Print Edition for The Observer for Monday, Dec. 4, 2023

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VOLUME 58, ISSUE 37 | MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2023 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM

Raclin museum opens doors to public

By LIAM KELLY Associate News Editor

This weekend, the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art, located just north of Eddy Street, opened its doors to the public for the first time after more than two years of construction and 16 years of planning.

Students were the first ones to be able to enjoy the museum’s art galleries, with a student preview night being held on Thursday. A DJ played live music and free Raclin Murphy Museum of Art T-shirts were printed and given out to students in the Learning Commons.

“It feels nice that there is such a wide variety of art so close to where I spend my everyday life,” sophomore James Thompson said about the museum. “It’s such a vibrant space with so much to see, and I overall really enjoyed it.”

From the atrium on the first floor, visitors can access the gallery

SOFIA CRIMIVAROLI | The Observer

The Raclin Murphy Museum of Art opened to the public on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023 in its new location north of Eddy Street Commons. The Museum houses art from Notre Dame’s approximately 31,000 piece collection.

Church members protest gun violence in silence

By KATELYN WALDSCHMIDT Associate News Editor

Sisters of the Holy Cross, members of the Church of Our Lady of Loretto and other community members gather outside of Saint Mary’s for a silent demonstration against gun violence on the first Saturday of every month.

This Saturday was no different — sisters and the community rallied at the corner of State Road 933 and Brother Andre Drive.

Sr. Joy O’Grady is one of the original organizers of the demonstration and she explained the origin of it.

“Anne Luther was the instigator and she got with me and we talked and just started inviting people,” O’Grady said.

O’Grady said the first demonstration ever took place on Good Friday.

“We had the walk and then we went to church, so it was like taking action into our prayer,” she said.

“We had about 130 people that time and so we decided we would do it the first Saturday of every

NEWS PAGE 4

month going forward.”

O’Grady explained the purpose of being silent during the demonstration.

“It’s a contemplative walk,” she said. “We walk in silence in support of banning assault weapons and try to do all we can to prevent gun violence.”

Tess Hayes, a Saint Mary’s student who has previously attended the demonstrations, expanded on the meaning of the silence.

“We learn in communications that everything is communication.

Silence is a form of communication,” Hayes said. “This is to show that some protests really are peaceful. I think it’s advertised as a silent protest and that’s a form of prayer almost. It’s a reflective practice that is happening as they are walking down 933 and that’s actually really beautiful.”

Sr. Judith Hallock was also in attendance this previous Saturday and talked about her motivations for demonstrating.

“I’m very concerned about the see PROTEST PAGE 4

SCENE PAGE 7

holding European and American art from 1700 to 1900, the gallery holding African art and the Teaching Gallery — which holds a variety of works of arts related to classes being taught at Notre Dame.

Also on the first floor are the coffee shop, Ivan’s Cafe, and the Learning Commons.

Emily Shetterly, a marketing assistant and social media manager at the museum, described her experience walking into the completed building.

“Walking into the Raclin Murphy is an incredible experience,” Shetterly said. “After seeing the behind-the-scenes of it all the past few years, it is my favorite part to be greeted by those large doors and to be aware of the intentionality and the work that went into every detail of the space.” see RACLIN PAGE 3

Nicaraguan politician recounts imprisonment

By MAGGIE EASTLAND Editor-in-Chief

Like most incoming freshmen, Victoria Chamorro, a student from Nicaragua, envisioned moving into Notre Dame with her parents.

That dream shattered in June 2021, when dozens of armed guards and eight police patrol cars pulled up to her home to arrest her father, a pre-candidate in the Nicaraguan presidential election.

“They broke into the neighborhood,” Victoria recalled. “They were coming to take my dad.”

Victoria’s father, Juan Sebastián Chamorro, handed her his phone and asked her to delete its information. Her mother and father surrendered to police while Victoria stayed next door with her grandmother. Police ransacked the home for four hours.

“They took everything they wanted,” Chamorro’s wife, Victoria Cárdenas, said. “It was a violation of my family.”

Three days later, Chamorro’s wife and daughter fled to Florida.

His family did not know his whereabouts for three months.

Torn apart by Daniel Ortega’s regime in Nicaragua, the Chamorro

VIEWPOINT PAGE 5

family spent nearly two years isolated. While Chamorro was confined to a Nicaraguan prison, his daughter was an underclassman at Notre Dame and his wife was traveling across the globe to advocate for her husband and other political prisoners. The family finally reunited in February of this year, after political pressure from the U.S. freed more than 200 prisoners.

Chamorro family kept apart for 611 days When Victoria began her freshman year at Notre Dame in August, she still had not heard from her father. Although she was hesitant about starting school, she wanted to follow through on a promise she made to her father.

“He told me, ‘Promise me, you’ll go,’” Victoria said.

In a Nicaraguan prison thousands of miles away, Chamorro said he was glad that his daughter continued her studies in architecture. He received this news from his sister, three months after his imprisonment.

While in prison, Chamorro was not allowed to speak on the phone with his family for more than a

HOCKEY PAGE 12

year.

“Even convicted criminals have the right to see families,” Chamorro said. “I was denied a phone call.”

Deprived of food, he lost nearly 30 pounds. He said he was interrogated every day, placed in solitary confinement for a month and forbidden from reading or writing.

On Feb. 23, 2022, Chamorro’s birthday, Ortega’s government sentenced him to 13 years in prison as a “traitor to the homeland” for attempting to run for president in the country’s election.

Chamorro had no option to speak to a lawyer, and he called the trial a “farce” characteristic of dictators who seek to jail political opponents. The trial was “an attempt to break our souls and our families,” he said.

When his daughter finally had a chance to speak to him on a phone call in January 2023, she said she noticed both the toll of prison and her father’s courageous attitude.

“I don’t know if it’s a virtue or a defect, but I have a low level of fear,” Chamorro said, explaining that he could not stand by and see NICARAGUA PAGE 3

M SOCCER PAGE 12

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TODAY

THE OBSERVER | MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2023 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM

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The Raclin Murphy Museum of Art showcases around 1,000 artworks at a time, which are spread out across three seperate floors.

The Museum held its student opening on Thursday, Nov. 30 and general opening weekend from Friday, Dec. 1 to Sunday, Dec. 3.

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Nicaragua CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

watch Ortega win the 2021 election.

Throughout her husband’s imprisonment, Chamorro’s wife spearheaded a global human rights campaign. Cárdenas visited leaders and politicians in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Costa Rica, Madrid, Geneva and Brussels.

She addressed the United Nations General Assembly in New York City and the European Parliament.

Cárdenas stood up not only for her husband, but also for the six other candidates who were jailed or placed on house arrest. She and another prisoner’s wife wrote an op-ed in the Washington Post and spoke on 60 Minutes.

Because of her advocacy, Cárdenas was also declared a “traitor to the homeland” by Ortega’s regime.

“I was talking as a mother and as a wife about what was happening to my family, what was happening to my husband. I didn’t even know where he was, whether he was alive or dead,” she said. “This is not politics. This is human rights.”

Though Cárdenas had no experience in public speaking or advocacy, she became a voice for political prisoners in Nicaragua, spurred to action by the harshness of her husband’s sentence and the violence of his detainment.

“She transformed herself into an advocate for human rights and liberation of political prisoners. At the same time, she was the mom of a Notre Dame student,” Chamorro said about his wife.

She said her efforts were the only thing she could think to do to

respond to injustice.

“If I was not doing that, I don’t know what I would have been doing,” Cárdenas said regarding the international campaign. “It gave me a purpose. It gave me something to fight for.”

‘A way of protesting against the dictator’: Ortega imprisons all seven presidential candidates Despite the challenges of prison, Chamorro said his convictions for freedom and democracy sustained him.

“Ortega had control of all the electoral system,” Chamorro said.

“We knew that the risk of facing electoral fraud was very high, but still, we decided to go ahead with the primary process.”

Even though he was aware of his slim odds at succeeding, Chamorro and six other candidates decided to challenge Ortega in the 2021 election. When the 2021 primary candidates moved toward selecting a single nominee, Ortega responded by imprisoning every candidate.

“He just put the six of us in jail and accused us of being terrorists,” Chamorro said.

Running for president was a form of protest against the dictatorship and a way to document the extent of electoral fraud, he said.

“It was a way of protesting against the dictator and telling the dictatorship, ‘We are democrats. We believe in democratic means,’” Chamorro said.

When Ortega allegedly won reelection in November 2021, Cárdenas was in Washington, D.C., “denouncing the fraud” and telling everyone who would listen that the opposing candidates were in jail.

The plan worked. In part because of his wife’s campaign, nations across the globe paid attention to the democratic fraud. But that evidence came at a cost.

“In a way, we provoked the dictator to take that action at a very high cost of our freedom for so long, almost two years,” Chamorro said.

“It’s a form of fighting.”

Chamorro and his family knew the risk of opposing Ortega, but they never imagined that imprisonment would last nearly two years.

U.S. pressure frees hundreds of political prisoners, including Chamorro Awoken by a 6 a.m. phone call from her mother, Victoria found out about her father’s release from prison while at Notre Dame.

“She could barely speak, she was crying,” Victoria said of her mother’s demeanor on the phone. “But basically, she was saying that my dad was on a plane on his way from Nicaragua to D.C.” Victoria scrambled onto the next flight to Washington, D.C. to be reunited with her mother and father.

She skipped class that day.

Chamorro said he was expecting a normal night in jail when guards ordered him to get dressed and put him on a plane with 221 other political prisoners. According to the Washington Post, the U.S. government chartered flight was part of a secret Biden administration operation to free political prisoners in Nicaragua.

Bishop Rolando Álvarez chose to remain in Nicaragua. He has been sentenced to 26 years in prison.

After 611 days apart, the Chamorro family reunited in Dulles International Airport.

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Chamorro’s wife believes her husband would still be in prison without the campaign she led.

“We needed this global pressure,” Cárdenas said. “After everything that I’d done, I couldn’t believe he was landing in D.C.” Though Victoria and her parents cannot return to Nicaragua and lost all their belongings, she is grateful to have her family together again.

“The person that I am now is completely different from the person I was six years ago,” she said.

“It’s definitely given me an appreciation and a sense of being grateful for what you have, especially family.”

Victoria said she is proud of her father’s bravery and service to his country.

Democracy deteriorates in Nicaragua Even before her father decided to run for president, Victoria remembers taking extra safety precautions. As Chamorro grew more involved in politics, the family moved frequently. In the months leading up to her father’s arrest, Victoria remembers threatening calls and drone surveillance over her home. Chamorro said he was beaten in the street on several occasions.

A Georgetown Universitytrained economist, Chamorro served in the government as vice minister of finance and secretary to the president for planning before his imprisonment. He was also part of negotiations with Ortega after a 2018 massacre that ended in the death of more than 350 people protesting changes to social security.

“Thousands of Nicaraguans went to the streets asking for a change,” Chamorro said. “The regime responded with bullets.”

Chamorro’s daughter said these deadly protests showed her the extent of barriers to democracy.

“I’ve always grown up with this notion of how dictators come and go in Nicaragua. It wasn’t until 2018 that I was awoken,” she said.

For many people in Nicaragua, speaking against Ortega’s regime can result in imprisonment, violence or even death. Someone who formerly lived in Nicaragua described the conditions as dangerous for anyone who makes a political statement.

Editor’s Note: To protect the safety of the person who formerly lived in Nicaragua, they are anonymously attributed.

“It is like a parallel reality. If you’re committed to staying out of politics and minding your own business … you’re in no trouble of danger,” the person said. “But anybody who wishes to engage in politics in a way that’s out of line will see strict repercussions immediately.”

Ortega’s regime carefully monitors digital footprints. Even posting on social media can result in lost citizenship or imprisonment.

Many people are leaving Nicaragua, but some cannot flee.

“There’s people that really can’t leave out of fear,” the person said.

“They feel that leaving would put their family in jeopardy.”

University President Fr. John Jenkins also recently called attention to the dictatorship in Nicaragua, writing an op-ed in the Washington Post decrying

3

the country’s persecution of the Catholic Church and the takeover of the Jesuit-run Central American University.

The person who formerly lived in Nicaragua said that Ortega is monitoring the church and suppressing any hint of independence.

“You’re not going to be arrested for owning a Bible,” the person said. “But at the same time, you see the government impose restrictions on religious processions in the street. They monitor what is said in homilies.”

Others, including Chamorro, have been stripped of their nationality and personal property, forced to become stateless persons.

“There’s a lot of people suffering a great deal, especially in Nicaragua that are fearful of even speaking out. In a way, I feel blessed to be able to speak out in the name of those who cannot,” Chamorro said.

‘It will finish’: Chamorro hopes to one day return to Nicaragua Although his own imprisonment demonstrates the barriers to democracy in Nicaragua, Chamorro has hope for the country’s future.

“In history, dictators have never prevailed. I don’t know when the dictatorship of my country will finish. But it will finish. That’s for certain,” he said. “That’s a reason that keeps me moving every day to come to this office and write about what’s happening.”

After regaining his freedom, Chamorro began to look for jobs in academia. He was drawn to Notre Dame because of his daughter and his father, who also studied at the University. Representatives from the Kroc Center for Peace Studies also visited Chamorro’s home after Chamorro became involved with political negotiations in 2018.

Now a Kellogg Institute visiting fellow, Chamorro is writing a book about how dictatorship came to dominate his country. His office in Hesburgh Center is bare.

Ortega’s regime seized his assets, but draped between near-empty shelves, he flies the Nicaraguan national flag. Today, that emblem — blue and white striped with symbols of freedom and equality in the center — can get a person in Nicaragua arrested.

The flag is reminder of what is at stake. Chamorro wants to create a record of how dictatorship arose in Nicaragua and how it is hurting the Nicaraguan people.

Eventually, he hopes to return to his home country.

“All dictators have an ending date. We don’t know the ending date of this particular one, but it will end,” he said. “I want to be there to go back and help reconstruct democracy and freedoms in Nicaragua.”

But before that, Chamorro says Nicaragua must break through the fear imposed by Ortega.

“We have to overcome that fear, and denounce what is going on,” he said.

Contact Maggie Eastland at meastlan@nd.edu

• • •

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THE OBSERVER | MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2023 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM

South Bend show attracts record-lovers News Writer

The South Bend Record Show took place this Sunday at the Gillespie Conference Center at the South Bend Hilton Garden Inn. Organizer Jeremy Bonfiglio said he has been planning the shows for five years.

“We hold the show actually six times a year,” Bonfiglio said. “Every other month — and so we bring in dealers, record vendors from all over the Midwest.”

The show has been going on for more than 30 years, Bonfiglio added.

“So it’s been over 30 years that the show has been granted, and I think I’m the third or fourth owner now of the show,” Bonfiglio said. “It’s been

Raclin CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

On the second floor you can find galleries where European art through 1700, North American indigenous art and art from Central and South America are all held. The Mary Queen of Families Chapel, which features a mosaic

by Italian artist Mimmo Paladino on the ceiling and Catholic paintings and artifacts from the 13th and 15th centuries, is also on the second floor.

The basement of the museum houses modern and contemporary art as well as a sculpture court that can also be viewed from the first floor. The third floor

Protest CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

gun violence in our country,” Hallock said. “I think it’s a very serious issue and we’re not taking guns away from people. But some of the automatic rifles and things are not needed.”

O’Grady said that she is also not opposed to guns across the board.

“I feel that it’s extremely important for all the deaths that have occurred of our young people,” O’Grady. “We are not against guns, but we feel there needs to be interviews of people to make sure they are going to use the guns in a healthy and safe manner.”

The sisters are really dedicated to spreading awareness on the dangers that guns have in local communities, Hayes added.

“They want to ensure that they’re leaving behind a legacy because we are the future and it’s up to us to be able to change legislation,” Hayes said. “They want to ensure that we are safe and that our children are safe.”

Hayes, O’Grady and Hallock all said there were not enough student supporters at the demonstration.

“Disappointingly, it’s mostly older people,” O’Grady said. “You see very few young people but it’s them that have to take responsibility for the future of our health and safety.”

Hallock said she encourages students to make signs about banning assault weapons and to join the walk.

going on for a long time. And so it’s great to kind of be able to carry on that tradition and to grow it as much as we have.”

Greg Stuart, a vendor from Indiana, said he thinks it’s good to own records.

“I think a lot of the new releases — the things [released] now — aren’t the same sound because it’s digitally recorded and then printed onto the record,” Stuart said. “It used to be all analog and a lot of people like their background noise in older records.”

Another vender Bob Frazier said valuable records have to be in good condition, early in a movement and rare.

“It has to be in good condition,” Frazier said. “It has to be relatively early in a movement. And it has to be rare because I’d say the Beatles

sold millions [of records] though they’re still desirable. They’re not the top of the line unless you get the rare variation of it.”

Frazier said his main source for finding the value of records is Ebay of the music marketplace Discogs.

“Your main source is going to be Discogs or Ebay. You look them up on there,” Frazier said. “And a lot of knowledgeable record buyers out there tell you that these are really nice. So you’re not charging enough for this and those are what they usually buy.”

The record industry has changed because of artists such as Taylor Swift who release variations of the same records, Frazier explained.

“There are multiple variations when they come out,” Frazier said. ”You know Taylor Swift has

10 different variations of the same record.”

Bonfiglio said the show is a large attraction because of its vendors, who come from all over the Midwest.

“It makes it the biggest one-day record store in the area, so it’s an opportunity for people to come in and shop for stuff that they can’t find locally,” Bonfiglio said.

Bonfiglio added that the sale has grown since a location change — with an increase from 56 tables to 90.

“Now we’re up to over 90 tables, and we have really expanded with dealers,” Bonfiglio said. “The audience has grown obviously over the last several years with the resurgence of vinyl.”

According to Bonfiglio, the record

sale has much more diverse people coming out recently.

“We see a lot more diverse people coming out,” Bonfiglio said. “So we see people from campus coming over which is great and we see high school students … So it’s become a real mix which has been a lot of fun.”

Bonfiglio said the sale is a gathering of like-minded people.

“I think it’s really just a gathering of like-minded people who just love music,” Bonfiglio said. “So people get together and they tell stories about their favorite bands and musicians — there’s a lot of camaraderie there.”

The next record show will take place Feb. 4.

holds offices and studio rooms.

“It’s a very calming and serene place on campus where you’re able to really enjoy and experience some of the art within the South Bend community and also some of the other artists that are featured here,” sophomore Lily Bradley said.

According to the museum website, 31,000 works are held within its collection, with more than 1,000 of these being on display at any given time.

In a statement in promotional material passed out to visitors entering the museum, University President Fr. John Jenkins praised the new museum for sharing the many pieces of art “in all their richness with

our University community, our neighbors in the region and the wider world.”

The Raclin Murphy replaces the Snite Museum of Art which has now become the Snite Research Center in the Visual Arts.

Shetterly explained the advantages the new venue offers.

“The old Snite Museum does not compare to the Raclin Murphy,” she said. “While we have always had an incredible collection of work, the new space serves as a grand pedestal to show off this collection. The design and the architecture of the new museum really matches how impressive the collection is, showing it off appropriately.”

Although Thompson noted

that the Snite would always have a special place in his heart, he also praised the Raclin Murphy as opposed to the Snite.

“For one, it is much bigger and open, which I definitely liked,” he explained. “You could definitely spend an entire day there. I also think having permanent exhibits for indigenous and African art was a notable change.”

After students were able to enjoy the museum Thursday, festivities continued throughout the weekend. On Friday night, there was a DJ once again, as well as a cash bar for visitors to enjoy. On Saturday, the Notre Dame Children’s Liturgical Choir and players from Merrimans’ Playhouse, a jazz club in South

Bend, performed.

On Sunday, an indigenous group put on a dancing, drumming and singing presentation in the atrium of the museum.

Additionally, a block printing demonstration was held on the third floor and hot chocolates and cookies were served in a tent outside of the museum.

“I definitely plan to go back to the museum and make a whole day out of it,” Thompson explained. “Going to the museum and getting a bite to eat on Eddy Street just a few steps away is going to be a new weekend favorite activity.”

Contact Rose Androwich at randrowich01@saintmarys.edu

Contact Liam Kelly at lkelly8@nd.edu

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“It’s sometimes people from the whole county that come in but encourage the campus community,” Hallock said. “This is a wonderful way to put our faith in action.”

The demonstration is worth checking out if one has time on a Saturday morning, Hayes added.

“Hear the stories that have inspired these women to begin this protest,” she said. “It’s wonderful to be a part of a strong community of women who are advocating for others. I encourage my residents to attend, encourage my friends.”

Hayes said that demonstrating with the sisters is a great way for people to begin their journey in making their voice heard.

“I know that going to a protest can sometimes seem a little daunting, but there’s something about protesting with the sisters that makes it much less daunting,” Hayes said. “If someone is eager to try or it sparks an interest, that’s the place to do it and they’re the people to do it with.

It’ll teach you a thing or two about life and how to live, especially live in a community.”

The sisters plan to continue to have their demonstrations on the first Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., “unless there is a blizzard or something,” O’Grady said.

Contact Katelyn Waldschmidt at kwaldschmidt01@saintmarys.edu

2023 WINNER

By ROSE ANDROWICH

Sheedy Award for Excellence in Teaching

ERIC SIMS Michael P. Grace II Collegiate Chair Chair, Department of Economics

Presentation at

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WEDNESDAY, DEC. 6 Raclin Murphy Museum of Art

5

THE OBSERVER | MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2023 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM

Is SMC living up to its purpose?

Don’t change the non-discrimination clause I wish to open this message from the heart: in no way do the issues raised hereafter intend to hurt, diminish or evoke hatred towards those who are transgender or gender non-conforming. All humans deserve love and to find belonging.

My request is this, that the Saint Mary’s College admissions board reconsider and reverse its decision to admit students who are not biologically female (or assigned female at birth, for the rare case of an intersex person).

To preface, I must make clear how we define sex and gender.

Sex is a set of primary and secondary sexual characteristics that lie on a binary. It must be acknowledged that there is variation across the binary — one can be female and have a naturally flatter chest or broader shoulders. The rare intersex person is somewhere in the middle, and their sex is, for all intents and purposes, the sex they are assigned at birth.

This leaves at most three sexes: male, female and the very rare intersex, though the latter are generally assigned a sex at birth and are medically treated as such.

Gender, on the other hand, is the “socially constructed roles, behaviors, expressions and identities” people may have. Gender changes through time and culture, from the homemaking women of the past to the “Rosie Riveters” of wartime, to the working women of the 1980s. Furthermore, gender expression is not simple, and cannot be divided into quantifiable categories. Women can be masculine, men can be feminine and both can still have “woman” and “man” identities. There is no consistent system for categorizing gender expression, if it is to be regarded as fluid and unique.

Having established the differences between sex and gender, this appeal looks to the past, to the establishment of the first women’s colleges. Higher education was not always accessible to women.

Throughout much of human history, the female sex has been oppressed and had opportunities withheld, despite the changing expression of the “feminine” gender. This led to the establishment of women’s colleges, where biological females, throughout different phases of the female gender expression, would be able to commune with other biological females and receive an education through this lens. These criteria should not change. Biological females have always made up the student population at Saint Mary’s, even as individuality and gender expression change the social landscape.

“We would like to uphold this legacy for the women who came before — an educational space for only biological women.”

We would like to uphold this legacy for the women who came before — an educational space for only biological women. We wish to honor the historical challenges that biological females have faced.

Gender, if it is to be regarded as fluid and changing, cannot be simply determined and thus, cannot replace biological sex as a parameter for admission.

Audrey Fleming class of 2026 Nov. 28

We should give our professors tenure Dear President Conboy, We hope this letter finds you well.

We are writing to express our concern and disappointment regarding the recent decision to deny tenure to assistant professor of economics Dr. Ari Farshbaf at Saint Mary’s College. The below 169 signatories, composed of students and alumnae, stand in solidarity with Dr. Farshbaf.

Our College’s philosophy of purpose states that Saint Mary’s is dedicated to promoting “a life of intellectual vigor” through “excellence in teaching.” Dr. Farshbaf embodies this mission through his contributions to the department and his care for the academic growth of his students. As his students, we have witnessed his commitment to the College’s mission of igniting ”lifelong intellectual interests” and curiosity in students.

Dr. Farshbaf’s teaching style, driven by his passion for economics, makes complex concepts understandable and captivates and compels students to learn more. He guides them to not just master the material but also comprehend its significance. As a result, his students end each semester with an increased appreciation for the discipline, motivating them to explore it further. Our College’s mission statement underscores the importance of faculty both challenging and supporting students in their intellectual journey. Dr. Farshbaf consistently demonstrates these qualities, going above and beyond to ensure that students receive a robust education in economics.

Dr. Farshbaf’s dedication to student success extends beyond the classroom and the discipline, as evidenced by his availability and willingness to provide support outside of regular office hours, his attendance and funding of student-led events, his genuine interest in students’ wellbeing and his mentorship. In September, Belles in Economics brought back four alumnae to campus for their catered Healthcare in Economics panel event. The panel was a success, with over 60 students, alumnae and faculty in attendance. However, it would not have been possible without the tremendous support from Dr. Farshbaf.

This is just one of many testimonials to Dr. Farshbaf’s dedication to providing students the resources and guidance needed to excel in their studies and endeavors. This commitment to student success and the holistic growth of his students aligns with the College’s mission to “cultivate a community that responds to the needs of women.”

Dr. Farshbaf personifies the mission and values Saint Mary’s College promises its students. The recent decision to

deny Dr. Farshbaf tenure raises questions about the alignment of these actions with the mission and values of the College. While we understand the importance of research, we assert that the primary consideration at a liberal arts institution like Saint Mary’s College should be on teaching, service and the overall impact on students.

Saint Mary’s College is not a research institution. What attracts students to it are the values and care promised in the College’s mission, exemplified by Dr. Farshbaf.

“[Denying Dr. Farshbaf tenure] contradicts the principles of justice and equality that SMC stands for.”

In light of this recent decision, we feel compelled to express how this action contradicts the principles of justice and equality that Saint Mary’s College stands for. The College’s core values emphasize that “the diversity of the individuals that comprise a learning community” is paramount and that it “invites [the College] to make an active commitment to diversity.” Additionally, in the June 2020 letter titled “An Open Letter to our Community in Response to a Petition for Anti-Racist Infrastructural Changes in Light of George Floyd’s Death,” the Board of Trustees, including yourself, pledged to “prioritize the diversity of faculty and staff in future hiring decisions.” Despite this professed commitment to diversity, the low tenure rates for minorities at Saint Mary’s College cast doubt on the sincerity of the College’s commitment to its values. The decision to deny tenure to Dr. Farshbaf raises concerns about the fairness and inclusivity of the tenure process, especially considering the past and present tenure patterns of faculty. It is crucial that the institution upholds its promise of diversity and justice in all aspects of its operations.

Further, students have observed the College’s decisions regarding the economics major and consequently Dr. Farshbaf’s tenure. The lack of appreciation and support for the discipline contradicts the mission statement which accentuates the College’s dedication to providing a strong liberal arts foundation for all its students.

Economics, as the quintessential liberal arts degree, draws concepts and information from various fields and synthesizes them into one discipline that seeks solutions for the world’s most pressing problems. Despite the limited support from the College,

Dr. Farshbaf has, over the past seven years, bridged the gap through his dedication to students, allowing them to receive the education they came to Saint Mary’s College for, in spite of the College’s actions. The act of denying Dr. Farshbaf’s tenure, and depriving students of an extremely qualified and dedicated professor who has had an extraordinary impact on student growth, is yet another instance that reflects the College’s lack of priority for the major and its students. This lack of support for the discipline undermines the College’s commitment to offering a comprehensive liberal arts education and does not align with its mission.

If the administration continues to make decisions against the College’s values and mission, and persists in deprioritizing academic departments, students may consider leaving for other institutions, where their majors are prioritized. Moreover, the lack of endorsement for valued faculty members like Dr. Farshbaf will undoubtedly lead to a diminished sense of support for the College among students and alumnae and will impact their likelihood to donate.

Students choose liberal arts colleges like Saint Mary’s because of the opportunity to have dedicated professors like Dr. Farshbaf, who not only excel in teaching but also actively contribute to the personal and social growth of their students. The potential departure of Dr. Farshbaf, mixed with the disregard for the values outlined in the mission statement, leaves many of us questioning the institution’s commitment to its students and their education.

Dr. Farshbaf’s service to the College and the Economics department and his influence on students are immeasurable. We respectfully urge you to reconsider the decision regarding Dr. Farshbaf’s tenure, acknowledging his contributions to the academic community at Saint Mary’s College.

His commitment to the mission and values of the College, along with his exceptional teaching abilities, makes him an invaluable asset to our academic community. The tenure decisions made by the College should reflect the principles of academic excellence, diversity, inclusion and justice outlined in the mission statement.

Thank you for your time and consideration; we trust that your discernment will lead to a fair resolution that aligns with the mission that brought us to Saint Mary’s College.

Isabella Fischer class of 2025 and 168 other Saint Mary’s College macroeconomics students Nov. 27

6

THE OBSERVER | MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2023 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM

The essence of snow

INSIDE COLUMN

What a time to be alive!

Helina Kassa

Joy Agwu The Lessons I’ve Learned From Media

Editor’s note: This column includes spoilers for ”The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.”

Newsletter Editor

This column shares 20 lighthearted things I am thankful for this year that make my life actionpacked rather than a comatose snoozefest.

1. Friends and family. Thank you for your unwavering support and joy.

2. Gel Pentel 0.7 mm pens. As someone left-handed, these pens have changed my life.

3. Eight seasons of Suits. What a masterpiece. Suits is one of the most entertaining TV shows I have watched in a very long time.

4. Model United Nations. Thank you for giving me friends from the circuit, long-lasting memories and teaching me about global affairs.

5. Expelling Rep. George Santos. He belongs in House of Cards. I am glad his 331 days in Congress have come to an end.

6. Dutch apple pie. This undoubtedly is the best version of pie. The topping of Dutch Apple pies is unlike any other. I hope all pies add a Dutch topping.

7. All things apple spice. Pumpkin is overrated. This year, I had Caramel Apple Spice for the first time and it was one of the best decisions of my life.

8. Wired headphones. While stylish and efficient, wired headphones are one of the most comfortable options for headphones. Plus, you do not need to charge them.

9. TSA PreCheck. Thank you for helping me make it on time for my flights and giving me a smooth Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport or Washington Dulles International Airport experience.

10. Sweetgreen. Thank you for making salads appealing and worth eating. While the closest Sweetgreen near Notre Dame is over 80 miles away, I will get some soon. Do not worry!

11. My fall 2023 professors. Thank you for making learning fun again.

12.Russian opera and jazz. Thank you for letting me listen to peaceful and entertaining tunes while I study.

13. Joe Biden’s dog Commander. He makes the White House more lively.

14. The East (and best) Coast. No one can outdo the thirteen colonies’ profound legacy and unparalleled culture.

15. Anything green. What a lovely color, oh my.

16. Movies with Timothée Chalamet. He just makes them 20 times better. His range is impeccable.

Who else could do ”Willy Wonka” and also star in ”Little Women” and ”Lady Bird.”

17. Views on campus. The transition from fall to winter is so gorgeous from my window.

18. The Weeknd. I was in the top 0.01% of The Weeknd’s Spotify listeners, so I might be biased, but he is our generation’s Michael Jackson.

19. Spacious elevators. Europeans and Europe need more of them. We’re so blessed here in the United States.

20.Evian spring water. This is arguably the best bottled water on the market.

With all seriousness, this list holds a fraction of niche and playful things I have grown to be thankful for in 2023. I have been blessed with many fortunes that words cannot describe this year.

As 2023 ends, I am excited for 2024. It will be the first presidential election I will be eligible to vote in.

Who will win? Will Biden win by a landslide? Will Trump finally be present for a Republican debate?

Who knows? Only time will tell.

You can contact Helina at hkassa@nd.edu.

The views expressed in this Inside Column are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.

“This world, it’s dark, this world, it’s scary / I’ve taken some hits so no wonder I’m wary / It’s why I need you / You’re as pure as the driven snow.”

-Lucy Gray from “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”

When I was in middle school, I learned that a snowflake is ice that formed around a particle of dirt. I’ve since come to learn that it is not necessarily dirt. Ice can also form around particles of dust, pollen or even sea salt.

Anyway, that realization is why I stopped eating snow sometime in 7th grade. I could never get over the fact that this soft and seemingly pure delight was actually — at its core — dirt. Snow’s deceptive nature parallels the character of Coriolanus Snow, the president of the fictional world Panem and the antagonist of The Hunger Games series, as portrayed in ”The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.”

Despite the book’s publication in 2020, the recent film adaptation of “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” premiered just weeks ago. The narrative provides an origin story for President Snow, shedding light on his familial lineage and personal motivations. A recurring phrase in the movie is his family motto: “Snow lands on top.”

The motto exudes resilience and unwavering determination.

Regardless of hardships, a member of the Snow family will always triumph despite any adversities.

One can almost envision Donald Sutherland’s President Snow, wearing his signature self-indulgent smirk, reciting these words with unyielding conviction.

In the book, the narrative unfolds from Snow’s perspective, affording readers insight into how he constantly maneuvers to protect his own interests and manipulates others so they can see him in a kind light. He’s a textbook unreliable narrator, but his biased perspective reveals the breadth of his arrogance, while simultaneously presenting the layers of his many insecurities.

The intriguing aspect of the film adaptation is the absence of

the book Snow’s inner monologue — a crucial aspect to understanding Snow as a fundamentally untrusting and self-interested individual. In the movie, it seems as if charming Snow has this somewhat unexpected (perhaps even sudden) descent into darkness. But if you’ve read the book — if you have the background information — you’ll know that this descent came as no surprise.

Snow’s acquisition of increasingly negative and self-destructive values is more comprehensively explored in the book, making his evolution less sudden and more contextualized.

Although often overshadowed by the series’ romances, action sequences and the attractiveness of the cast members, a pivotal theme of The Hunger Games saga explores the dichotomy of human nature — whether humanity leans towards inherent goodness or inherent evil. Towards the film’s conclusion, when queried about the purpose of The Hunger Games, Snow responds with a chilling revelation: “To remind us all who we truly are.” This chilling declaration unveils his conviction that humanity is inherently bloodthirsty. He is willing to undertake any means necessary to survive. At least, this is how he sees himself and how he justifies his decisions. In committing to this understanding of human nature, he secures his future in the Capitol and effectively becomes “the victor” of the 10th Hunger Games. He became an ambitious, conniving and cold individual.

He cemented himself as a real member of the Snow family — and, as we all know by now, snow lands on top.

Now, at this point you might be thinking: Is the lesson of today’s column that some people are fundamentally evil? No, of course not. I firmly reject that notion. Human beings are not fundamentally evil, but Snow is.

For Snow, being a true member of the Snow family holds an aspirational allure. Sure, it’s quite literally in his blood, but he doesn’t even remember his parents. The Snow prestige has all but disappeared. He only knows of his father’s legacy and the Snow family creed. For Coriolanus, the notion of being a Snow transcends mere lineage. It’s an ideal reinforced by core values of supremacy, dominance and the acquisition of authority. He perceives the Snow name as synonymous with power, shaping his ambition and defining his pursuits.

As people familiar with the nature of snow, we know that it is nothing but dirt.

You see, I think human beings are like the water that inevitably becomes snow. As we evolve and mature over time, we encounter opportunities to define the particles around which we shape ourselves. This process allows us to consciously select the core values we cherish and fashion our growth around those principles.

Some choose to develop around pollen which helps create life and continues on our life cycle or around sea salt which can be rich in cleansing minerals. At the same time, others may choose to develop around dirt which admittedly serves a purpose but is also dead matter. Ultimately, it’s our conscious choices and the values we center ourselves upon that define our evolution and trajectory.

It is still hard to change once you are set in your ways. As the wise and formidable Olaf the snowman shares in “Frozen 2,” water holds memories. As you form and reform around various particles, you still carry your story with you.

So, for today’s lesson, I remind you that we are in our prime selfdiscovery years — use them wisely. I encourage you to be mindful of what you gravitate toward and pay close attention to what you choose to prioritize. If you feel yourself developing into a person you don’t want to be, it is never too late to make different decisions and develop new habits. It’s hard, but not impossible.

All this being said, as we draw nearer to our winter break and approach the new year in the upcoming weeks, I wish you all the best. In between spending time with loved ones and brainstorming New Year’s Resolutions, I truly hope you find the time to read ”The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.” It is honestly such an interesting read. Regardless, safe travels and happy holidays.

As for finals, I’ll just say this: May the odds be ever in your favor.

Joy Agwu is a senior at Pasquerilla West, originally from Bowie, Maryland. She is pursuing a degree in philosophy with a minor in Constitutional studies. In her free time, she finds great pleasure in consuming media and reflecting on the deeper meanings behind the content she encounters. Whether you have recommendations for TV shows, movies, podcasts or any other form of media, or if would like to further discuss an idea presented in a column, feel free to reach out to her on Instagram @JoyfulJoyousss.

The views expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.

Submit a Letter to the Editor: viewpoint@ndsmcobserver.com

7

THE OBSERVER | MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2023 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM

By CLAIRE LYONS Viewpoint Editor

Are you looking for something to get your loved ones this holiday season? Are you struggling to find something to ask for? Gift-giving is hard, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some ideas.

For your father It is notoriously hard to buy dads gifts. They typically provide a lot and don’t ask for much in return. When all else fails, buy your dad a nice version of something he already uses — a fountain pen, a drill or a durable pair of socks — because he doesn’t buy nice things for himself anyway. Some unique gift ideas for dads include: 1. A monthly artisanal hot sauce subscription: Feeling the burn? Hot sauce is a great way to add some spice to your dad’s life.

2. A day at the golf course: If your dad is a big fan of golf, like mine is, some quality bonding-time at the golf course is a great gift.

For your mother Moms take care of us and make us feel loved. Show your mom some TLC in return by gifting her something that makes her feel like a queen. When we’re talking about women, a little self-care goes a long way.

1. A fuzzy robe: On chilly winter mornings, your mom will appreciate wrapping up in a nice cozy robe. So warm, it feels like a hug!

2. A spa day or massage: Does your mom seem tense

By CECELIA SWARTZ Scene Writer

Editor’s note: Cecelia Swartz is in the Not-So-Royal Shakespeare Company but was not involved with this production. Scene Editor Anna Falk was the Assistant Director for the production. Scene writer Natalie Allton also appeared in the production.

Last Saturday, for one night only, the Not-So-Royal Shakespeare (NSR) Company took its audience on a grand adventure of star-crossed lovers and blood feuds as they conquered one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays — in Texas. Enter “Rodeo and Juliet,” an abridged, hour-long version of “Romeo and Juliet” replete with southern accents, cowboy boots, pistol duels, square dancing and many, many “yes, ma’ams.” Directed by Mack Pittman and assistant directed by Anna Falk, the play turned a well-known tragedy into a laugh-out-loud comedy.

I need to start with the premise: welcome to Texas.

Every actor did a fantastic job with the exaggerated, almost corny Southern accents. To complement that, the costuming was all jeans, flannels, cowboy boots and hats.

There was impressive square and swing dancing choreographed by Megan Sherry and Rachel Johnson. They all also carried pistols which became the murder weapons in a duel between Tybalt (John Donaruma) and Mercutio (Sam Capodicci). Romeo (Libby Garnett) was banished

recently? Get her some much-needed relaxation with a gift card to your local spa. Let her get her nails done or spend some time in the sauna. She’ll appreciate it.

For your brother Where would we be without our brothers? I know I can always count on mine for a fist bump and life advice — and isn’t that what they’re there for? Return the favor with a gift he’ll love (and another fist bump if you’re up for it).

1. A forklift certification t-shirt: For some reason, almost every boy I know is forklift certified ... maybe they’d appreciate displaying their incredible accomplishment across their chest in the form of a stylish t-shirt.

2. A wall flag: Every guy needs this classic staple dude dorm decor, but it’s up to you to determine the design.

Does he want a funny meme or a stylish tapestry? One thing’s for certain, Sundays are for The Observer.

For your sister As a sister myself, I know we’re pretty cool. Just like brothers, we’re there to lend a helping hand, but we often do it in style. Show her how much you appreciate her and gift your sister something as cool, niche and esoteric as she is.

1. A funky collection of claw clips: If she has hair that’s long enough to be pinned up, I guarantee she’d love a unique claw clip. Patterns are cool, but some of them come in the shape of animals and fruit. Show her how well you know her and get something that reflects her colorful personality.

2. A pack of tarot cards: Has she been texting you too much for guy advice? Outsource the “dump him” advice through the use of tarot cards. (Trust me, it’ll make her get off of TikTok.) For your friends If you’re looking for a gender-neutral gift or something that everybody loves, you can never go wrong with these choices.

1. A puzzle or card game to do together: A cozy indoor activity is a great excuse to spend time together. If you gift a puzzle or a fun deck of cards, it’s an invitation to play together!

2. A framed picture: You could take this in a silly direction (think: printed portrait of Danny DeVito) or you could make it as sentimental as possible (think: picture of the two of you abroad). A framed picture is a great reminder of how much you love this person and also happens to be great decor.

For your favorite college student To parents and alumni, if you’re still at a loss for what to get your college student, look no further.

1. Notre Dame/SMC/HCC gear: You can never go wrong with this one. Hockey jerseys, sweatshirts, pennants, you name it, anything goes.

2. A cordless vacuum cleaner: Let your college student clean up their own messes, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have to help them.

Read more online at ndsmcobserver.com

to Oklahoma after killing Tybalt to avenge Mercutio after said duel. Each character had a red or blue bandana representing either the Capulets or the Montagues, the two warring families in the play, and even the lighting changed hues based on who was onstage. It served to both highlight the feud and create comedy in a ridiculous sense of irony.

Why are they fighting? We don’t know, but in this overexaggerated caricature of the South, this reasonless feud is both tragic and funny. You laugh with every “yeehaw” and then you feel a little bad for laughing when one of the characters gets shot over an insult which is never fully explained. In a sense, there is a tragic poignancy underlying the comedic commentary of the play.

It did feel like the point of the play was the bit. The audience was not there to see a traditional take on the famous tragedy of the star-crossed lovers, they were there to see “Romeo and Juliet: Cowboy Edition” and on that front, “Rodeo and Juliet” delivered. Every acting and tech choice fully committed to the concept and it was so, so funny.

Molly O’Toole as Juliet gave a standout performance in her NSR debut. O’Toole portrayed the young Juliet as a vivacious, independent girl just coming of age, chaffing under the constraints of her mother’s expectations that she marry Paris (Isabel Olesinksi) and determined to take control of her life and marry Romeo. She drove her own romance, pursuing Romeo as much as he pursued

her and it was refreshing to see. I especially appreciated the choice to have her lead the country swing duet with Romeo during the party scene where they met.

Traditionally in a partner dance, leading is the man’s role.

An additional shoutout needs to be given to Natalie Allton for her role as the Nurse. She painted a perfect maternal figure to balance Juliet’s almost wild independence. Katiebelle Thompson as Lady Capulet became an imposing Southern dame who had all the characters a little afraid and “yes ma’am” -ing at her left and right. I also need to mention Jake Rush for his brief but funny scene as the apothecary who sells Romeo poison after Romeo hears of Juliet’s death during his exile in Oklahoma. Hunched over in a bathrobe, he provided one of the last laugh-out-loud moments with his reluctance to sell Romeo poison.

Overall, “Rodeo and Juliet” was an amusing take on a classic play which was exactly what I was expecting when I heard “Romeo and Juliet” with cowboys but also completely surprising. I was expecting cowboy boots and Southern accents, but the degree to and dexterity with which the cast committed to the concept blew me away. I have said it above and I will say it again, the play was genuinely funny. I immensely enjoyed this short and punchy tragedy-turned-comedy take on one of Shakespeare’s best-known shows.

Contact Claire Lyons at clyons3@nd.edu

Contact Cecelia Swartz at cswartz@nd.edu TREY PAINE | The Observer

8

SPORTS

THE OBSERVER | MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2023 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM

SPORTS AUTHORITY

ND MEN’S BASKETBALL

McGuinness: Top 10 Irish fall 2023 sports moments Andrew McGuinness Sports Editor

The 2023 fall semester is nearly over. A lot has happened over the last few months across ever y Irish sports team. So, let’s look back on the action and rev isit the top 10 plays from this semester across Notre Dame athletics (so far).

10. Women’s Basketball Pulls Off Gutsy Comeback in Knox ville Beating No. 20 Tennessee in the inaugural ACC/SEC Challenge would’ve been impressive enough on its ow n. But Niele Ivey’s squad pulled out the v ictor y in the toughest of circumstances.

On the road, dow n three of their best players, the Irish erased a 16-point deficit to pull out the w in. Four Irish players scored in double figures, led by senior forwards Maddy Westbeld and Natalija Marshall at 15 points apiece. Westbeld also finished w ith a double-double.

9. Hockey Takes Down BU Terrier Notre Dame hockey has had an up-and-dow n experience when facing top teams this season. One of the high water marks came against No. 4 Boston Universit y. Though the series wouldn’t end well, the Irish got off on the right foot w ith a 4-1 v ictor y at Compton Family Ice Arena.

After falling behind 1-0, the Irish scored three times in the final 11 minutes of the first period to grab control of the game.

The Irish power-play clicked at a 40% rate thanks to goals from senior defenseman Drew Bavaro and freshman for ward Danny Nelson. The ever-reliable graduate student goaltender Ryan Bischel stopped 43 of 44 shots as well.

8. Marcon Up to the Task at St. Andrews It would be understandable if even the best golfer was over whelmed by playing at historic St. Andrews Links in Scotland. Angelo Marcon wasn’t phased though. The senior led the way for the Irish in the firstever St. Andrews Collegiate tournament, finishing in fourth place at 4-under par.

Marcon’s 64 in the second round of the indiv idual portion of the competition was tied for the lowest singleround score of the event.

7. Estimé Runs All Over Stanford If Notre Dame’s regularseason finale was the last collegiate game for junior running back Audric Estimé, he certainly went off on a high note. The NFL hopeful showed off his skillset w ith a gaudy 238-yard performance that threatened Notre Dame’s singlegame rushing record. That was a career-high, as were the whopping 4 touchdow ns Estimé recorded. His fourth broke Notre Dame’s singleseason record for rushing touchdow ns (18).

6. Women’s Soccer Pulls Off Improbable Rally at Duke As time wound dow n in Notre Dame women’s soccer’s Sept. 21 clash w ith then-No. 16 Duke, all the Irish were hoping for was to avoid the worst-case scenario. Despite outshooting the Blue Dev ils 10-4 in the second half, Notre Dame trailed 1-0 w ith 5 minutes remaining. Just 7 seconds later, though, graduate student midfielder Kiki Van Zanten slammed in a caroming ball at the back post to level the score.

Just salvaging a draw would’ve represented a success.

But the Irish didn’t stop fighting. Just 93 seconds later, sophomore midfielder Leah K lenke picked the perfect time for her first goal of the season. Moments later, the final whistle sounded, etching arguably the team’s most impressive w in of the regular season into the books.

5. Slaggert Sets the Tone Against Michigan Breakout performances were sorely lacking last season from Irish hockey’s senior for ward Landon Slaggert. After being one of Notre Dame’s most productive scorers the prev ious two seasons, Slaggert’s production inexplicably cratered in 2022-23. But after scoring just 7 goals in that season, the captain entered Notre Dame’s highly anticipated weekend series w ith No. 13 Michigan w ith 10 goals. He immediately increased that tally w ith a gorgeous breakaway finish less than seven minutes in.

Slaggert then erased any hopes of a Wolverine comeback by chipping in a spectacular feed from Nelson in the waning moments of the second period.

4.

Burton Starts Shrewsberr y Era Right The focus on Notre Dame men’s basketball is all about the future. However, there are some bright spots in the present to be found.

The Irish didn’t have to wait to see the first one, which came courtesy of freshman guard Markus Burton in the team’s season-opener. In a game against Niagara that was there for the taking, Burton grabbed control.

He finished his first collegiate game w ith an Irish debut record of 29 points on an efficient 11-20 shooting performance.

3. Hidalgo’s Hot Start Burton wasn’t the only freshman guard to make waves in South Bend, though.

Haddonfield, New Jersey native Hannah Hidalgo has lit the college basketball world on fire from the moment she stepped onto the court.

Hidalgo put up 31 in her Irish debut in Paris and has tallied at least 13 points in each of her first seven games, exceeding 20 in all but one. It w ill be exciting to see what she can do w ith junior guard Oliv ia Miles once she returns from a torn ACL at some point in the not-too-distant future.

2.

Shootout Heroics Send Irish Men’s Soccer to College Cup After receiv ing a firstround bye and dispatching Kentuck y 2-0 in a dominant effort, things went dow n to the w ire in the next two legs of Notre Dame’s NCA A Tournament journey. First, the Irish went on their heels in their third-round match when sophomore midfielder KK Baffour received a red card in the 26th minute.

But the Irish held Western Michigan scoreless in regulation and through the first two rounds of the shootout thanks to a save by senior goalkeeper Br yan Dowd and a post hit. A ll four Irish players found the back of the net on their kicks, w ith senior forward Daniel Russo finishing it off.

Six days later, Russo found himself in the same spot. For the second time in as many meetings in 2023, Notre Dame and Indiana see TOP TEN PAGE 10

Irish fall in ACC opener

By TYLER REIDY Associate Sports Editor

Facing its first ranked opponent of the season, Notre Dame men’s basketball lost its ACC opener Saturday afternoon. The Irish dropped 62-49 at No. 8 Miami, moving to 3-4 on the still-young campaign. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes, despite posting a season-low scoring total, advanced to 6-1 and 4-0 at home in Coral Gables.

Notre Dame did its best work on the offensive glass, securing 15 rebounds on Miami’s end of the f loor.

Sophomore forward Tae Davis paced the interior Irish success, adding 10 boards to 12 points for his first double-double at Notre Dame. However, aside from junior guard J.R. Konieczny, who tallied 15 points on 4-7 shooting from distance, the Irish struggled to score the ball efficiently. Overall, Notre Dame went 18-63 (28.6%) from the field and 6-32 (18.8%) from threepoint land.

On the home side, Miami needed only 18 attempts from deep to connect on 7 triples. With a 25-54 (46.3%) showing from the f loor, the Hurricanes led from the 6:50 mark until the game’s end, riding a 12-0 run before halftime to initially break away from the Irish.

Norchad Omier delivered a 13-point, 13-rebound double-double, with Matthew Cleveland (14) and Nijel Pack (13) joining him as double-figure scorers.

“They got a bunch of different guys they can go to and get hot,” head coach Micah Shrewsberry said of the Hurricanes. “Any of those four guards that they play can break you down off the dribble and get into the paint and force those rotations. There’s nobody to pick and choose who to rotate from. You gotta rotate from everybody. And when they move it, now you’re just scrambling and that’s how you’ve gotta play in college basketball. You’ve gotta get people scrambling. They have the ability to make you scramble because they’ve got so many guys that can attack off the bounce.”

Over the game’s first 9 minutes, Davis and Konieczny registered each of Notre Dame’s first 14 points. The Irish led 12-7

early before pulling ahead at 20-19 on two three-pointers from freshman guard Braeden Shrewsberry.

However, Miami then embarked on its aforementioned run, punishing the Irish with its transition game and opening up a 3322 advantage in the half’s final minute.

“We’re obviously fighting. You can’t doubt our effort. With the young guys, their growth and being able to sustain mental focus — we’re sustaining physical effort,” Micah Shrewsberry said. “But we’ve gotta sustain mental focus for longer periods, longer stretches.

And that’s where, these last two games, that’s where it’s gotten us.”

As the halfway point approached, Notre Dame found some reason to believe.

Freshman guard Markus Burton made his first bucket on an elbow jumper before inbounding to Davis on a catch-andshoot play that beat the halftime horn.

Burton, Notre Dame’s leading scorer on the season, failed to reach 10 points for the second consecutive game at Miami. But, amidst his 6-point effort on Saturday, moments like that exemplified his ability to diversely impact the game.

Burton’s head coach cited the Hurricanes’ defensive hedge as a challenge for the youngster.

“We ask a lot of [Burton].

You know, Bensley Joseph’s a really good defender, where I think some of the shots at the rim Markus usually makes, he challenges those really well,” Shrewsberry said. “But he was more of a how we needed him to play.

He had 6 assists, he got it moving, he got other guys shots [and] he got other guys the ball ... He’s keeping improving, he’s listening, he’s competing and we’re asking a lot of him playing 33 minutes as a freshman.”

Coming out of the break, both teams traded baskets, allowing Miami to uphold its multi-possession lead.

However, another secondchance score from Davis narrowed the gap to 4034 at the under-16 media timeout.

But that was as close as the Irish would come in the see MBB PAGE 10

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CROSSWORD | WILL SHORTZ

9

HOROSCOPE | EUGENIA LAST Happy Birthday: Don’t stop focusing until you are satisfied with your results. Don’t trust anyone to take care of your responsibilities for you. Learn from the experience and knowledge you encounter, and you’ll make better decisions. Restrict those who have inconsistent and unsupportive opinions of your plans. Put your energy where it counts, and let your intelligence help you maintain balance and integrity.

Everything will fall into place. Your numbers are 6, 14, 22, 29, 33, 41, 45.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Consider making yourself more marketable. An openminded approach to technology and what’s trending will help you decide what direction is best for you. Discuss your intentions with someone you love, and develop plans that bring you closer to a common goal.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Look at your life and decide what you want to keep and what you can do without. Distance yourself from situations that bring you down or cost you financially. Be wise regarding money matters, and invest more in yourself and what’s important to you.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Pay attention to your surroundings. Fix what is not working for you and make personal improvements that lift your spirits. Do the work yourself, and you’ll feel pride and gratitude in what you do and accomplish.

Romance is on the rise.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): An unexpected emotional response will prompt you to rethink your next move. Protect yourself from gossip and those trying to use you to their advantage. Rely on your intelligence to recognize who you can count on to help make a positive contribution to your community.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You’ll find pleasure in playtime or being with someone you love. Brighten up your surroundings or host an event that gives you a chance to share what you’ve worked so hard to achieve. Make your intentions and feelings clear. Personal improvements are favored.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Confusion will occur if you let others interfere. Make decisions conducive to your peace of mind and a friendly atmosphere. Don’t feel like you must participate in something dreary or that makes you feel uncomfortable.

Protect your reputation and your physical and emotional well-being.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Act fast and on your behalf. Refuse to let someone dictate what you can do or say. Go the distance, get the truth and press forward in a direction that leads to like-minded people and projects you care about. You can make a difference.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Live, learn and experience life. Study your options, form your opinions and do what’s best for you. When opportunity knocks, open the door and take advantage of whatever comes your way. Don’t let regret play a role because you neglect to act.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don’t let an emotional situation push you in the wrong direction. Be honest about how you feel and what you want. Don’t let anyone exploit you or offer pretenses for their benefit. Anger is a waste of time; focus on positive change.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Set your sights on what you want and make personal adjustments that protect you from anyone who doesn’t respect or share your values.

Observe the big picture, and you’ll discover how to validate changes that keep you and those closest to you safe.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Get the lowdown before you decide to part with your money or possessions. Evaluate what’s worthwhile and decide how to invest in your future. Look for a simple solution that eliminates drama, and do your best to make it happen.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Engage in what’s new and exciting, be helpful and let go of what’s no longer valid. Gaining stability will transpire if you connect with people who share your enthusiasm. A practical plan and a desire for positive change will lead to more opportunities.

Birthday Baby: You are steadfast, open-minded and likable. You are detailed and ambitious.

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SPORTS

THE OBSERVER | MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2023 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM

FOOTBALL BOWL GAME

FOOTBALL TRANSFER PORTAL

Irish to meet OSU in Sun Bowl

By Observer Sports Staff

After a long Saturday of waiting, No. 16 Notre Dame now knows that it w ill end its 2023 football season against No. 19 Oregon State in the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl. The contest w ill take place on Dec. 29 at the Sun Bowl in El Paso, Texas, home of the Universit y of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Miners of Conference USA. Notre Dame has played in the bowl once before, beating Miami 33-17 in 2010.

Oregon State is 2-0 in its Sun Bowl histor y, beating Missouri 39-38 in 2006 and Pittsburgh 3-0 in 2008. The Beavers are 2-0 against the Irish all-time, recording

Top Ten CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

played to a 1-1 stalemate in regulation.

Overtime prov ided no closure.

Indiana’s first shooter hit the post w ith his attempt, followed by eight straight makes across both sides.

MBB CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

second half. The Hurricanes scored 6 consecutive points to go up 46-34, keeping their lead at 9 points or larger for the remainder of the afternoon.

Still, after Konieczny’s second made three of the second half brought the score to 58-49 with 5:21 remaining, Miami’s offense stalled out.

The Hurricanes posted only 4 points within that final 5:21, handing Notre Dame an engraved invitation back into the game.

And yet, as the final score would indicate, the Irish missed the boat in South Florida. Notre Dame finished the game by missing 10 consecutive shots, each of the last four from behind the three-point line. In the end, the Hurricanes dragged their way to a 13-point win, departing significantly from their scoring average of 86 points per game.

“We can guard them. Even for a group of freshmen and sophomores — I don’t know if any of them [are] 21, maybe one of them — but they’re believing in what we’re talking about. And we’re sitting in the stance and guarding,” Coach

Flores Jr. leads latest exodus to transfer portal junior tight end Mitchell Evans had more receptions than Flores’ 27. Only Evans and senior wide receiver Chris Tyree (who also entered the portal on Monday) outpaced his 392 receiving yards.

He also made several key plays, recording seven receptions for 20+ yards and critical catches for a touchdown against Ohio State and a two-point conversion against Duke, in the fourth quarter of each game. Flores’ departure also follows the dismissal of wide receivers coach Chansi Stuckey, whom Notre Dame parted ways with on Tuesday.

Sophomore Holden Staes had emerged as Notre Dame’s top tight-end after Evans’ seasonending torn ACL on Oct. 28. Staes wasn’t a huge factor in Notre Dame’s attack for most of his time

in South Bend, exceeding two receptions or 20 yards in a game just once. However, he showcased his potential in a four-catch, 116-yard performance at NC State that featured a pair of touchdowns.

Sophomore Eli Raridon figures to be Notre Dame’s top tight-end for its bowl game. The Irish currently have one tight end, threestar recruit Jack Larsen, in their 2024 recruiting class, according to 247Sports.

The Irish also lost senior safety Ramon Henderson to the portal on Thursday. Henderson played a rotational role in Notre Dame’s secondary, missing just one game over the last three seasons.

Henderson recorded 14 tackles, including a career-high 8 solo, this season. He also forced a fumble and recorded an interception.

1. Fourth-and-16 There’s no further explanation needed in the headline. Though it ultimately wound up being overshadowed by the letdow ns at Louisv ille and Clemson, this improbable 4th-dow n situation couldn’t have had higher stakes in the moment. The Irish desperately needed a w in to stabilize

after the demoralizing defeat to Ohio State the week prior, not to mention salvage their College Football Playoff hopes.

But as Hartman scanned the field for an open target, no one created separation.

Instead, Hartman found open space himself, sprinting for just enough yardage to move the chains. Estimé

took the next play to the house and the Irish escaped w ith an impressive road w in against a then-undefeated Blue Dev ils team.

moral victories — let me tell you that much. I wish it would say ‘MV’ next to it instead of ‘L,’ but there aren’t any. But we gotta learn from this and we gotta keep getting better.”

This week, the Irish will have a chance to tune up for another difficult matchup on the road. Notre Dame will

host Western Michigan of the Mid-American Conference on Tuesday at 7 p.m. before playing the road leg of a two-game stretch against Big East teams.

The road trip takes the Irish to No. 3 Marquette for a latenight tip on Saturday, as the Golden Eagles look to bounce back from a disappointing,

blowout w ins in the 2001 Fiesta Bowl and 2004 Insight Bowl.

After beating Wake Forest on Nov. 18, graduate student Sam Hartman explicitly talked about hav ing t wo games left in the season.

With Notre Dame w rapping up its regular season the next week at Stanford, the Irish quarterback may have tipped his hand about his status for the game.

However, Hartman’s decision to play has not been confirmed one way or the other. Oregon State w ill be led by interim head coach Kefense Hy nson after head coach Jonathan Smith left for Michigan State in late November.

By Observer Sports Staff

Russo, who scored the lone Irish goal of regulation w ith a beautifully placed free-kick, made it nine w ith a shot to the right side and an iconic celebration as delirious spectators poured onto the A lumni Stadium pitch to celebrate Notre Dame’s second trip to the men’s College Cup in the last three years.

Shrewsberry said. “Transition killed us. But that’s gotta give you some belief, for us to come in here and out-rebound them, we’re even in turnovers, we make one less three than them — and we shot a boatload of them — but we shoot more free throws.

It’s all positive. There ain’t no

The week after the end of the college football season used to be a quiet time for Notre Dame.

That is no longer the case. With four more players departing in the last 24 hours, Notre Dame has lost nine players to the portal this year.

Freshman wide receiver Rico Flores Jr.’s departure is arguably the greatest combination of shock and loss of production. Of the three four-star receivers the Irish brought in last year, only Jaden Greathouse remains after Braylon James hit the portal yesterday.

James didn’t factor into Notre Dame’s offensive production at all in 2023.

Flores, on the other hand, emerged as a key piece. Only

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in-state loss at Wisconsin.

In the big picture, Notre Dame will play seven of its next eight games at Purcell Pavilion in South Bend. The Irish will return to ACC action on Dec. 30 against Virginia.

Contact Tyler Reidy at treidy3@nd.edu

SPORTS

Hockey CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

“For me, individual accolades are meaningless,” Jackson said.

“I’d rather have our team play like that … consistency is the biggest thing we need to find and tonight was probably our best 60-minute hockey game.”

The complete effort for the Irish began with an excellent start. Notre Dame outshot Michigan 6-1 in the game’s first 7 minutes.

“Definitely good to get off to a fast start,” Notre Dame captain Landon Slaggert said. “I thought our start was awesome from the team and it really just carried on throughout the game.”

Slaggert was the first to capitalize on the early momentum. The senior broke through for the first goal of the game, powering down the wing and tucking the puck past Jake Barczewski’s right pad.

Michigan mustered a response when its top-five powerplay tied the game shortly after.

On a 5-on-3 power-play, sophomore forward TJ Hughes sifted a point shot through traffic that beat Notre Dame goalie Ryan Bischel. It was to be the only blemish in a 27-save performance for the Irish netminder.

With the game tied at one, Michigan looked at its most threatening. Faced with adversity, Notre Dame did what it could not in last week’s 6-1 loss to Boston College: pick itself up

M Soccer CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

seven-game winless streak against Indiana being extended — officially, a match ending in a penalty shootout is considered a draw — certainly didn’t matter for Russo, Dowd and company. It was far from

NDSMCOBSERVER.COM | MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2023 | THE OBSERVER

off the mat and respond.

Indeed, the Irish barely had gotten their legs back under them from the penalty kill when junior forward Justin Janicke put them back out in front 2-1. Freshman forward Brennan Ali started the scoring effort with a smashing hit in the neutral zone. Janicke followed up on the broken play to hammer the puck five-hole from the blue paint.

“I think that’s one thing that this group’s learning, is how to be resilient and how to respond,” Slaggert said. “I think that’s what mature teams do.”

Notre Dame’s resilience presented itself in the team’s consistency. The Irish came out of the locker room in the second period and controlled the game. They outshot Michigan 13-5 and added two goals — one early and one late — to take a 4-1 lead to the third. Graduate student forward Patrick Moynihan scored his fourth of the year 53 seconds into the frame and Slaggert scored again in the final 2 minutes.

With 2 more goals tonight, Slaggert pushed his team-leading total to 12, which is secondbest in the country. With his third 2-goal game of the year, Slaggert is no longer simply off to a hot start: he’s playing like one of the best scorers in the country.

“He’s been our most consistent player all year,” Jackson said. “He’s not looking for personal accolades, he just goes out and plays as hard as he

a dominant display from the home side. Indiana outshot the Irish 25-11 and took 10 of the game’s 11 corner kicks.

But when it mattered most, Notre Dame kept their cool.

“I think you’re as confident as you can be going into PKs,” said Irish head coach Chad Riley said after the game. “It’s obviously razor-thin margins,

can.”

Notre Dame scored early and late again in the third, never taking its foot on the gas.

Junior forward Tyler Carpenter notched his fourth from freshman forward Maddox Fleming and, with less than a minute to go, freshman forward Danny Nelson scored his third. More importantly, Notre Dame possessed the puck and dictated play. The Irish did not allow a single high-danger shot in the third period. Notre Dame was consistent on both sides of the puck.

“Obviously we are young, but we are starting to find that and get into our groove,” Slaggert said. “That consistency is something Coach [Jackson] talks about quite a bit, so we are starting to find that and hopefully we can keep that going.”

11

Saturday’s contest was a classic Michigan-Notre Dame affair: bitter and close. Sore from the previous night’s loss, the Wolverines responded with a 2-1 victory.

“Give [the Wolverines] credit. They elevated their game,” Jackson said. “I didn’t think we played poorly, but we lost our juice after the second goal. We weren’t as effective.”

That second goal, off the tape of Michigan sophomore forward Dylan Duke, stood up as the game-winner. Scored with 4:50 remaining in the second

period, Michigan took advantage of a rare blatant Notre Dame miscue to take the lead for good. After graduate student defenseman Ryan Siedem turned the puck over on the wall, Duke snatched it, quickly moving it to Hughes in the middle of the ice. After another pass to Gavin Brindley, Duke finished the tic-tac-toe play on the back door.

Notre Dame had its chances in the third, including a late power play, but Michigan proved better defensively. The Wolverines challenged Notre Dame’s ability to create offense throughout the game and Barczewski backstopped those efforts with 28 saves.

“We didn’t have as many clean exits and clean entrances as we did last night,” Jackson said. “But give them credit for clogging things up more, making it hard on us.”

Needing a win to stay above .500 and playing in its last game before a lengthy holiday break, Michigan entered the game hungry. Early on, the Wolverines were far more of a physical presence than Friday.

Chicago Blackhawks draft pick Frank Nazar III struck for his 8th goal just 6 minutes into the contest, giving the Wolverines a 1-0 lead. Michigan built momentum after the goal, controlling play for much of the first period. Notre Dame still managed 12 shots on Barczewski in the frame, but not with ease.

The tide turned, if briefly, late in the first period. Notre

Dame’s top line of Slaggert, Nelson and Moynihan put together the game’s most dominating shift, pinning Michigan in its own zone for about a minute and a half. Michigan looked as if it had weathered the storm when it finally regained possession. Nelson and Moynihan, at the end of their shift, skated to the bench — but Slaggert did not. He came across the ice and leveled a hit on Michigan defenseman Marshall Warren, dislodging the puck. Justin Janicke intercepted it and found Strand on the back side for a tap-in.

“I give our guys credit for coming back and tying the game,” Jackson said. “But we didn’t build off that.”

The Strand goal and its preceding moments would be Notre Dame’s highlight of the game. In the second period, Michigan quelled any momentum the Irish attempted to build before eventually taking the lead on Duke’s goal.

The opportunity to earn a second conference sweep over a hated rival slipped through Notre Dame’s hands. But what the Irish showed on the ice was likely more important than the final scores. The strength of Michigan’s play Saturday showed something too: winning two is incredibly tough.

“I expect there will be a lot of splits this year in the Big Ten,” Jackson remarked.

but I know there’s a lot of belief, a lot of confidence in those moments, that does make you feel good.”

Contrary to the Hoosiers’ dominance on the stat sheet, it was the Irish who opened the scoring in the first half. Russo found the net for his fourth goal of the season on a free kick.

His effort sailed over the Indiana wall and into the back of the net, sending the capacity crowd at Alumni Stadium into raptures.

But the Hoosiers didn’t lay down after Russo put the Irish in front. Indiana created plenty of chances, eventually finding paydirt when a Patrick McDonald strike from range

hit home in the 63rd minute.

With the score knotted at one, an already tense match reached a boiling point.

Twelve of the game’s 22 fouls came after McDonald’s equalizer. Both teams created chances. The Hoosiers came especially close thanks to an 88th-minute strike off the crossbar from Sam Sarver.

But in the end, penalties were required to separate the sides.

Each of of Notre Dame’s takers from Sunday took the ball again against the Hoosiers.

Sophomore defender Mitch Ferguson, playing in his first game since Oct. 17, slid into the rotation and converted as well.

But nobody’s shot mattered more than Russo’s, who went to the same side as his first-half free kick.

He made no mistake.

Shrugging his shoulders and outstretching his arms, Russo didn’t even crack a smirk.

His team and the student section put him in the eye of a field storm. He did, however, allow a smile as he addressed the gathered students after the game.

“Two more games,” yelled Russo, with a little more hoarseness in his voice than his postgame media availability betrayed. “But when we get there, we ain’t f*cking losing!”

Saturday: Michigan Notre Dame 1

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THE OBSERVER | MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2023 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM

ND MEN’S SOCCER

Irish men’s soccer reaches third College Cup with shootout deja vu

By J.J. POST Associate Sports Editor

MEGHAN LANGE | The Observer

Notre Dame men’s soccer team celebrates their quarterfinal win over Indiana. After going 1-1 in regulation and overtime, a 5-4 shootout win sent the Irish to the College Cup for the third time in program history.

It was impossible to escape the deja vu for Notre Dame men’s soccer on Saturday night.

After 110 minutes without a conclusive winner, the Irish fate entered the clapping hands of Bryan Dowd, the senior goalkeeper eagerly bouncing from left to right on the goal line.

There were f lashbacks to the team’s match against Western Michigan one round prior. The ten-men Irish clawed and scratched their way to a penalty shootout win over the Broncos just to reach this stage.

Perhaps the team’s veteran conjured memories of Notre Dame’s quarterfinal victory against Pittsburgh almost two years to the day prior. Under the shadow of Frank Eck Stadium, Dowd made back-toback stops to lift the Irish to their second-ever College Cup. It was the same story on

Saturday. Indiana’s first penalty taker, Joey Maher pushed his effort past Dowd’s outstretched arm and off the left goalpost. Alumni Stadium erupted as the ball caromed back out. The ball was in Notre Dame’s court. And just like last week, just like December 2021, every Notre Dame shooter put the ball in the back of the net.

One Irish player after another converted until the Irish secured a 5-4 shootout win to send them back to college soccer’s pinnacle.

If you were to ask senior forward Daniel Russo, the shootout plan was always as simple as that.

“I’m pretty sure I said out loud, ‘Dowd’s going to save at least one, and we’re going to make all five, so it doesn’t matter.’ That’s the faith we have in each other. I know Bryan Dowd’s going to step up big when it matters,” Russo said.

Notre Dame’s now see M SOCCER PAGE 11

HOCKEY

Irish hockey splits with No. 13 Michigan

By RYAN MURPHY Sports Writer

Trevor Janicke gleaned a lesson from this weekend.

“I think we saw what we are capable of,” the Irish graduate student forward said. “We’ve known, this whole year, ever since training camp, what we can do and what we are going to do, but we just need to find ways to be consistent with it and do it every period, every shift.”

While there is work to be done, Notre Dame hockey was perhaps at its most consistent in a split with No. 13 Michigan.

Friday night featured Notre Dame’s strongest effort of the season, a 6-1 win that earned the Irish coaching staff a dazzling milestone win. Despite the 2-1 loss Saturday, Notre Dame continued its strong play.

“When we are connected as a team, I feel like we are personally unstoppable,” senior forward Hunter Strand said.

“Just moving forward, we need to figure out how to bring that every night.”

That unstoppable potential was on display this weekend

more than ever. Notre Dame physically imposed its will on the visiting Wolverines for a full 60 minutes on Friday, turning Compton Family Ice Arena into a party. On Saturday, faced with pushback from the Wolverines, there were still moments when the Irish dominated — including a bonerattling hit by captain Landon Slaggert to set up the lone goal

by Strand.

“When we are going on all cylinders, we are unstoppable,” Janicke echoed.

Admittedly, performing on all cylinders at all times is exceptionally challenging in the Big Ten. With five of the league’s seven teams ranked in the USCHO.com top 20, there are no nights off. Yet, the result this weekend cements Notre Dame as a true contender in the conference. With 15 points in eight games, the Irish sit in third. They trail only secondplace Wisconsin and first-place Michigan State, who they will travel to play next weekend.

Finding consistency against such a strong schedule will continue to be the challenge for Notre Dame. But the Irish took a step towards that goal

this weekend and there’s still plenty of hockey left to play.

“It’s a long season,” Janicke said. “Our end goal is not to be in first place in the Big Ten at Christmas. Our end goal is to be there at the end of the year and then obviously playoffs and the national championship as well.”

Friday: Notre Dame 6, Michigan 1 As the final buzzer sounded on Friday night, Irish skaters piled over the bench and skated to meet their goaltender.

After the usual assortment of head-taps and back-pats, each skated back to the bench. One by one, they took the gloves off their right hand and shook hands with head coach Jeff Jackson.

In his 18th year at the helm, Jackson held a record of 399252-73 behind the Irish bench before the weekend. With a 6-1 victory over rival Michigan, Jackson and longtime assistant coaches Andy Slaggert and Paul Pooley, recorded milestone victory number 400. see HOCKEY PAGE 11

MEGHAN LANGE | The Observer

Irish freshman forward Brennan Ali (13) races to the puck in Notre Dame’s 6-1 defeat of Michigan at Compton Family Ice Arena on Dec. 1.