half of April. The streak began with Melissa Holzopfel tossing the 12th no-hitter in program history in a 10-0 win over Northern Kentucky on April 1, 2023.

Jenna Deang and Becky Hurosky were named First-Team All-Horizon League and Holzopfel was named to the Second Team. In addition, Deang and Jenna Watts were named to the All-Academic team.

MEN’S GOLF

The Vikings wrapped up a successful season with their two highest finishes in the final events of the season. Cleveland State finished second in the Wright State Invitational to close the regular season and then registered a tie for fourth place in the Horizon League Championship tournament.

Individually, Andrew Kaye earned Academic All-Horizon League honors after finishing with a 3.97 GPA. On the course, Kaye finished the season with a 74.6 scoring average and three top-20 finishes.

LACROSSE

Cleveland State had their most successful season thus far under head coach Andy German as the program won six games in addition to their first-ever ASUN victory which came at home against Lindenwood, 14-12, on March 18, 2023.

Gannon Matthews brought in his second major award after receiving ASUN Midfielder of the Year honors and was a repeat member of the First Team, while Xander Johnson became the third Viking to be named to the ASUN All-Freshman Team. Cleveland State had two seniors set career program records with Ryan Haigh in scoring (71) and Cameron Logan in saves (328). Off the field, Matthews was also named ASUN All-Academic.

IN THE CLASSROOM Champions

2022-23 LEAGUE ALL-ACADEMIC HONOREES

Daniel Adams ............................................................................................................... Wrestling

Ben Aranda .................................................................................................................... Wrestling

Daniel Bucknavich ..................................................................................................... Wrestling

Caleb Cass ..................................................................................................................... Wrestling

Ariana Coats .................................................. Indoor Track & Field/Outdoor Track & Field

Sabrina Coffman ................................................................................................. Women’s Golf

Rachel Contich .................................................................................... Women’s Swim & Dive

Jenna Deang ....................................................................................................................... Softball

Sarah DeGeorge .......................................................................................................... Volleyball

Lina Feltovich ................................................................................................... Women’s Soccer

Justin Jaeckin ................................................................................................................ Wrestling

Pablo Kawecki ........................................................................................................ Men’s Soccer

Andrew Kaye ............................................................................................................... Men’s Golf

Lexi Knight ............................................................................................................ Women’s Golf

Bojan Kolevski ........................................................................................................ Men’s Soccer

Hannah Korte ................... Cross Country/Indoor Track & Field/Outdoor Track & Field

Lydia Latimer ................................................................................................................ Volleyball

Destiny Leo ................................................................................................. Women’s Basketball

Joey Lyons ...................................................................................................................... Wrestling

Jake Manley Wrestling

Griffin Manning .......................................................................................... Men’s Swim & Dive

Maxime Mareschal-Hay ....................................................................................... Men’s Tennis

Gannon Matthews ......................................................................................................... Lacrosse

Audrey McConihe ....................................................................................................... Volleyball

Cody Moosman ........................................................................................................... Wrestling

DeAndre Nassar ......................................................................................................... Wrestling

Jackson Nester ........................................................................................... Men’s Swim & Dive

Deshon Parker .................................................................................................. Men’s Basketball

Daniel Patten ............................................................................................................... Wrestling

Gabe Phillips ................................................................................................................. Wrestling

Albert Portas .......................................................................................................... Men’s Soccer

Marcus Robinson ........................................................................................................ Wrestling

Jannis Schmidt Men’s Soccer

Ana Sofia Sousa .................................................................................. Women’s Swim & Dive

Douglas Terry ............................................................................................................... Wrestling

Bethany Yauch ................................................................................................... Women’s Tennis

Maddie Young.................................................................................................... Women’s Soccer

Jenna Watts ........................................................................................................................ Softball

JOHN KONSTANTINOS ACADEMIC HONORS LUNCHEON

Cleveland State hosted the 31st John Konstantinos Academic Honors Luncheon in 2023, honoring 253 Vikings for having a 3.25+ cumulative grade-point average - representing 70-percent of the student-athlete population. Included in the honorees were 237 undergraduates and 16 post-baccalaureate students, while 21 were members of the Jack, Joseph & Morton Mandel Honors College.

In addition, five specialty awards were handed out; President’s Award - Lina Feltovich (Women’s Soccer), John McLendon Award - Jannis Schmidt (Men’s Soccer), Konstantinos Scholarship - Audrey McConihe (Volleyball), James LaMastra Award - Mikael Erler (Men’s Tennis), and Best of the Best Team Award - Women’s Fencing.

JANNIS SCHMIDT NAMED HORIZON LEAGUE SCHOLAR-ATHLETE OF THE FALL

Men’s soccer graduate student Jannis Schmidt was honored for his work in the classroom last fall, as he was named the Horizon League Male Scholar-Athlete of the Fall Season. Schmidt, who graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology in Spring ‘22, is currently pursuing his Master’s in Business Administration.

Schmidt, a five-year starter and two-year team captain, finished his undergraduate studies with a 3.84 grade-point average, while carrying a 4.00 GPA to-date in his MBA coursework. A two-time Horizon League Men’s Soccer All-Academic Team member, Schmidt is the fourth Viking to earn Scholar-Athlete of the Season honors over the last five years.

TEAM SPECIFIC & DEPARTMENT-WIDE COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS

Throughout the year, Cleveland State athletic teams were actively involved in the Cleveland community, giving back to a city that supports the Vikings on and off the court. Overall, Cleveland State student-athletes combined for 850+ community service hours on the year, working in conjunction with Urban Community School, Ohio Metro Parks, Beach Clean Up, St. Jude Run/Walk, and many others.

In addition, the Vikings continued their Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives by teaming with Rising Coaches for a week-long celebration in support of their DE&I campaign.

MEN’S & WOMEN’S TENNIS EARN ITA COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS

The Cleveland State men’s and women’s tennis teams were honored for their efforts in the local community during the 2022-23 academic year, as both teams earned the ITA Midwest Regional Community Service Award. The men’s team focused the majority of their efforts working with Advantage Cleveland to introduce the sport of tennis to local area youth, while the women’s team spent time working with the Cleveland Browns Foundation staffing 50/50 booths at Cleveland Browns games.

Through their efforts, the men’s and women’s tennis teams were able to grow the game and provide opportunities to local youth while also benefitting a variety of Cleveland area initiatives.

IN THE COMMUNITY Champions

CAMPUS ENGAGEMENT

ATHLETIC INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

The Cleveland State Department of Athletics offered its revamped internship program for the 2022-23 academic year, providing students and interested individuals the opportunity to gain experience working in real-life situations as part of an NCAA Division I athletics program. The experience allowed interns to explore the sports industry with hands-on experience in a variety of departments such as marketing, communications, ticketing, digital content, and more.

In addition to hands-on experience and educational programming, interns were also provided with resume reviews, job search assistance and interview preparation.

CSU SPORT MANAGEMENT PARTNERSHIP

During the 2022-23 men’s and women’s basketball campaigns the Department of Athletics partnered with the new Sports and Entertainment Management Program in the Monte Ahuja School of Business to drive student attendance at selected games. Through the ‘United We Stand’ promotion, students in the Sports and Entertainment Management Program were able to gain practical learning experiences while helping to create an outstanding gameday environment.

Selected games featured raffles valued at over $15,000 for Cleveland State University students and student groups, including Cavalier and Guardians tickets, group lunch with CSU President Laura Bloomberg and the opportunity to make a full-court putt for $5,000.

WESTON IDEATION LAB COLLABORATION

In collaboration with the Cleveland State Department of Athletics, the Weston Ideation Lab launched the ‘Every Athlete is a Startup’ program, which provides student-athletes the opportunity to learn and apply marketing, personal branding and entrepreneurship skills to identify their unique value proposition, potential revenue streams and more in relation to Name, Image, and Likeness opportunities.

Through workshops, guest speakers, discussions, exercises, and research projects, student-athletes were able to understand the Business Model Canvas from ideation to business formation.

STUDENT-ATHLETE DEVELOPMENT

Throughout the 2022-23 academic year there was a large emphasis placed on studentathlete development, carrying out the Viking Promise to help student-athletes grow as people during their time at Cleveland State. A new initiative launched this year were Leadership Lunches, in which captains from CSU programs joined Athletic Director Scott Garrett and other administrators for informative and engaging conversations.

Student-athletes also had the opportunity to take part in a variety of other programming during the year including; coaches panels, industry nights and the inaugural Ready, Set, Pro conference.

VESPYS

Cleveland State hosted the 11th annual Viking Excellence In Sports Performance Yearly Awards (VESPYS) in May of 2023, handing out 11 awards; Newcomer of theYear (Laken Voss, Volleyball), Bleed Green (Kayla Zdanowicz, Track & Field), Coach of the Year (Sinisa Ubiparipovic, Men’s Soccer), Heart of A Viking (Lacrosse), Best Sport Moment (Men’s Soccer), We Are CSU (Brittany Wampler, CSU Career Development and Exploration), Best Photo (Ellie Mckibbin, Women’s Swim & Dive), Male Athlete (Bojan Kolevski, Men’s Soccer), Female Athlete (Destiny Leo, Women’s Basketball), Mr.Viking (Raul Teichmann, Men’s Tennis), and Ms.Viking (Helena Novatsidis, Women’s Soccer).

STUDENT-ATHLETE ADVISORY COUNCIL

The Cleveland State Student-Athlete Advisory Council continued to be one of the nation’s best during 2022-23, with over 100 student-athletes in attendance at every meeting, including representation from all 19 programs.

Under the guidance of second-year president Helena Novatsidis (women’s soccer) and Faculty Athletics Representative Dr. Rob Kleidman, CSU SAAC served as a voice for the 365+ student-athletes, while also providing programming and support throughout the academic year. Highlights included women’s soccer being crowned champions at the Fall Follies game night, record-breaking attendance at designated Bleed Green contests, and most importantly department-wide buy-in for a variety of community service projects.

1,301 Largest

Crowd at Men’s Soccer

Since 2010

245K Total Revenue From Ticket Sales

3,300 Postseason Event Attendance

TICKETING & FAN ENGAGEMENT

Cleveland State fans once again proved to be some of the best during the 2022-23 academic year, with more than 44,000 supporters in attendance at home contests throughout the year. Behind season ticket accounts for men’s basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and lacrosse, in addition to single-event ticket opportunities in men’s soccer, swimming & diving and women’s basketball, ticket revenue for the year eclipsed $245,000. For the fifth straight year, men’s basketball season ticket revenue increased, in addition to growth in mini plan and group ticket sales, resulting in 32,000+ fans at the Wolstein Center during 2022-23.

CLEVELAND STATE ON ESPN

Cleveland State fans around the world were able to watch the Vikings compete last year, as 275,000+ viewed Cleveland State Athletics events, including a handful of contests on national TV. Twelve different Cleveland State teams appeared on the ESPN family of networks throughout the year, including multiple championship performances.

In addition, Cleveland State men’s basketball appeared on regional television, with two contests broadcast live from the Wolstein Center on Bally Sports Ohio. The Vikings also made their Twitch debut, with all esports contests during the inaugural season broadcast live on the platform.

BASKETBALL INITIATIVES

HEALTH + HOOPS

Following a two-year hiatus, Cleveland State brought back its annual Kids Day, offering a day of educational programming along with a women’s basketball game - both free of charge. The re-branded Health+Hoops Day welcomed 2,600+ local area children to the Wolstein Center and featured pregame health and wellness stations, interactive wellbeing in-game activities, activity booklets, giveaways, and more.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

The men’s and women’s basketball teams continued their Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives during the 2022-23 season by partnering with Rising Coaches for a week-long celebration in support of their DE&I campaign, in addition to hosting their annual John McLendon weekend.

For the #EqualityandInclusionGames, both teams wore exclusive Equality shooting shirts to support the unite. change. impact. philosophy of the Rising Coaches group, while the Vikings once again took part in the Horizon League-wide initiative to honor John McLendon’s work as a coach, educator and leader.

CHALLENGE OF THE DEANS

The Vikings once again hosted their annual Challenge of the Deans competition, in which Deans from different colleges across campus, along with a student representative, competed at halftime in a free throw shooting contest. Capturing their second straight title were Dean Lee Fisher and Robert Harwood from the College of Law.

In conjunction, the selected game also served as Faculty & Staff Appreciation Night with a pre-game reception open to all Cleveland State faculty and staff.

2022 VIKINGS BLOCK PARTY & BASKETBALL SHOWCASE

Cleveland State hosted its annual Basketball Showcase event prior to the 2022-23 campaign, offering an exclusive sneak peek of the men’s and women’s basketball teams. In addition to meeting the student-athletes who took part in 3-point shootouts, dunk contests and skills competitions, fans had the opportunity to participate in on-court promotions to win prizes, while giveaways and raffle drawings took place throughout the event.

FAN & DONOR ENGAGEMENT

THE VIKING FUND

In its fourth year, the Viking Fund - Annual Fund for CSU Athletics - continues to provide financial support for the overall experience for Cleveland State University’s 365+ student-athletes.

In addition to annual giving, the Vikings also saw a record breaking philanthropic year with $1.2+ million raised through successful initiatives including 2023 Giving Day, This City Is Our Campus Raffle, Chasing Championships, Capital Projects, and Sport Restricted accounts.

2023 CSU GIVING DAY

Over 2,300 individual donors supported Cleveland State Athletics on the 10th annual Giving Day, raising over $490,000 during the 24-hour fundraising campaign. Once again, this support allowed the Vikings to have another record-breaking Giving Day, with a 28-percent increase in dollars raised from last year.

Funds raised on Giving Day directly benefitted athletic teams or Viking Fund projects.

SPORT SPECIFIC GIVING

Cleveland State Athletics received over $550,000 in sport specific giving in 2023 through a record-breaking Giving Day in which CSU Athletic coaches led the way as CSU Ambassadors as well as through other philanthropic events throughout the school year, including multiple sport golf outings, special events and direct mailer initiatives. Through generous, sport-specific giving all nineteen programs benefitted with travel experiences, training equipment and much more in 2022-23.

51% 15% 5% 3%

Sport Specific Giving

Capital + Facility Improvements

Viking Fund

Endowments + Scholarships

Other

Thanks to your support, Cleveland State Athletics raised $1,290,000+ during 2022-23 in support of Viking student-athletes in the areas listed above.

Thanks to your support, as of May 1, 2023

VIKING DERBY

Following a five-year hiatus, the Cleveland State Athletic Department held the sixth ‘Viking Derby - A Night At The Races’ fundraising event in August of 2022, benefitting 365+ student-athletes as they work to become champions in the classroom, in the community and through competition. The 2022 edition of the Viking Derby featured virtual horse races, 50/50 side boards, raffle baskets, silent auction, derby themed food, and more.

2023 ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME CLASS INDUCTED

Cleveland State held its 43rd Athletics Hall of Fame Ceremony on February 18, 2023, inducting five members into the prestigious club.The 2023 class included Dominique Butler (Women’s Basketball), Norris Cole (Men’s Basketball), Natalia Daniels (Women’s Soccer), William Reith (Men’s Fencing), and Brad Stuver (Men’s Soccer).

In addition, the Cleveland State Department of Athletics also recognized the 2012 Men’s Soccer program as the 2023 Team of Distinction for capturing the program’s first-ever Horizon League Tournament championship.

FACILITY ENHANCEMENTS

ROBBINS FAMILY INTERACTIVE TRAINING MODULE

Through the generous support of Dr. Steve and Donna Robbins, the John Telich Sr. Tech Room received funding for a Trackman Simulator, providing year-round training opportunities for the men’s and women’s golf programs. Through the installation of the Robbins Family Interactive Training Module, student-athletes are able to have individual instruction with respect to their class schedule and weather conditions.

WOLSTEIN CENTER AUXILIARY GYM & WEIGHT ROOM UPDATES

Cleveland State Athletics continued the brand-focus for all athletic facilities as the Auxiliary Gymnasium and Weight Room inside the Wolstein Center received graphical enhancements recognizing the historical athletic success of Cleveland State men’s and women’s basketball. Through philanthropic support, the athletics facilities continue to be brightened in honor of past and present success in the classroom, in the community and through competition.

VIKING FIELD BATTING CAGES & FIELD

Cleveland State Athletics received generous support from Clark Broida and Marie Kittredge, which helped enhance the training and practice space at Viking Field through leveling of the batting cages and new netting for hitting and pitching instruction. Along with the charitable support, Cleveland State invested in the laser-grading of the infield, providing a smoother playing surface for the upcoming 2023-24 season.

WOODLING GYMNASIUM SCOREBOARD & COURT

Woodling Gymnasium received aesthetic and operational enhancements as part of Phase I in the Woodling Gymnasium Enhancement Initiative project. A resurfaced and repainted floor will welcome visitors in 2023-24, while 2023 saw the installation of a new Daktronics video board thanks to generous support from Clark Broida and Marie Kittredge that will create new fan engagement abilities for volleyball, wrestling and men’s & women’s fencing in the years ahead.

WHAT’S NEXT

ACADEMIC CENTER RENOVATIONS

In partnership with donors Jenniffer & Daryl Deckard, Pete Granson and the NCAA, the academic center in both the Physical Education Building and the Wolstein Center received its first round of renovations focused on providing our 365+ student-athletes with a comfortable academic work environment through electrical improvements, new carpeting, furniture and technological support for the 2023-24 academic year. Through the opportunities and charitable donations towards the Woodling Gymnasium Enhancement Initiative, more improvements are on the horizon.

CHAMPIONS FOR LIFE

Under the voluntary direction of Visiting Committee Chair and Viking Fund member Andy McCartney, the 2023-24 academic year will see the re-imagined Champions For Life Mentoring Program instituted for 20+ student-athletes across a variety of sport programs. Providing third and fourth year student-athletes with a Champion Mentor, the program encourages the student-athlete to prepare for the next steps of their career and transition to life after sport.

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

Cleveland State Athletics once again continues to make Mental Health Awareness a priority among student-athletes, coaches and staff, providing support through the Viking Integrative Performance (VIP) Team. In February of 2023, the Horizon League announced an historic $550,000 investment of league resources to address mental health concerns at each Horizon League institution, with a grant program developed to allow each campus to identify and address the specific mental health concerns of its student-athletes.

CSU will hire its first full-time athletics mental health counselor this fall.

STUDENT-ATHLETE ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT

The Vikings want to hear from you in 2023-24! In the year of engagement, athletics will have a strong commitment to re-establishing our connections with former Viking student-athletes. Through the connection with these former student-athletes and story-telling moments with our friends, family and alumni, we have the ability to strengthen our foundation as a beacon institution in the heart of downtown Cleveland.

CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY MASTER PLAN

In November of 2022 Cleveland State University unveiled a new visionary Master Plan proposal capitalizing

Campus Within the City

As Cleveland State Viking teams begin their 50th year of training and competition in Woodling Gymnasium in 2023, Cleveland State Athletics is excited to launch the Woodling Gymnasium Enhancement Initiative. The $1.5 million+ initiative is designed to raise funds in celebration of Cleveland State’s historic past while embracing the championship culture of the Vikings in the classroom, in the community and in competition. Funds raised through the Woodling Gymnasium Enhancement Initiative will be invested to provide support for Cleveland State Athletics’ endeavors and an elevated training and competition experience for student-athletes and coaches, while also improving the fan experience for game and event attendees.

For our great colors we shall fight! To battle, Vikings all; We’ll sound the Viking Trumpet call! We always will defend The Pride of Cleveland faithfully; For Cleveland State we’ll fight on to a victory!