The Hoya: The Guide: September 2, 2016

the guide FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

stranger georgetown

DECLASSIFIED

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ubstances to promote illogical thinking and impulsiveness to the point where the recipient would be discredited in public, materials which will produce the signs and symptoms of recognized diseases in a reversible way so that they may be used for malingering, materials and methods which will produce amnesia, physical methods of producing shock and confusion over extended periods of time, substances which produce physical disablement such as paralysis of the legs, substances which alter personality structure in such a way that the tendency of the recipient to become dependent upon another person is enhanced, a knockout pill … which will provide a maximum of amnesia and a material which … will make it impossible for a man to perform any physical activity whatsoever.” — Declassified CIA document See FEATURED, B2

FEATURED

GUIDE Frank Ocean New Release Frank Ocean released his longawaited sophomore album, along with print and visual components.

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McCartney at Verizon Center Beatles legend Paul McCartney blended fan favorites with new material Aug. 9.

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SPORTS Football Opens Season

The football team looks to win its opener against nonconference opponent Davidson.

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SPORTS DC Restaurant Guide Step off the beaten path and discover some of the capital’s best eateries.

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‘War Dogs’ Falls Flat Despite its star-studded cast, Todd Phillips’ latest film misses its mark.

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Men’s Soccer Faces Test The men’s soccer team travels to No. 7 Maryland looking to win its first game this season.

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the guide

THE HOYA

friday, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

FEATURE, from B1 NETFLIX

“Stranger Things,” Netflix’s hottest original release of the summer, is an eight-part sci-fi series based on the disappearance of a young boy and the efforts of his middle school friends to find him, aided by a girl who has developed telepathy as a result of CIA experimentation and whose story may not be as fictional as it appears.

STRANGER THINGS ON THE HILLTOP John Miller Hoya Staff Writer

In just over one month since its debut, the Netflix original series “Stranger Things” has received critical acclaim, captivated viewers and become an ever-trending topic on social media with its depiction of the fallout from a government experiments with mind control during the Cold War. The tribulations of the superpower-wielding test subject, a girl known as Eleven, in an experimental laboratory may appear to be pure science fiction, though the experiments conducted resemble those of the CIA’s top-secret MKUltra project, which involved the Georgetown University Hospital in its research.

The brainchild of Matt and Ross Duffer, “Stranger Things” incorporates many aspects of ’80s pop culture, drawing thematically on the works of fiction masterminds including Steven King, George Lucas and Steven Spielberg. Set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Ind., during the mid-1980s, the supernatural sci-fi thriller follows the disappearance of a young boy, and the efforts of his three friends — aided by the mysteriously telepathic Eleven — to find him. Replete with man-eating monsters, interdimensional travel, superpowers and murderous government agents, the series may seem to be a work of pure fiction at first glance.

However, its depiction of the fictional Hawkins National Laboratory — a secret experimental laboratory operating under the Department of Energy to develop mind control and telekinesis in hopes of gaining Cold War superiority — is not as far from reality as it may appear. In fact, Georgetown’s campus played a complicit role in these kinds of covert experiments, according to a 1977 Washington Post article.

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halted in1973. In those 20 years, it had expanded into a multimillion-dollar program with 149 subprojects. In hopes of gaining an edge in the Cold War by making U.S. soldiers more resistant to Chinese and Russian torture methods, its general aim was to identify and develop drugs and procedures to be used in mind control by experimenting on human subjects without the necessity of disclosure or contract. Declassified documents reveal that the experiments included, but were not limited to, hypnosis, sensory deprivation, sexual abuse, torture and the administration of drugs such as LSD. While the general program is shocking in itself, it is Subproject 35 that is especially relevant to the Hilltop.

MK-HOYA

Subproject 35, as defined by declassified CIA documents, established “a cover organization for highly sensitive projects in the field of covert biological, chemical and radiological warfare.” This organization, the Geschickter Fund for Medical Research, was named after Charles Geschickter, a Georgetown University professor of pathology who, according to CIA documents, had top-secret clearance and received CIA funding to construct a new research wing in the Georgetown University Medical Center. A description of the proposed facility — the Gorman Annex — suggested that human patients and volunteers would be available for experimental purposes.

The testing began in March 1959.

Geschickter’s prominent role as both a professor of pathology at Georgetown and a leader in the fundraising campaign for the new research wing resulted in “his having control over 1/6 of the total space in addition to the basement and general out-patient facilities in the new wing,” according to CIA documents. Starting in 1951, his fund served as a secret cut-out, or intermediary, for contracts in the fields of covert chemical and biological warfare, and as a primary contractor for specific types of biological research.

A letter from then-CIA Deputy Director Richard Helms to cia Director Allen Dulles, dated Nov. 15, 1954, clarifies the funding channels for Subproject 35 at the GU Hospital. The CIA contributed $125,000, while another undisclosed element of the government matched the amount, to be used for the construction of the Gorman Annex using the Geschickter Fund as a cut-out. The primary stipulation in the letter is that “the Georgetown University Hospital will not be aware of Agency participation in either the building fund or future research projects” because “Agency employees would be able to participate in the work without the University being aware.” To this end, the plan

This layered arrangement left Georgetown administrators unaware of CIA participation in the Annex’s construction. ”

Fact or Fantasy

In “Stranger Things,” Eleven, played by Millie Bobby Brown, escapes from the CIA’s MKUltra program, where she was a test subject used for her telekinetic, electromagnetic and psychokinetic powers. During the testing, she is subjected to the sensory deprivation, the loss of identity and the destroyed paper trail that led her mother — an MKUltra test subject herself — to believe her daughter was miscarried.

The real-life MKUltra was run by the CIA during the 1950s and 1960s. The project officially ended more than 40 years ago, and the CIA has since openly acknowledged its existence. Prior to “Stranger Things,” the program has been frequently referenced in modern pop culture, from the animated show “Archer” to the eponymous song by Muse and, most notably, as the basis for the “Jason Bourne” book and film series.

The project, which began in the early 1950s, was officially sanctioned in 1953 and

ALEXANDER BROWN/THE HOYA

The Georgetown University Hospital housed top-secret CIA experimental research as part of an MKUltra subproject with the assistance of a notable professor. included three specially cleared employees to be integrated into Geschickter’s projects.

This layered arrangement left Georgetown administrators unaware of CIA participation in the Annex’s construction. By using the Geschickter Fund as an intermediary between the Hospital’s fundraising campaign and the CIA, the agency’s sponsorship of these sensitive projects was, by design, deniable, as no direct connection existed with the university.

Top Secret

Similar to the testing facilities featured in “Stranger Things,” the testing at Georgetown was concealed by a separate governmental entity. The show uses the Department of Energy in this role, while in reality, a letter from Helms to the chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, Lewis Strauss, indicated the CIA’s interest in the construction of a new research wing at Georgetown University Hospital to help in “defense against drugs and chemical techniques used in interrogation and brainwashing.” It goes on to state “the Georgetown University Hospital will be completely unwitting of our interest in them. The work which will be done in the facility will be handled through a cut-out which will conceal Agency sponsorship.”

Dulles himself later sent a letter to the chairman stating, “It will therefore be very much

NETFLIX

Millie Bobby Brown plays Eleven, a girl who served as a test subject in an experimental laboratory, the work of which involved attempts at mind control, telepathy and interdimensional travel in hopes of gaining an edge in the Cold War.

appreciated if our interest in this matter be withheld from the Hospital authorities.”

The project remained top-secret, as declassified files show it was deemed “highly undesirable from a policy and security point of view that contracts be signed indicating Agency or Government interest in this field of endeavor” since “in a great many instances the work must be conducted by individuals who are not and should not be aware of Agency interest.” The CIA also realized that leading physiologists, psychiatrists and biological scientists were fearful of entering into signed contracts regarding the performance of activities that could seriously damage their careers or mar their reputations. A key aspect of the plan was that any security fears were assuaged by the idea that any and all responsibility would fall on the hospital and its personnel.

Revealing Light

Following the public disclosure of certain aspects of the MKUltra program in the mid1970s, a congressional Hearing was held in 1977. During the testimony of CIA Director Stansfield Turner, Sen. Ted Kennedy (DMass.) spoke to his belief that it was “of general public interest, particularly for the people that are involved … to have some kind of awareness of whether they were used or were not used and how they were used.”

To this end, according to a 1977 Washington Post article by John Jacobs, the university was officially informed by the CIA that it had sheltered MKUltra experimentation in 1977. Georgetown University’s involvement had previously been rumored but remained unconfirmed. This was immediately followed by the release of thousands of documents pertaining to MKUltra under the Freedom of Information Act. These documents show that many highranking officials knew and approved of the Georgetown subproject specifically, including Dulles and Helms, who later became director himself. Dulles personally approved the agency’s contributions to the Geschickter Fund and received approval from President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s special committee on covert operations.

More complete records of the mind control experiments, aside from the few released in 2001, were destroyed in 1973 at the request of former MKUltra head Sidney Gottlieb, according to a 1999 New York Times article about his death. Following his career as head of MKUltra, Gottlieb received the Distinguished Intelligence Medal from the CIA and spent time running a leper hospital in India and working in a Virginia hospice center.

To some, “Stranger Things” may be no more than a gripping sci-fi homage to 1980s pop culture. However, its connection to the CIA’s top-secret MKUltra project is rooted in one of the darker chapters in the agency’s history, one to which Georgetown is invariably tied.

the guide

friday, September 2, 2016

THE HOYA

B3

FEATURE

Marcia Chatelain

The Music On My Playlist

‘I wish i knew how it felt to be free’ By nina simone

The title alone speaks to the beauty of this song. As a historian of black life and culture, I think about how people in the past, who never experienced freedom as citizens, imagined a different kind of freedom and claimed it for themselves. Every time I hear it, I think about Nina Simone’s own personal commitment to civil rights and her battle to realize existential freedom in a life that was filled with pain.

‘unsung psalm’ By tracy chapman In between listening to NSYNC and Destiny’s Child in college, I adored women’s folk music. Cue the acoustic guitars, feminism and rich lyrical structure! Seriously, Tracy Chapman was my generation’s Nina Simone, and she can make a song about dying make you hit “repeat.”

‘turn your lights down low’ By lauren hill feat. Bob marley I love a love song. Across all the genres, if the song is centered on the excitement of meeting someone or falling in love forever, I am all in. Bob Marley is great, and I love Lauryn Hill’s vocals in this song. I used to listen to this song all the time when I first met my husband.

‘I want to break free’ by queen Queen is in a category of its own. I love its performances, the choir-like vocal effects and the pure glam camp of it all. I remember when it was confirmed that Freddie Mercury died of AIDS in the early 1990s, and it was a really important moment for the disease’s visibility. Years later when I was in London on study abroad, I went to a ballet tribute to Freddie Mercury and Gianni Versace. It was magical.

‘9 to 5’

By dolly parton

Although I do not listen to much country music, this song is one of my all-time favorites. Dolly is telling the whole truth about what it is like to be a working person in a world that does not appreciate the 99 percent— the undervalued, exploited and struggling. I always raise my hands to the line: “It’s a rich man’s game, no matter what they call it/And you spend your life puttin’ money is his wallet.”

‘all i do is win’ by dj khaled feat. t-pain, ludacris, snoop dogg and rick ross This is my first choice for waking up, working out, walking to meetings or right before class.

Who doesn’t love a rap collaboration? I just joined Snapchat because of DJ Khaled’s inspirational messages, and, while I don’t live Khaled’s lifestyle, I can relate to the winning part!

Marcia Chatelain is an associate professor of African American studies and history.

WIKICOMMONS

BOYS DON’T CRY

Frank Ocean released his long-awaited follow-up to his critically acclaimed debut album, 2014’s “channel ORANGE.” In addition to ‘Blonde,’ the album, Ocean also put out an entirely seperate visual album and print magazine.

ocean'S Trifecta

Frank Ocean Makes a Powerful Return Tom Garzillo Hoya Staff Writer

Self-imposed exile seems to do something special for musicians.

In the wake of his infamous encounter with Taylor Swift at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, Kanye West retreated to Hawaii and crafted “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,” his most expressive and critically acclaimed album to date. During the winter months of 2006, Justin Vernon of Bon Iver isolated himself in a remote cabin in Wisconsin and composed the much-lauded album “For Emma, Forever Ago.” Following the release of 2012’s “channel ORANGE,” a celebrated, novel take on alternative R&B and soul, Frank Ocean disappeared from the public eye and left a void in the music world. As fans and critics alike eagerly waited the Los Angeles-based singer’s follow-up, countless whispers of impending release dates proved false. Days turned into weeks, which turned into months, which turned into years.

Some worried that Ocean was headed down the same path as singer-songwriter Lauryn Hill — that he would release just one album of bona fide musical genius, then vanish. The world longed for his ingightful voice, especially amid protests of police brutality and growing racial unrest nationwide. “channel ORANGE” proved that Ocean could pull listeners into his own vivid reality, and many longed to enter it again.

Hype for the album continued to swell, but Ocean was nowhere to be seen. There were only sporadic hints, mainly appearing on Ocean’s Tumblr page – his only active social media account – something was in the works. In November 2014, he posted a twominute snippet of a song titled “Memrise.”

It was the first Ocean solo track that anyone had heard in over two years.

While many took this as a sign that Ocean’s second LP was imminent, nothing came of it. Then, on April 6, 2015, Ocean posted a picture of himself sitting over a stack of magazines titled “Boys Don’t Cry.” It carried the cryptic caption: “I got two versions. I got twooo versions …” A representative confirmed with Billboard magazine the album and publication were both to be released in July.

July came and went. Ocean released nothing.

On Aug. 1, a video surfaced online appearing to show Ocean in some kind of workshop. Instrumentals could be heard playing faintly in the background of the black and white footage. After 18 days, the truth of the transmission was revealed: Ocean released his visual album, “Endless,” as an Apple music exclusive.

Forty-five minutes long, “Endless” consists solely of Ocean methodically crafting, then climbing, a lone spiral staircase. This visual component, while likely meant to reflect Ocean’s perfectionism — a trait that contributed to the four-year gap in his output — quickly grows monotonous.

Fortunately, Ocean’s stoic woodworking

is only one half of the project. The music of “Endless” begins with a hauntingly beautiful cover of the Isley Brothers’ “At Your Best (You Are Love).” Combining subdued production with stunning falsetto, the track is a fine reintroduction to everything that makes Ocean such a compelling artist.

The stark warehouse setting becomes a backdrop for the intricacies of each carefully curated sound, including Alex G’s lo-fi guitar work on “Wither,” subtle Daft Punk sampling on “In Here Somewhere” and the multilayered vocals on “Alabama.” The songs, some more complete than others, flow into one another almost seamlessly. They veer close to coming across as an amorphous collection of demos and B-sides, but Ocean’s raw musicality manages to hold everything together.

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It is an apt representation of Ocean’s relationship with fame and celebrity, his unwillingness to fully reveal himself to the clamoring masses.”

At the conclusion of the video, just as Ocean is finally climbing the staircase where he toiled away, everything abruptly vanishes. It is an apt representation of Ocean’s relationship with fame and celebrity, his unwillingness to fully reveal himself to the clamoring masses. Moreover, it reinforces that “Endless” is a journey rather than a destination.

Just one day later, the spacey musings of “Endless” became overshadowed by an even larger release from Ocean: “Blonde.” The true successor to “channel ORANGE” had finally arrived. Along with it, in four pop-up shops in cities around the globe, came the long prophesied magazine titled “Boys Don’t Cry.” Those expecting “Blonde” to boast the same maximalist, pop-leaning flavor of its predecessor may be somewhat disappointed; the instrumentals of the album, largely produced by Ocean himself, are often spare and subdued, many relying on just a keyboard and guitar. Drums are notably absent on many tracks.

While this stripped-down aesthetic allows Ocean’s mesmerizing voice to come to the forefront, the tracks that embrace a more diverse sonic palate are some of the most entertaining on the album. The driving bass and atmospheric synths of the leadoff track and first single “Nikes” make for a powerful introduction, as does Ocean’s artificially pitched-up voice. It is almost as though Ocean is teasing us: After four years, he still makes listeners wait three minutes to hear his real voice again.

Lyrically, the album is more intimate and erudite than “channel ORANGE.” Ocean focuses on lost friends and lovers, youthful trysts, drug use and sexual desire, while

simultaneously exploring philosophy, isolation and vulnerability. On the standout track “Solo,” he poetically links the troubles of the world to his own personal vices and escapism: “It’s hell on Earth and the city’s on fire, inhale, in hell there’s heaven.”

Although there are no tracks on “Blonde” that are quite as expansive and epic in scale as “Pyramids,” “Nights” comes close. For the first three and a half minutes, Ocean boasts about his ambition over shimmering, upbeat guitar (“No sleep in my body, ain’t no b---- in my body”). Then, at the three and a half minute mark, the exact midpoint of the entire album, the beat suddenly becomes a much slower, slinking R&B groove over which Ocean raps about his life after leaving Louisiana in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Both verses are deeply personal, and the track’s division speaks to the entire album’s embrace of duality; namely, masculinity and femininity and Ocean’s bisexuality.

Within “Boys Don’t Cry,” the 360-page compilation of photographs, stories and artwork that Ocean released alongside the album, there is an extensive list of big-name contributors: Beyoncé, Tyler The Creator, Rick Rubin, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar and many more. Even The Beatles and David Bowie get a mention. However, the album is so dreamlike, even sparse, that it is difficult to point out exactly where these other artists fit in. Lamar and Beyoncé, two of the biggest superstars in music, get relegated to minor backing vocals on “Skyline To” and the Pharrell-produced “Pink + White,” respectively.

The only artist with a genuine feature is the ever-elusive André 3000, who also was featured on “channel Orange” on the slowburning “Pink Matter,” In just one rapid-fire verse on the reprise of “Solo,” he speaks on his growing weariness when confronted with police killings of black youth, feelings of depression (“So low that no more high horses, so hard to wear Polo”) and his disappointment in ghostwriting and the current state of hip-hop. Notoriously stingy with his verses, André makes the most of every single syllable here. Bolstered by phenomenally minimalist production from Mike Dean, it is a song that solidifies his status as one of the greatest MCs of all time.

The emotional apex of “Blonde” is “White Ferrari,” a profoundly gorgeous, heartwrenching song in which Ocean muses on a teenage love and the time they spent together. The track is a fitting summation of the entire album: an ethereal look into the past, cut with raw emotion and imbued with the sense of longing that only Ocean can provide.

With the release of “Blonde,” “Boy’s Don’t Cry” and “Endless,” Ocean has done more than release a sophomore album. In audio, print and visual formats, Ocean has made a near-perfect statement on pop culture itself and the notions of celebrity and fame, while also furthering his personal narrative as one of the most talented, honest and creative forces in the industry.

B4

the guide

THE HOYA

FEATURE

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

THIS WEEK’S TOP FIVE

1

Pokémon Go Stories

A big part of Pokémon Go’s allure is the ability to play outdoors and be active. The game’s startup screen, which warns players to be aware of their surroundings, is especially pertinent in Bosnia, where an NGO is warning players against wandering into places where landmines from the region’s 1990s conflict remain a significant hazard.

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According to an article by the LA Times, three women playing the game in a San Diego park came across a dead body while exploring a creek bed.

The women came across the remains in a bush.

According to police, the remains had been there for some time and foul play is not suspected in the case.

POKEMON.WIKIA.COM

POKEMON.WIKIA.COM

3

KSHITHIJ SHRINATH/THE HOYA

Paul McCartney performed for a sold-out crowd at the Verizon Center on Sept. 10, playing nearly 40 songs for the 18,000 in attendance.

McCartney Spans Entire Career in Verizon Show KSHITHIJ SHRINATH

including the techno-laced “Temporary Secretary,” which McCartney acknowledged, saying, “I know when you all really like a As two pillars stood at either end of the song, because when we play anything from Verizon Center stage, slowly rotating with the Beatles, all the phones go out. But I have bright, psychedelic colors, the scene was you here, so I’ll play whatever I want.”

The monologues throughout the show set for rock legend Paul McCartney to take the stage as part of his “One on One” world were endearing, as McCartney dropped the tour. The arena gradually filled with middle- names of his famous music friends, including Eric Clapton and Jimi aged people whose Hendrix, and paid homhair color reflected “I know when you all really age to his wife, Nancy, who a narrow gradiwas in the audience, with ent between shiny like a song, because when the song “My Valentine.” white and distinPerhaps the most touching guished gray. The we play anything from the moment of the concert was pillars rotated once McCartney’s back-to-back more, and an im- Beatles, all the phones go performances of “Blackage of four young bird,” inspired by the civil white men, boast- out. But I have you here, so rights’ movement, and ing unblemished I’ll play whatever I want.”

“Here Today,” a song he skin, black hair and wrote after the death of almost baby-like PAUL MCCARTNEY John Lennon. The stage apfaces, appeared. A peared to float in the air as cheer rose. This was the arena filled with darka pilgrimage into ness, leaving only the crooning McCartney the past — into the temple of the Beatles.

Only one of those young men appeared on strumming his guitar.

One particular personal highlight was Mcstage Sept. 10 at the Verizon Center, and over 50 years had passed since that picture had Cartney opening one song by saying, “This is been taken. When Paul McCartney first ap- a song we released last year; if you want to peared on stage, in a haze of bright lights sing along, we’ll have the lyrics right behind and sparkles, my jaw dropped. The Beatles’ me.” When he played the opening notes to first concert in the United States was in “FourFiveSeconds,” his collaboration with February 1964 in Washington, D.C.; from Kanye West and Rihanna, I thought his line far enough away, McCartney looked as if he was a joke. Then the lyrics appeared, and had just stepped off a time machine from everyone around me looked oblivious. He that tour date. His jet-black hair looked as did all the voices, including Kanye’s hoarse though it had hardly aged over the course voice during the second verse: It was simulof the tumultuous past half century, and his taneously hilarious and magical.

The set was long, lasting nearly three boundless energy was a reminder that the man had retained every ounce of his legend- hours including the encore. McCartney’s enary showmanship. He knew what he was do- ergy never wavered, though, whether it was belting out the familiar words of “Hey Jude” ing.

Throughout the set, McCartney inter- or finishing the side tattoo of an eager fan spersed Beatles classics, such as “Can’t Buy on stage. When the tour bus exited the areMe Love,” which launched people out of na after the show, he was right at the front their seats in a call back to their ’60s glo- waving to all the fans craning in an attempt ry days, along with songs from his band, to catch a glimpse. Shrieks arose. They had Wings, and his more recent solo repertoire. seen their deity. The pilgrimage was comThe latter set drew a more sedate response, plete.

Hoya Staff Writer

Armed robbers in the town of O’Fallon, Miss., were arrested over the summer for using Pokémon Go to lure players into secluded, low-traffic areas and then ambush them. They have been connected to similar incidents in St. Louis County and are now facing felony charges.

4

POKEMON.WIKIA.COM

Two players in North San Diego County went over the edge in their dedication to the mobile app.

While trying to catch rare characters, the two men fell between 50 and 100 feet off a crumbling cliff in Encinitas after hopping a fence. Both men survived.

5

One of the most viral social media posts related to the popular mobile app comes from Louis Park, a U.S. Marine fighting in Iraq. While fighting the Islamic State group near the city of Mosul, he managed to catch a Pokémon that was sitting on top of his machine gun.

POKEMON.WIKIA.COM

POKEMON.WIKIA.COM

Summer Instagram Contest Winner

KSHITHIJ SHRINATH/THE HOYA

McCartney told stories about the people behind the songs, including producer George Martin and fellow Beatles John Lennon and George Harrison.

SHUO ZHANG (GRD ’17)

the guide

friday, september 2, 2016

THE HOYA

B5

COURTESY CAFE BONAPARTE

Best Restaurants in Georgetown and DC shannon hou Hoya Staff Writer

New Students: This article is intended to provide an idea of some popular off-campus dining options. This page is normally reserved for two restaurant reviews from around the District.

Quick Meals in Georgetown

If you are in a rush or just want a quick bite, there are quite a few fast, casual spots not too far from campus. Wisemiller’s Grocery & Deli – better known as Wisey’s – is a favorite among students. Classic sandwiches include the Chicken Madness – with grilled chicken, peppers and provolone cheese folded in – and the Hot Chick — which includes chopped chicken tenders, cheese and spicy mayo. Be sure to check out the Oreo cookies if you still have room for dessert.

Chaia, a recently opened taco joint, gained popularity with students after its stint at Georgetown’s popular Wednesday farmers’ market. It serves exclusively farm-to-table vegetarian tacos that even meat lovers enjoy.

Sweetgreen, a Chipotle-style salad shop founded by Georgetown alumni, has tons of different options for even the pickiest eaters. The guacamole greens salad is the perfect combination of buttery avocado, jalapeno and cilantro vinaigrette.

Kintaro, a sushi shop across the street from Georgetown Cupcake, is a casual lunch spot with a small — but high quality — selection of sushi and sashimi. The chicken karaage is a perfectly crispy and tender appetizer, and the tonkatsu ramen does an adequate job for any ramen craving.

Wingo’s near O Street and Wisconsin Avenue serves wings available with 20 different sauces at varying spice levels. Chili dogs and cheese fries are also great choices. Win-

go’s Wednesdays, on which wings are half priced, are a late-night classic.

perfectly crispy spinach with a yogurt dressing.

If you want to spend an afternoon hanging out with friends, Booeymonger – or Booey’s for short – is a convenient spot. With beer pitchers at just six dollars and change during happy hour, Booey’s is a great place to relax for cheap. The breakfast sandwich – Chicken Little – is a filling option with bacon, egg and cheese on your choice of a bagel.

Blue Duck Tavern, a few blocks from M Street downtown, is a family-style restaurant with phenomenal flavor pairings that often change based on seasonality. The squid ink cavatelli and the wild king salmon are delicious dishes, and its weekend brunches are also a popular choice.

Classic Georgetown Destinations

Without a doubt, The Tombs is deeply ingrained in any student’s Georgetown experience. An underground joint with all your classic pub food dishes, this is the place to go for your 21st birthday and thereby first place all Georgetown student have their first official drink. A popular option is the chicken parmesan, which is only served on Wednesdays. Pro tip: It’s always referred to as “Tombs” and never “The Tombs.”

Mai Thai, a Thai and Japanese restaurant on Prospect Street, is a great restaurant to grab dinner with friends. Portions are so large that you will have enough to take home for lunch the next day. The basil fried rice is flavorful and spicy, and the drunken noodles are a popular choice as well.

If you trek down toward the waterfront, il Canale is a fantastic Italian restaurant with delicious pizzas. One of the best pizzas is the diavola: margarita pizza with spicy salami.

It is also a popular date spot, for those looking for your Hoya loves.

Treat-Yourself Meals

When your parents are in town and want to spoil you a non-Leo’s meal or during the end of exam week, there are plenty of restaurants in town to treat yourself. Rasika, an Indian restaurant with two locations in D.C., has great dishes for sharing. Try the palak chaat appetizer, which is composed of

For a nice restaurant closer to campus, Das Ethiopian Cuisine serves shared plates of various vegetables and meats with injera – a type of rolled spongey bread. Its short ribs, grilled, savory and sauteed with onions, are a hearty choice.

Brunching

The most famous brunch in Georgetown is at Farmers, Fishers, Bakers down by the waterfront. The all-you-can-eat weekend and holiday brunches are relatively pricey but worth it on a special occasion. The crab dip and honey fried chicken are to die for, and other breakfast specials such as bruleed grapefruit and egg scrambles are worth a taste as well.

Another all-you-can-eat spot – with drinks included – is Boqueria, a tapas joint near Dupont Circle. While it is famous for its sangria, the leche de pantera is an underrated and absolutely fantastic coffeeflavored cocktail. Although not on the allyou-can-eat menu, Boqueria’s paella and blistered shishito peppers are great picks as well.

For crepes and French food, Café Bonaparte is a quaint spot on Wisconsin Avenue. Be aware, the restaurant does not take reservations and the line can get long during brunch, but it is always worth the wait.

Making a Day of It

If you want to spend a day in town and

make a day of your excursion, try heading over to Eastern Market to survey all the vendors’ stalls and grab some fresh fruits and vegetables. After a morning of shopping, the best place to grab a bite to eat is at Market Lunch, a small vendor inside the market’s building. Its weekend shrimp and grits are popular, as are its blueberry buckwheat pancakes.

If you want to check out D.C.’s Chinatown, grab a bowl of spicy miso ramen from Daikaya – a perfect meal just before a movie at the nearby theater or a basketball game at the Verizon Center.

For a lazy but productive Sunday afternoon, stop by A Baked Joint near the Georgetown University Law Center in Mount Vernon for a cup of coffee and its open-faced smoked salmon sandwich. The fried capers on top leave a pleasing salty bite. For dessert, grab a slice of cake or a chocolate chip cookie. The open and inviting atmosphere also makes it the perfect place to read a book, do homework or study for an exam.

Coffee and Sweets

For a cup of coffee, the best in Georgetown is Baked & Wired, where you can also grab a tangy vanilla yogurt or flakey chocolate croissant. Its cupcakes are by far better than the tourist trap Georgetown Cupcake, and be sure to try the Uniporn & Rainho — funfetti — cupcake.

Thomas Sweet is a great ice cream spot on Wisconsin Avenue with tons of flavors, toppings and cone choices. If you are paying by card, keep in mind that it has a credit card minimum of $5.50.

District Doughnut, in Cady’s Ally, is a popup of a brick and mortar store that serves great seasonal donuts and flavorful iced coffee.

COURTESY CHAIA TACOS

ALEXANDER BROWN/THE HOYA

MICHELLE XU/THE HOYA

BOQUERIA

ALEXANDER BROWN/THE HOYA

Washington, D.C., is uniquely situated both at the heart of American politics and at the core of American cuisine. Offering a full spectrum of options for diners at any budget, D.C. has something for just about every taste, from mouth-watering hamburgers to exotic delicacies.

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the guide

THE HOYA

Friday, September 2, 2016

MOVIE Review

Warner Bros.

Starring Hollywood veteran Jonah Hill alongside one of the film industry’s rising stars, Miles Teller, “War Dogs” was a film set for success. However, the film’s attempt to emulate its succesful predecesors resulted in a lack of any distinct identity of its own, pulling it in too many conflicting directions.

War Dogs 

Starring: Jonah Hill and Miles Teller Directed by: Todd Phillips Jeff Naft

Hoya Staff Writer

In Oliver Stone’s 1987 classic “Wall Street,” there is a quote in the final scene that sums up the entire movie: “Man looks in the abyss; there’s nothing staring back at him. At that moment man finds his character, and that is what keeps him out of the abyss.” In Todd Phillip’s new release “War Dogs,” the film’s two protagonists – David Packouz and Efraim Diveroli, played by Miles Teller and Jonah Hill, respectively – let their greed and blind ambition blur the lines between legality and morality. This eventually leads both men to lose what remains of their character and to find themselves trapped in an abyss.

While the film attempts to establish itself as the heir to films like “The Wolf of Wall Street” and “The Big Short,” it fails on every level. Not even the chemistry between likeable stoner archetypes Miles Teller and Jonah Hill can save this movie from cannibalizing itself.

On paper, “War Dogs” should be a grand slam, both critically and commercially. The film features one of Holly-

wood’s most bankable actors: Hill, whose last big budget debut, 2014’s “22 Jump Street,” made over $300 million at the box office on an $85 million budget. Major studios and big-name directors can count on Hill to churn out more dramatic performances based on praise for his performances in films like “Moneyball” and “True Story,” which earned him critical acclaim and accolades. While Teller may not be as big of a draw as Hill, the actor is certainly one of the industry’s most versatile.

How, then, did this movie go so wrong?

Phillips, whose previous comedies renewed the “bromantic” comedy genre, attempted to break out of the genre that made him famous. By tackling a script that had more emotion and depth than just superficial jokes, Phillips aimed to sprinkle comedic elements in what was otherwise a modern-day Greek tragedy. Phillips cast Teller, with whom he worked with on “Project X,” as lead and put him alongside Hill, who Phillips thought would be perfect based on his performance in Martin Scorsese’s “The Wolf of Wall Street.”

But, unlike Scorsese’s films, known

for their genre-bending narratives, “War Dogs” attempts to emulate the best drama and comedy films of recent memory, while also trying to differentiate itself from its predecessors. The film’s uneven direction and poor writing makes some scenes too outlandish when they should have been serious, and other scenes, which were supposed to be emotional and indicate character growth and development, lack the gut punch they desperately needed to make audiences feel for the characters and drive the film forward.

“War Dogs” wanted to have its cake and eat it too but ended up shooting itself in the foot.

In short, Phillips tried to amalgamate two drastically different genres with a based-on-a-true-story narrartive too big and too grandiose to have actually hap-

pened. Instead, he created a film that struggles throughout to find a distinctive identity.

The characters in “War Dogs” are twodimensional at best and hollow knockoffs of those in better films at worst. Hill was tasked with making an unlikeable character likeable. Hill went to great lengths to try to establish his character of Diveroli as someone different from his previous comedic roles on screen but failed to hit his mark. Teller was tasked with being the down-on-his-luck everyman with whom audiences could sympathize. Teller’s pot-smoking character Packouz came off as an opportunistic arms dealer who would rather lie to his pregnant girlfriend than find another line of work.

Maybe, under a different director, “War Dogs” could have had more heart and less of a forced comedic tone throughout. Stunning cinematography and an interesting premise could not save this Oscar bait from its impending doom.

The chemistry between Teller and Hill was not enough to anchor the film’s story and left audiences looking into their own abyss when the credits rolled.

movie review

Equity 

Starring: Anna Gunn Directed by: Meera Menon Grace Wydeven Hoya Staff Writer

Until now, Leonardo DiCaprio’s lead role in “The Wolf of Wall Street” seemingly cemented him as the Wall Street genre’s most widely recognizable figure.

However, “Equity,” starring Anna Gunn, has swiftly shifted the balance of power in this ever-expanding genre.

The film’s progressive commentary on gender in the workplace is, in this case, overshadowed by its depiction of money as the great equalizer.

The second movie by director Meera Menon, whose 2013 directorial debut “Farah Goes Bang” received critical acclaim, “Equity” strives to reveal an alternative to the old archetype of Wall Street as a cutthroat boys club with its introduction of three compelling, fresh female leads. Naomi Bishop (Gunn) is a senior investment banker who has climbed up the corporate ladder through years of hard work and dedication. Shrewd and thorough, Bishop’s failed attempt to take a highly successful company public kicks off the movie.

Her right-hand woman Erin, played by Sarah Megan Thomas — who also wrote the film’s screenplay — struggles to strike a balance between her desire to advance herself professionally and her obligation to work for the greater good of the company. Meanwhile, Naomi’s friend from college, Samantha (Alyssa Reiner), tries to crack a corporate corruption case, coincidentally about the bank for which Naomi works. With Erin by her side and Samantha on her tail, the film bounces from woman to woman in an attempt to show the multifaceted definition of success for working women.

In a field dominated by men, Bishop unavoidably stands out. Due to her minority

status in the workplace, she faces constant doubt and criticism that her male counterparts not only avoid but serve to perpetuate. In a business where numbers typically speak for themselves, Naomi finds herself defending her outfit choices instead of her research in a never-ending struggle to prove that the quality of her work is not innately tied to her gender.

While the movie casts Naomi as the fearless leading lady, the storylines of Erin and Samantha do a great deal in actually driving the plot forward. Naomi works as hard as she can for as long as she can, slowly moving the dial for herself — and, as a result, other professional

women seeking successful careers — but even the toughest characters cannot go on forever.

While the wolves of Wall Street associate their monetary worth with credibility and status, a successful banker like Gunn’s character is viewed as a threat — a perversion of a sacred role previously exclusive to men. At one point, however, a student asks Naomi why she gets up every morning to do what she does. Naomi answers simply, “I like money.” The film’s progressive commentary on gender in the workplace is, in this case, overshadowed by its depiction of money as the great equalizer.

“Equity” successfully demonstrates realities that many professional women face every day. Through three different, equally dynamic characters, the film presents itself as a case study of success. By revealing the usually overlooked female role in a corporate setting, the film reveals harsh, behind-the-scenes struggles so many women face in the pursuit of success. The juxtaposition of both weak and sleazy male characters in the film begs the question, “Why are more women not given these opportunities?” With Gunn at the helm, the film does its best to demonstrate the constant, slow-moving cycle of progress for women in workplace.

sony pictures

“Equity” is a film that takes a fresh approach to the newly bloated Wall Street movie genre through its depiction of strong female characters and its challenge of gender norms in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

the guide

friday, september 2, 2016

THE HOYA

album review

MUSIC

How to Be a Human Being Glass Animals Marina Tian Hoya Staff Writer

“How to Be a Human Being,” the sophomore album of English indie rock band Glass Animals, is perhaps best described by a line in the album’s third track, “Season 2 Episode 3”: “Sometimes it makes me laugh, sometimes it makes me sad.” Frontman Dave Bayley has managed to compile snippets of stories he heard from strangers on tour into a concept album replete with engaging narratives. Each track is told from the perspective of a unique narrator, with the tracks finding cohesion in thematic undercurrents, earnest writing and exquisite scoring throughout.

The album contains the originality and groove of 2014’s “Zaba,” the group’s debut album, and extends into more easily relatable material while pushing the boundaries of the genre. With “Glass Animals,” there is no sign of a sophomore slouch in sight. Take the album’s opening track and first single, “Life Itself,” for example. Opening with the lush jungle percussion characteristic of “Zaba,” the track evolves into a boisterous, banging tune about a reclusive loner with shaky bravado. Likewise, the slickly produced “Cane Shuga” demonstrates the band’s continued hip-hop influences with clever use of auto-tune and a captivating beat.

Bayley’s ability to distinctly assume different personas in each track while avoiding the pitfalls of forced melodrama is astounding. The aforementioned “Cane Shuga” is a dialogue between two parties in a relationship failing due to one’s drug addiction. Auto-tune and careful inflection help differentiate between the two individuals. In “The Other Side of Paradise,” which tells the story of the narrator whose lover deserts her for fame and a new paramour, Bayley adopts a tone that is desperate, angry and pleading. “Take a Slice,” a song featuring a lusty narrator and seductive electric guitar lines, sees Bayley affecting a breathy murmur over loudly aggressive percussion and ringing arpeggios, crooning lyrics like “Gonna go to



Pensacola, gonna f--- my way through college.”

Sonically, the album highlights the individual skill of each band member. The instrumentals are beautifully layered in a bizarre, sometimes jarring mix of sounds and textures, simultaneously symphonic and cacophonic.

Bayley found inspiration in the outside world: using old bins and scrap metal to create the atmospheric hubbub and clamor of a typical city street corner in “Pork Soda,” sampling retro video game sounds reminiscent of Super Mario Bros and PacMan in “Season 2 Episode 3,” and most uniquely, using a sample of an owl’s hoots to create the synth sounds in “Youth.”

The band did not shy away from sampling retro hits either, using the flute trill from the Carpenters’ “Mr. Guder” to devastating effect in “Mama’s Gun.” The song’s narrator, plagued with hallucinations, awakens from a blackout where she may have murdered her husband.

The flute line gives the track an additional patina of tragedy over hauntingly distorted instrumentals, recalling the short life of Karen Carpenter.

Not all the songs have as dark of a narrative.

At times, Bayley’s visually descriptive, non sequitur-filled lyrics are playfully bizarre. “Season 2 Episode 3” is a song about an underachieving, cartoon-watching stoner whose girlfriend “eats mayonnaise from a jar while she’s gettin’ blazed.” Spoken word interlude “[Premade Sandwiches]” is a tongue-in-cheek indictment of our consumerist society, with people standing in line for goods ranging from “weed that’s green tea” to “non-GMO locally sourced quinoa and chia seeds” to “whatever the McF--- they might want.”

While the album benefits from such stark highs and lows, “How to Be a Human Being” inhabits the sweet spot between tragedy and comedy, joy and heartbreak. Glass Animals’ incredible lyricism and nuanced writing is on display in “Youth” with themes of misplaced love and false romance, bolstered by the imagery of “dead flowers in the sand” and the lyric “true romantic” juxtaposed with “free-falling

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WOLF TONE

love addict” a line later. The most beautiful song on the album is the album’s closer, “Agnes.” Innocent, tinkling chord arpeggios and clinking glass play under lyrics that describe watching a loved one succumb to a drug addiction. The song is warm and mesmerizing, with an incredibly heartrending melody and subtly complex lyrics. The song manages to take everything that is wonderful about the album and condense it into one track.

In “How to Be a Human Being,” Glass Animals is fearless and ambitious. Without shying away from its own style and hallmarks, the band still manages to be surprising and fresh.

The band also manages to experiment without being haphazard or alienating, smartly recognizing that cohesion and wide appeal do not have to be sacrificed for novel artistry. The aptly titled album is not so much a lesson on how to be human but rather an explication of what it means to be part of the human experience, with recurring themes of diversity and compassion. Compellingly written and deeply nuanced, “How to Be a Human Being” will not just be something you hear — it will be something you feel.

New Releases

DEF JAM

vince staples ‘prima donna’ (EP) Long Beach native Vince Staples proves to be a master of minimalism on his newest EP, a seven-song journey that explores the impact of fame on the young rapper’s life: from having “all this money, all these visas” to being “at the Marriott, having Kurt Cobain dreams.” Featuring stellar production from James Blake, No I.D. and DJ Dahi, “Prima Donna” is the latest in a string of powerful releases from Staples.

ATLANTIC RECORDS

Young thug ‘jeffrey’ As amazing as its cover artwork is, the best thing about Atlanta rapper Young Thug’s newest mixtape is how he continues to improve with each release. From the primal energy of “Harambe” to the Caribbean rhythms of “Wyclef Jean,” Thugger fills out the project with his unparalleled energy and willingness to let his freak flag fly. With features from Travis Scott, Gucci Mane and Wyclef Jean himself, it is a must-listen for fans of trap music.

CONSEQUENCE OF SOUND

Hailing from Oxford, England, Glass Animals’ blend of indie rock and trip-hop has captivated audiences since 2012. The group’s newest album differentiates itself from its debut album, but retains the vibe that brought it into the mainstream.

Sremmlife 2 Rae Sremmurd

Pranav Marupudi Hoya Staff Writer

Summer 2014 played witness to the introduction of a duo called Rae Sremmurd and their shrill-voiced summer hit “No Flex Zone.” With an addictively joyous persona, Khalif “Swae Lee” Brown and Aaquil “Slim Jxmmi” Brown followed the release with a string of radio hits including “No Type,” “Throw Some Mo” and “Come Get Her.” These singles later appeared on their debut album, “Sremmlife,” in January 2015. The brothers released a sequel to their acclaimed debut album on Aug. 12. “Sremmlife 2” is an album troubled by a lack of grand hits but is also one that retains the vibe that drove so many to love Rae Sremmurd.

Rae Sremmurd did not make much of a discernable effort to create a cohesive album, aside from the thematic core of the album: descriptions of their experiences with parties and girls. For many albums, this would signify a lack of artistic vision. However, the intentionality behind the brothers’ distinctive song craft creates a product easily recognized as a talented undertaking. The Brown brothers take you beyond the parties they experience as celebrities, introducing

album review

 an ominous tone to the singularly positive nightlife descriptions from “Sremmlife.”

The album is best exemplified by the lead single “By Chance,” which glorifies both the reckless spending and flaunting of money as per usual but also mentions the beginning of a Xanax addiction and its impact on their previous exploits. Accompanied by an 808 beat to create a darker sound, Rae Sremmurd evolves musically in conjunction with the rise of their career. Despite the similarities of subject matter and vocal technique to their prior release, the carefree attitude absent from the new album becomes a misstep that creates a heavier mood that is ultimately misplaced.

The defining characteristic of Rae Sremmurd has always been the sterling production behind their tracks. Although emanating a different vibe than “Sremmlife,” the strongest moments of “Sremmlife 2” remain in the underlying beats. The duo frequently uses beats crafted by MikeWillMadeIt, notable for songs like “Mercy” by Kanye West, “We Can’t Stop” by Miley Cyrus and, recently, “Formation” by Beyoncé. On the album, MikeWillMadeIt holds production credits on six of the 11 songs, showing the strength of the relationship that started with the sign-

HYPETRAK

Los Angeles-based duo Rae Sremmurd released its follow-up to 2014’s “Sremmlife” with features from Gucci Mane, Kodak Black and Lil Jon.

INTERSCOPE RECORDS

carly rae jepsen ‘emotion: side b’ (EP) Although the Canadian singer-songwriter’s third studio album “Emotion” was a commercial disappointment, critics praised the project for its 1980s dance-pop vibes and tightly composed tracks. With her new release, Jepsen has released a collection of Bsides that expand on the album’s synth-fueled exuberance. Fans of artists like La Roux and Robyn, or anyone who appreciates a great pop tune, will not be disappointed.

EARDRUMMERS — INTERSCOPE

ing of the brothers to his label, “Ear Drummers.”

The songs on the album are characterized by a creative use of drums, often employing snares and hi-hats, to create an energized atmosphere that engages the listener. The artistic development of Rae Sremmurd is especially evident in this aspect, where many beats are calmer in nature. While the Brown brothers were ultimately successful in taking this risk, especially on songs like “Look Alive,” “Real Chill” and “Do Yoga,” they fall short of the explosive energy that permeates the original “Sremmlife” elsewhere.

The vocals also feature more diversification, switching between a high, energetic voice to a chill, melodic one. This diversity further symbolizes the album as a whole. Despite the importance of the vocals in “Sremmlife 2” to loosely tie the album together, they do not contribute much to the relaxed or slow songs. Rather, they work best when contributing energy to the listening experience.

“Sremmlife 2” retains the base values — namely the consistent quality of their songs and the energetic productions — that attracted fans to Rae Sremmurd two years ago. However, the album is a case in point that the evolution of an artist does not introduce better music but rather results in a sophomore effort inferior to the debut. The album is still worth a listen, however, especially the singles “By Chance” and “Look Alive.”

ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS

Banks & Steelz ‘Anything but words’ It is an unlikely combination out of the Big Apple: Paul Banks, the lead singer of Interpol, teaming up with legendary Wu-Tang Clan rapper RZA. After linking up for a demo in 2011 — and uniting over games of chess — the duo began working on a collaborative album in 2013. The project features contributions from other members of the Clan, including Ghostface Killah, Method Man and Masta Killa. Standout tracks include “Giant” and “Wild Season,” which features Florence Welch.

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sports

THE HOYA

Women’s soccer

the analyst

Concussions Impact MLB R

FILE PHOTO: ROBERT CORTES/THE HOYA

Senior forward Grace Damaska has scored a team-leading six goals this season.

Damaska won Big East Player of the Week for her hat trick against Delaware.

GU Faces Road Challenge

Chris Balthazard Hoya Staff Writer

Fresh off a pair of impressive home performances, the Georgetown women’s soccer team (3-1) travels for its first road game of the season Friday night to take on No. 12 Rutgers (3-1-0) in Piscataway, NJ. With 4-0 and 4-1 victories over Delaware (0-4) and Colorado College (2-2), respectively, the Hoyas have started to earn national attention; senior forward Grace Damaska’s six goals, including five in her last two games, ranks her tied for second in the nation, while junior midfielder Rachel Corboz’s five assists have her jointfirst.

Defensively, sophomore goalkeeper Arielle Schectman has recorded three shutouts in her first four games with the help from junior defender Elizabeth Wenger and freshman defender Sarah Trissel.

Wenger earned the first Big East Defensive Player of the Week award by an outfield Georgetown player since Mary Kroening in November 2013, and Damaska took home the Offensive Player of the Week.

Head Coach Dave Nolan has been impressed so far with Georgetown’s sustained possession as well as the midfield’s desire to win the ball back immediately once it has been turned over. Corboz and central midfielder juniors Taylor Pak and Chloe Knott have stood out in that respect.

“If you have the ball, and you have the other team under pressure, your defense doesn’t get tested,” Nolan said.

“And I think we’ve done a good job in all the games of owning possession … when the ball turns over, we have some midfielders in particular who work really hard to try to win the ball back.”

Though Rutgers sits high in the rankings and has already won at then-No. 10 UConn (31), the team has undergone massive changes since last season, graduating eight seniors.

Additionally, the first-choice keeper is currently away from the team for U-20 national team duty.

“Rutgers had a year last year similar to our men’s program, in that all of their better players were their seniors,” Nolan said. “And they had a very good defensive mindset … the game against UConn was an interesting game. It was 2-0, Rutgers scored off two corner kicks. But if you were to look at possession and shots, UConn certainly owned the statistical side of it.”

The Hoyas are also aware of Rutgers’ aerial prowess, as several of their goals have resulted from long throws or other set pieces.

The atmosphere in Piscataway has the potential to be raucous, with the Scarlet Knights highly primed for an evening game against a highprofile opponent, but Wenger did not seem concerned.

“Typically, and this is how I’ve been all through youth and high school in games so far, I’m very good at tuning out anything besides what’s going on right in the moment,” Wenger said. “But one time, at Virginia Tech, with their student section, that was the one time I really heard the student section. And that’s always fun to hear them heckling you; it motivates you to put the ball back down the other team’s throat.”

Not only did Wenger earn conference accolades for her defensive success last weekend, she also contributed an assist on Damaska’s fifth goal of the two games, lofting a semi-intentional inch-perfect

ball from near the midfield line onto Damaska’s head to bury any remaining Tiger hopes.

Beside Wenger, Trissel has filled in admirably at center back in her first season on the Hilltop, earning praise from all sides.

“Sarah reminds me so much of Alexa St. Martin, who played here a couple of years ago,” Nolan said. “She’s similar in stature, she’s got the same grittiness and toughness, but more than anything she’s very assured on the field.

She doesn’t panic, she doesn’t get flustered. She tends to read situations very well and ultimately usually makes the right decision … I’m not worried about inexperience.”

Wenger, too, admired the ability to jump into the Hoyas’ back four, alongside junior defender Drew Topor and graduate student Corey Delaney, and find such immediate success.

“I’m really excited to have her next to me; she’s such a solid player,” Wenger said.

“She has taken stepping in like a pro — I’m pretty sure she’s done better than I have. She’s never seemed nervous and she’s really good communicating with me. She steps well.”

With the exception of the Stanford match, the defense has had success in quelling opposition attacks before they ever really begin. Colorado College’s lone goal came from its only threatening forward move.

Ultimately, however, Wenger places team results above her individual plaudits. “[A]ccolades are nice,” Wenger said. “But it’s early in the season and we have a lot more games to play. I’m more interested in what’s coming for us than for what they’re giving me now.”

Volleyball

Florida Tournament Awaits ryan mccoy

Hoya Staff Writer

Georgetown Volleyball (1-2) is preparing for its first road trip of the season after losing two games at the D.C. Challenge last weekend and will fly south to participate in the Stetson/University of South Florida Invitational this weekend.

The Hoyas begin with two matches Friday against Florida Atlantic and Western Carolina, before taking on Stetson on Saturday morning.

As the Hoyas prepare for the upcoming matches, the team remains optimistic. After a tough season last year, which saw the team field several freshmen, the improvement has been obvious, according to senior middle blocker Ashlie Williams.

“We’re really excited about how we’re playing as a team right now. Last year we were a completely new team. Now it definitely shows that we’ve been playing together for a while,” Williams said. “We’re trusting each other more on the court, and things are looking a lot more in-flow. I’m really excited for us to continue growing as a team.”

Williams touched on many aspects of the Hoyas’ game that has improved, noting an overall improvement on both

sides of the net.

“Our offense has been looking pretty good this season.

It can go up and down, obviously, but I think we’ve been really strong. We’re definitely going to be able to compete against Creighton and some of the big hitters out there,” Williams said. “And our defense — I don’t think there’s anyone better out there right now. And we’re just going to continue to get better.”

Meanwhile, sophomore libero Kenzie Higareda emphasized the team’s improved chemistry, especially in reference to last year’s roster woes.

“Everyone has a positive attitude, and we’re all in here working hard every day. Last year we didn’t have as many people to go through the drills hard all the time. But now that we have a full roster and 16 great girls that try every single day, we’re able to do those drills and it makes everyone a lot better,” Higareda said.

Head Coach Arlisa Williams echoed the sentiment when asked about the strengths of the current team.

“They get along extremely well; our team dynamic is really good,” Williams said.

“They understand how each other plays. They’ve got a very good feel for each other. But they also have a year under their belt playing together,

friDAY, september 2, 2016

so they are communicating more, they understand how to lift each other up and encourage each other, the setterhitter connection is better, the defense is awesome, just because they are very comfortable with each other.”

Now, the Hoyas look to use that newfound experience against some formidable nonconference opponents.

“We have not looked at the teams yet, but when we get down there we will. We’re really excited to play these teams; they’re going to be good competition for us for sure. These Florida teams are all over the place; [they have played] indoor, outdoor and have really good training.

We’re really excited to get in the gym and play these tough teams,” Higareda said.

Meanwhile, Coach Williams preferred to focus on her own team, listing the things she wanted to see from her team this weekend.

“We want to go out, play hard, fine tune some things that we didn’t do well last weekend and just make sure that we’re aggressive and competitive from beginning to end.”

With that in mind, the Hoyas look to translate their optimism into success on the court. First serve is set for Friday at 9 a.m.

eleased last year, the film “Concussion” chronicles the story of Bennet Omalu, the man who discovered chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a progressive brain disease, and linked it to playing football. The film brought a decades-long battle about the health risks of America’s favorite sport to the mainstream stage and began a media frenzy over the future of one of America’s most powerful corporations.

The controversy has tarnished the game in many ways. In April, a settlement was approved for a class action lawsuit in which over 20,000 retired NFL players demanded reparations from the NFL for injuries acquired during their careers within the organization. Poll after poll has been released illustrating parents’ hesitation to allow their kids to play Pop Warner. Some journalists have gone so far as to inquire whether the concussion debacle would effectively end the NFL. This story is still ongoing: the discovery of CTE and subsequent brain injuries due to NFL playing time are making waves in a seemingly unrelated area that otherwise may not have surfaced until recently. That area is Major League Baseball.

The NFL’s concussions have two major effects on the MLB: new base running rules and the type of player making it to the big leagues.

Baseball is not a contact sport – except, perhaps, on the base paths. For generations, little leaguers around the country were taught to lead with their spikes when sliding into second base in an attempt to trip the second baseman and/ or shortstop in order to break up a double play. They were taught that, if they shouldered the catcher hard enough at home plate, they might be

able to knock the ball out of his hand to be called safe at home.

Those days of violent, steamroller-like base running are officially over. In 2014, the MLB implemented a rule preventing violent linebacker-esque plays at the plate. Just this year, following the famous Chase Utley slide in which Utley and Mets shortstop Ruben Tejada resembled a barreling bowling ball and unfortunate bowling pin, respectively, the MLB decided to ban maliciously intended slides altogether.

Amanda Christovich These slides rarely happened on a daily basis. But they were, until the last couple seasons, an integral strategy in base running that had been taught for generations. This season, players are working to adapt to these new rules put in place to ensure player safety.

And the timeliness of these rules, both born around the height of the concussion scandal, strongly suggests that the MLB wants no part of claims that its sport causes chronic injury to players in any way.

The NFL concussion rule is changing more than just base running; however, it is changing the essence of the base runners themselves.

The evidence that American parents are wary of allowing their children to play tackle football is profound. A youth sports organization, i9 Sports, surveyed 537 parents of young football players in July and found that 100 percent were “affected in some way by

concussions.” A poll by the University of Massachusetts Lowell center for public opinion divulged that 78 percent of their participants believe tackle football is unacceptable for participants under the age of 14.

Thus, the slow trickle of a new kind of baseball player emerges in the big leagues. The kind of player recruited to play football in college but who choses baseball instead. The kind of player built more like a tight end than an outfielder.

The kind of player named Aaron Judge, the rookie outfielder that New York Yankee fans have watched tower over infielders as he loped around the bases during the homer he hit in his first Major League at bat on August 13, just three short weeks ago.

It would be unfair to assume definitively that Judge chose to play baseball despite his hulking football prowess because of the concussion scandal.

However, it is clear that Judge joins the likes of a rare breed of baseball player, like Dave Winfield or Mike Trout, that will undoubtedly be more common in the near future.

The concussion scandal might drive young football players into baseball just as the pace, glamour and excitement of football drove young baseball players to pursue the NFL in the past. And that brute strength could improve the pace of the game, the average scores and the overall athletic reputation of Major Leaguers for years to come.

The game of football is changing — but everyone knew that already. What is becoming apparent is that the game of football is also changing baseball.

Amanda Christovich is a sophomore in the College.

THE ANALYST appears every Friday.

field hockey

Hoyas Open Undefeated Emily Dalton Hoya Staff Writer

Despite going down a goal twice throughout the course of the game, Georgetown field hockey (2-0) rallied to a 4-3 overtime victory against Appalachian State (0-2) on Sunday. The victory comes off the heels of a 3-1 defeat of Davidson (0-2, 0-0 Atlantic 10) last Friday, giving Georgetown its best start since 2010.

“We played against a tough Davidson squad on Friday night, and I thought the product we put out on the field was a positive one, but we also had a lot of adjustments to make from Friday going into Sunday,” Head Coach Shannon Soares said.

Although the Hoyas were able to notch four goals and ultimately come away with a win, Soares hopes the team can improve on their execution in the attacking circle as they move forward with their season.

“We had difficulty finishing in our attacking circle.

I think we penetrated their circle 42 times in that match and earned 10 penalty corners, but didn’t execute on a single one,” Soares said. “All of our goals were scored off of open play, so moving into this weekend, we’ll really look to execute in the attacking penalty circle and find positive outcomes in that space.”

Although Georgetown will face both Rider and Monmouth this weekend, its sole focus leading up to Friday’s game has been on the Rider Broncs. “Our preparation style is one where we focus on our first opponent all week prior to that match. We take it one game at a time, and we never look ahead of that next game,” Soares said.

“All of our preparation has been making adjustments from footage that we’ve seen of ourselves, and in addition to that, preparing for what is going to be a very fit and fast and gritty Rider squad on Friday night.”

As the Hoyas look to extend their winning streak, Coach Soares credits her team’s dedication and commitment to being in their best shape to compete as the driving force behind

their undefeated opening weekend.

“I think this group did a great job of coming back fit, which was step number one in the process,” Soares said. “This summer we put a real focus on coming back prepared and ready to play 70 minutes of hockey in a given match, and 140 minutes of hockey in a weekend, which over the span of three days is a lot of work for your body.”

Additionally, Soares acknowledged her players’ willingness to learn not only from the coaching staff, but also from each other, as a crucial component to their success on the field.

“Our group is doing a really good job of taking accountability and ownership.”

Shannon soares Head Coach

“Step number two is being focused and disciplined throughout a difficult preseason, and we thought they did a really good job with that,” Soares said.

“We introduced some new concepts and spent a lot of time focusing on team dynamic, but I think the most special thing about this group is that we’re now in year three of restructuring this program, and this group has done a phenomenal job of leading from the inside out.”

According to Soares, it is the Hoyas’ ability to feed off of each other and build team chemistry that has allowed them to be so successful on the field.

“I think the best teams in the country are the ones that are internally led, and our group is doing a really good job of taking accountability and ownership of themselves as individuals and also as a group,” Soares said. “It’s been really fun to watch from the outside looking in.”

This leadership is seen not only from experienced upperclassmen, but also from freshmen players who have already started to make an impact on the team.

“Your hope and wish as a coach is always that your freshmen will be impactful when they arrive on campus in August and that they will make us better. I surely think that’s the case with this group,” Soares said.

“Michaela Bruno scored our first goal of the season off of our first attacking penalty corner against Davidson, and then freshman Lindsay Getz scored two goals in the App State game, and those goals were both critical to us winning that match, so that’s a big deal.”

While Bruno and Getz have both shined on the offensive end, freshman defender Ashley Leverrett has been holding her own as a reliable force on Georgetown’s back line.

“I think the unsung hero here in the freshman class is probably Ashley Leverrett, who is starting for us at left back and played 140 minutes of hockey last weekend and did a fantastic job of playing poised,” Coach Soares said.

“She very much looks like an upperclassman when she’s out there. She is a very intelligent player who takes care of the ball and makes smart decisions. We’re just really excited she’s here along with the remainder of the freshman class.”

Ultimately, it is the entire team’s effort that will lead the Hoyas to achieve their highest goals. “I think everybody brings a really important piece to this puzzle, and together we make a pretty special group, so I’m excited for the future,” Soares said.

“We have our work cut out for us, and we have to continue to focus on one game at a time, and respecting and appreciating the process, but if we do that I think we’ll reap what we sow.”

Georgetown will face Rider this Friday at 7 p.m. and Monmouth on Sunday at 12 p.m. Both games will be held in New Jersey.

SPORTS

friDAY, september 2, 2016

THE HOYA

THE WATER COOLER

B9

Men’s soccer

Pros’ Motives Missed GU Braces for UMD IPPOLITO, from B10

is embarrasing, because she has nothing for which to apologize. For the sake of argument, let’s pretend that she did. In that case, the internet was oddly silent when Michael Phelps failed to place his hand over his heart before receiving one of his medals. There were crickets when American shot putters Ryan Crouser and Joe Kovacs, who are both white, had their hands at their sides as the anthem played before they received their medals.

At this point, the double-standard against Douglas and black athletes should seem clear; if Douglas were wrong, Phelps and the shot putters were as well, yet they were immune from the same criticism that compelled Douglas to apologize and break down in tears privately.This leads into the larger point that Kaepernick was trying to make about the state of blacks and other persons of color in American society.

Though Kaepernick specifically alluded to police violence against those groups, the similarities with the criticism of Gabby Douglas still hold, because part of the “oppression” that Kaepernick specifically

referred to is the ordeal that groups of color go through when they exercise basic constitutional rights, such as their right to free speech or equal protection under the law.

People can reasonably disagree with Kaepernick’s choice, but to vilify it so harshly points to a larger problem with sports fans: we do not actually care when athletes voice their opinions; we only care when those opinions are different from our own.

When they do, it is time to act and retort.

We do not actually care when athletes voice their opinions.

In addition to being ignorant of basic civics, much of the criticism also incorrectly assumes that, because Kaepernick is an athlete and extremely wealthy relative to the vast majority of the population, he is somehow immune from the prejudices that many people of color, regardless of their personal or professional status, face on a regular basis.

For the better part of his adult life, Kaepernick, like most professional

athletes, has been viewed as a cog in a machine and a means to an end. I believe that all sports fans are guilty of this to varying degrees, but that only reinforces Kaepernick’s view of the current state of our country and what our flag represents.

He may have millions of dollars and a glamorous professional career, but, by the nature of the business that is professional sports and how he has been viewed by fans, the media and society at large since his late adolescence, he can relate to many of the victims of police violence and people of color as a whole whose lives often did not or do not seem to matter.

While these social problems and arguments may seem complex, the solution is actually quite simple. If people gave Kaepernick, Douglas and all athletes and people regardless of their skin color or societal status the same respect and dignity that they give to the American f lag or the national anthem, we would all be immeasurably better off.

Michael Ippolito is a senior in the College. The Water Cooler appears every Friday.

SOCCER, from B10

been more.” The team only shot six times against the Zips and thrice against the Mountaineers.

In order to compete with the high-scoring Maryland team, the Georgetown offense must find a way to break the scoring slump and generate more shots.

It faces a fantastic Maryland team in front of what is expected to be a large home crowd.

“I think this is the best team they’ve had since I’ve been here,” said Coach Wiese. “They’ve got a lot of players that go on that keep the level high, that play with the stereotypical Maryland fervor, high energy and just quality.”

Maryland is a team with experience and a dangerous offense. Its head coach, Sasho Cirovski, is in his 24th season with the team. The Terps have won four straight league championships; however, Georgetown has defeated Maryland in each of the last two seasons.

Although the task will be difficult, Coach Wiese believes that it is matchups such as this that will prepare his players for big games.

“The season will hit its stride. And I think the difference is that this group has a few more new guys who have to believe in that

FILE PHOTO: NAAZ MODAN/THE HOYA

Sophomore goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski has played in all 180 minutes this season and allowed two goals. a little bit. They haven’t been through those battles just yet,” said Coach Wiese.

“These are the things that they’ll be able to draw on hopefully at the end of this season that you’ll be able to say, ‘remember that’s how we’re going to have to apply ourselves.’ So these games are really impor-

tant.”

A win against a top ten team like Maryland would be a step in the right direction for Georgetown and give the Hoyas the confidence needed to succeed this season.

Kick off time is set for 7:30 p.m. at Ludwig Field in College Park, Md.

FOOTBALL

FEATURE

Cape League Tests Pitching MATHEWS, from B10

Chatham’s game-one upset over the Mariners with baseball, giving up just Mathews on the mound, five hits and allowing only the Anglers took the seone runner to reach scor- ries and went on to face ing position. the Yarmouth-Dennis Red “That’s one of the best Sox in the Eastern Division pitched games in that Finals. After dropping a situation that I’ve seen for close 9-8 decision in game a Chatham A,” Chatham one to Yarmouth-Dennis, manager John Schiffner the Anglers were eliminatsaid. “When ed the next you stare “The Cape is a day, losing down one 4-1. The Red of the best very different Sox would teams in the animal. It’s the go on to win league and the CCBL you get the very, very best c h a mp i o n win at their ship while place, that’s players from the Anglers special.” were left to every single Schiffner head back to has been team.” their respecwith Chative schools. tham for 24 Looking Simon mathews years. ahead to Junior Pitcher Mathews the comsaid he exing season perienced a for Georgesteep learning curve at the town baseball, Mathews beginning of the season, expects big things from however, and was forced himself and from his team to change his approach and thinks that his time to the game in order to with the Anglers will help succeed. “The Cape is a him become more of a different animal. It’s the complete pitcher. “I think very, very best players we’ve got a shot to be realfrom every single team all ly good and personally I’d around the country. The like to be a part of leading difference is one through this. Georgetown baseball nine, every single hitter in is on the come-up right every lineup, every single now,” Mathews said. Two pitcher on every staff is an of our best seasons in hisabsolute stud,” Mathews tory have been our last two said. “As the summer went seasons and we’re looking on it became clear to me to build on that this seaI had to become a better son and make some noise pitcher to actually do it. and make a run at a Big So I changed East chamthe style pionship.”

“There’s no of pitchT h e ing a little reason to think Georgetown bit, I mixed coaching in more he won’t be one staff see off-speed Mathews as of the best guys pitches, I dean integral veloped all in the league this part of the my off-speed team and pitches up year.” the leader there, and I of its pitchPETE WILK think I got a ing staff.

Head Coach lot better for In the having to do 2015-16, that.” About Mathews a month into the season, was arguably already the things started to click for team’s ace, throwing a the right-handed pitcher, team-high five complete and he entered the start- games and throwing 95.1 ing rotation for Chatham innings, by far the most on and impressed. the team.

“Going into the season, I During the team’s rough just wanted to pitch well, stretches, Mathews was ofbecause coming from a ten times its rock and one mid-major school, base- of its few reliable players. ball-wise, there’s not a ton “He’s one of the best of us up there. It’s mostly guys in the league last guys from Texas, Flori- year,” Head Coach Pete da State, and Louisville, Wilk said of his ace. schools like that. And so I “There’s no reason to just wanted to prove that think he won’t be one of I can compete with those the best guys in the league guys,” Mathews said. After this year.”

FILE PHOTO: ISABEL BINAMIRA/THE HOYA

Senior wide receiver Justin Hill appeared in 10 games last season. He caught six touchdowns and had a teamleading 13.8 average yards per catch on his way to being named to the All-Patriot League Second Team.

Hoyas Anticipate Breakout Talent FOOTBALL, from B10

Jake DeCicco, and linebacker Matt Satchell.

Georgetown will have to work to fill the voids left both on and off the field by those players. On offense, senior receiver Justin Hill, an All-Patriot League Second Team choice in 2015, will look to carry the Hoyas and help out senior quarterback Tim Barnes, who takes over for Nolan after sitting behind him for three years.

“Obviously losing Jo’el, Kyle, and Jake is obviously tough to replace but we have a lot of young guys who are ready to play and fill those roles, so I think our offense is looking pretty strong this season,” Hill said.

Barnes, a senior from Oradell, New Jersey, was selected as the No. 35 Joe Eacobacci Memorial Jersey recipient for the 2016 season, and will need to help steady the shaky Georgetown offense that was very inconsistent last year.

The Eacobacci #35 jersey is given annually to the player who best embodies the spirit and memory of Georgetown alumnus Joe Eacobacci, who was killed in the 9/11 attacks.

“It means a lot,” Barnes said. “It’s such a great honor to be honored by my teammates and coaches. It’s just an honor to wear it and I’ll do my best to represent it and honor his family,” Georgetown Head Coach Rob Sgarlata, in his third season with the team, expressed his confidence in Barnes to lead this team. “You’re lucky in the fact that Kyle Nolan graduates and Tim Barnes is right there, and I think he’s going to be one of the better players in the conference … Timmy’s one of those guys you want people saying he’s a Georgetown football player on and off the field. He holds himself to an extremely high standard and he’s done a good job of raising the level of the entire of-

fense and the team,” Sgarlata said.

Last season in the Pioneer Football League, Davidson finished last, or second to last, in every offensive or defensive team statistic, out of 11 total teams in the conference.

The Wildcats averaged only 12.5 points per game and only averaged 241.2 yards per game, which was last in both statistical categories in the conference. In hopes of improving team performance, Davidson Head Coach Paul Nichols had a lot of turnover on his coaching staff this season, bringing in seven new members to the coaching staff, including a new offensive coordinator and special teams coordinator. “[Davidson’s] offense is a little bit sporadic but we think we have schematically-sound defense, so anything we can see them throwing out, we’ve experienced all the different situations and things they can come out with so

we’re confident that we can stop anything,” junior safety David Akere said.

The Wildcats do boast one of the elite punt returners in the FCS in junior defensive back Ben Rowell, who comes into the season as a preseason All-America third team member. Rowell returned 17 punts last season for an average of 28.4 yards per return.

“We’re just excited and grateful and blessed to have an opportunity to play, especially to play with all my brothers and remember everything we’ve been through last year. … We didn’t come here for nothing, we believe we didn’t get this far to get this far,” Akere said.

A new season provides renewed hope, and optimism that this football program can get back to where it once was, and it all starts Saturday against Davidson.

The Hoyas are set to kick off the 2016-2017 season at 1 p.m. at Cooper Field.

SPORTS

Volleyball Georgetown (1-2) vs. Florida Atlantic (1-3) Friday 9 a.m.

Tampa, Fla.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

TALKING POINTS

FIELD HOCKEY The field hockey team looks to extend its two-game winning streak this weekend.

See B8

“

NUMBERS GAME

We didn’t come here for nothing. We believe we didn’t get this far to get this far.”

SENIOR CORNERBACK DAVID AKERE

MEN’S SOCCER

5

The number of total goals senior forward Grace Damaska has scored in her last two games.

FEATURE

Hoyas Battle Top-Ranked Terps DARIUS IRAJ

Hoya Staff Writer

Coming off two disappointing 1-0 losses this weekend in the Akron Classic in Ohio, the No. 24 Georgetown men’s soccer team (0-2-0) will travel to College Park, Md., on Friday night to face the No. 7 Maryland (1-0-1), a national championship contender.

The Hoyas are looking for their first win of the season, dropping games to the No. 1 Akron Zips (2-0-0) last Friday, and then to the West Virginia Mountaineers (1-1-0) two days later.

While the Blue and Gray did not perform particularly well, they were also the victims of bad luck and fatigue. The goal conceded in the first match came in the final seconds, ruining any chance for the Hoyas to force overtime.

“For all the good stuff that both teams were doing to create that goal, of course, that’s how you’re going to lose the game with thirty seconds to go.

So it wasn’t an issue of fatigue — it was just one of those things that just happened. It was a moment in the game, which is really unfortunate, because the guys played hard, I thought. They were focused, and they gave a great effort,” Georgetown Head Coach Brian Wiese said.

Georgetown faced West Virginia 36 hours later.

The Hoyas’ legs could not sustain enough energy to put together a solid performance, as Wiese attributed the loss to fatigue. “That was a game where I think we just got tired. It didn’t matter who we put on; the legs just weren’t there,” Wiese said.

Nevertheless, sophomore goalkeeper and cocaptain J.T. Marcinkowski performed well, saving 14 shots total in both games.

Marcinkowski was named to the Akron Classic AllTournament Team.

“I think the level of confidence is just really high,” Marcinkowski said. “I trust the guys in front of me, and I’m coming off a pretty good summer training with a couple different teams, with the Earthquakes pro team. I feel really confident.”

The sophomore goalkeeper has performed exceptionally despite an entirely new defensive line after all four of last year’s starters entered Major League Soccer.

The opposite end of the field has been a different story: The offense has failed to score a goal this season.

“I think the bigger issue is that we weren’t shooting enough,” Wiese said.

“I think the number of chances that we created over those first few games we would’ve liked to have See SOCCER, B9

GEORGETOWN ATHLETICS

Junior pitcher Simon Mathews was 5-4 in the 2015-16 season. He had an ERA of 2.45 and threw a team-leading five complete games to go along with a team-high 95.1 innings pitched.

Mathews Impresses in Cape League AIDAN CURRAN Hoya Staff Writer

The Cape Cod Baseball League — the top collegiate summer baseball league in the country — has had many household names play in its ballparks throughout its 131-year history. Kris Bryant, Brandon Crawford, Josh Donaldson and Todd Frazier all played in the league in their college years. This summer, Georgetown senior pitcher Simon Mathews joined the ranks of these stars when he made his way up north

to the small peninsula in Massachusetts to play for the Chatham Anglers.

The 10-team league brings together the top collegiate baseball players from across the nation every summer, and is a hotspot for Major League Baseball scouts and front office executives to watch prospects because the Cape League is the only summer league that uses wooden bats. Mathews, a 6-foot-2, 175-pound righthanded pitcher from West Haven, Conn., was the lone Hoya to play in the Cape League this summer.

Last season, Mathews was the ace of the Georgetown pitching staff, leading the team in ERA at 2.45, wins, complete games and innings pitched at 95.1. Mathews started most games in Cape Cod but also came out of the bullpen at times as a relief pitcher. He finished the season with a 4.30 ERA and was third on the team in strikeouts with 23.

“The Cape was my third summer league, and it’s the pinnacle of everything and you don’t really understand why until you’re

FOOTBALL

Hoya Staff Writer

After finishing last season with a 4-7 record, the Georgetown football team is ready to begin the 2016-17 season and continue their upward trend of improving by one win each year since the 2013-14 season.

The season kicks off Satur-

day at Cooper Field with a nonconference matchup against the Davidson Wildcats of the Pioneer Football League.

The Hoyas were a few crucial plays away from finishing last season with a .500 record or better. Behind the play of last year’s seniors, they had a few highlights such as the Homecoming

weekend 38-7 blowout of Lafayette College and the win against Bucknell on the road. The last time the Hoyas and Wildcats faced off was in 2013. The Hoyas grabbed an impressive 42-6 victory that day, with six different Georgetown players scoring touchdowns.

Another win like that to kick off this season would

give this young Georgetown football team a nice kick start.

The Hoyas must prove they can overcome the losses of key senior players from last year who graduated, such as quarterback Kyle Nolan, running back Jo’el Kimpela, wide receiver See FOOTBALL, B9

Michael Ippolito

National Anthem Sparks Controversy

T

GEORGETOWN ATHLETICS

Senior quarterback Tim Barnes appeared in five games last season and threw for 79 yards total. He also rushed for 47 yards and is this year’s recipient of the No. 35 Joe Eacobacci Memorial Jersey.

Visit us online at thehoya.com/sports

See MATHEWS, B9

THE WATER COOLER

GU Hosts Davidson to Open Season AIDAN CURRAN

there,” Mathews said. “Just the whole vibe of the place, the whole town of Chatham would come out to our games. It was a blast.”

Mathews got the ball in game one of the Anglers’ first-round series against the top-seeded Harwich Mariners and put on a dazzling performance against the top offense in the Cape League, setting a CCBL record for strikeouts in a game in the 2016 season with 11 strikeouts. Mathews tossed eight innings of shutout

he national anthem is quickly becoming a lightning rod of controversy for American athletes. Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas was hounded by the media for what was deemed inappropriate and unpatriotic conduct when she did not place her hand over her heart for the national anthem in Rio. On Friday, San Francisco 49ers’ quarterback Colin Kaepernick remained seated during the national anthem before San Francisco’s third preseason game against the Green Bay Packers, and social media was quick to explode with criticism of Kaepernick.

These reactions, while understandable to a point, only serve to prove both Douglas and Kaepernick’s larger points about American sports and society as a whole. The first glaring issue many sports fans have is the desire for sports to remain free from politics, even though that is impossible. Almost every aspect of sports is political in some way or another, from Congress granting anti-trust exemptions to Major League Baseball in the

early 1900s to owners continually demanding that cities and states fund stadiums.Hell, the fact that we play the national anthem before every single sporting event makes sports at least somewhat political. Fans are all too eager to lobby politicians when it comes to spending tax dollars on a stadium but are loath to listen to an athlete’s opinion on something social or political when it differs from their own. While one can reasonably argue that those are different forms of politicking, it is politicking nonetheless. Therefore, the issue fans really have is not that sports should be divorced from politics but rather how specifically that marriage should function and, most importantly, which parties are given a voice that will be heard and respected.

The next issue is consistency and context. In Douglas’ case, she was not even protesting anything or trying to make a political statement. The fact that she felt compelled to apologize on social media to the rabid Twittersphere See IPPOLITO, B9