September 9th, 2015

Page 1

THE

VOL:94 Issue 1

TO R C H torchonline.com

The independent student newspaper of St. John’s University

Activating the minds of SJU

Renovation rekindles Montgoris Dining Hall experience

LIVIA PAULA Features Editor

When St. John’s University junior Evi Carrillo was looking for a mental health awareness club or organization to join during her sophomore year, she was disappointed. As the psychology student was digging through the University’s OrgSync, where all the campus organizations are listed, she could not find any organization pertaining to her interests. However, Carrillo didn’t stop looking. She decided to broaden her research and check what other universities had to offer on mental health awareness for students, and there was something that caught her attention. “The recurring Active Minds just kept coming up,” Carrillo said. Active Minds is a national nonprofit organization that allows students to speak about mental health in a safe environment. It is an organization found on campuses across the country with the intent to rule out the negative connotation surrounding mental health while raising awareness on the issue. “We want to be advocates for mental health awareness as well as creating a comfortable, welcoming environment for people to come and just be part of something big,” Carrillo said. “We really want to change the stigma around mental health and I think the first thing we should do is to start by having a conversation about it.” According to Carrillo, St. John’s used to have a chapter of Active Minds, but it was discontinued. Carrillo is now the president of the re-established chapter under the advisement of Ruth DeRosa, the associate director of the University’s Wellness Education and Prevention Services. “We are reorganizing [Active Minds] through SGI and with the help of the department of wellness,” Carrillo said. (Continued on Page 8)

Entertainment Summer Shorts: What happened the last three months? Page 6

PHOTO EDITOR/DIANA COLAPIETRO

TALIA TIRELLA Co-­Editor-­in-­Chief

This year, St. John’s students finally got what they had been asking for: a renovated Montgoris Dining Hall that includes new seating, new food choices and improvements based on student input. The dining hall, which students affectionately call “Monty’s,” received several upgrades when it comes to both design and dining. Scott Lemperle, executive director of conference & auxiliary services, explained that the new design was meant to feel open and create a flow to help guests get their meals and everything else they need in a quicker fashion. New colors and designs in conjunction with different seating and dining stations, “bring it to a first class dining experience,” Lemperle said.

Sports The Torch checks up on Tim Parker’s MLS Career Page 11

The changes are noticeable from the moment one walks in. Booths have been added around the edge of the dining room, and a semi-transparent partition separates the flow of incoming students from those who are dropping off their used dishware and leaving. When students go to get their food of choice, they notice that the food stations, or “destination stations” as Lemperle called them, have been moved out further into the space. These stations were brought out toward the dining area so the food could be made to order by the chefs, who could work outside of the kitchen and be visible to students. Bringing the stations out and also separating them with open space allows for students to circle around on either side of the stations. In turn, lines are shorter and turnover is higher, according to Lemperle. “We wanted to achieve separate desti-

Opinion Vincentian View: Fr. Patrick Griffin Page 4

nation stations,” Lemperle said. “It’s handled the flow of students really well.” Lemperle explained how, for example, having a double-sided salad bar allows students to make their salad from either side, increasing the number of students served and preventing a long line from forming like it used to with the old design. Lemperle also said that the new Montgoris salad bar is 30% bigger than the salad bar in the Law School Cafeteria. As for food choices, students can pick from ten different stations. These include Breads and Spreads, Ice Cream, Coffee, the Dessert Shoppe, Ignite, Create, Fresh Market, Mangia Mia, My Pantry and Hikari. “Hikari has been a huge hit,” Lemperle said. (Continued on Page 3)

News Activity Fair allows students to explore their interests Page 3

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Photo of the Week: Managing Board XCIII

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TORCH Â PHOTO Â EDITOR/DIANA Â COLAPIETRO

St.  John’s  students  eat  and  take  in  the  new  atmosphere  in  the  recently  renovated  Montgoris  Dining  Hall.

TALIA TIRELLA Co-­Editor-­In-­Chief Continued from page 1) This station in particular allows students to choose their own stir-fry toppings, their choice of protein and then to watch as the chefs cook their meal right in front of them. Hikari offers what the new Montgoris design is all about: made-to-order food, right in front of the students. Junior Tiana Guzman said she enjoys the Hikari station the best. “It seems more organized than making the stir-fry yourself.â€? Sophomore Ashley Ehman agreed, and said it was her favorite station. “It gives students a more personalized experience, and everything is made to order. Plus, it’s really delicious.â€? Other stations still offer food choices that are familiar to returning students. Angela, the Omelette Lady, now resides in the back of the main serving area, ready to

make omelettes until the early afternoon. Lemperle said that this gives students a brunch option if they have class later in the day. For students with gluten-free or special dietary needs, Lemperle said the My Pantry station is perfect for them, as it is stocked with gluten-free and healthy choices. Students have been satisfied with the renovations overall, but have a few small complaints. Junior Jackie Priesler said she wishes the drink station was easier to locate, but enjoys the renovations overall. “I like how it’s more spacious, and easier to find somewhere to eat, and a lot nicer to look at than a boring buffet,� Priesler said. Ehman said, “Overall, I think it was rather easy to navigate and find everything. The only thing I found [to be] on the annoying side was placing the condiments in the middle of the seating area. When the dining hall is crowded it becomes a maze to get what you need without hovering

TORCH Â PHOTO Â EDITOR/DIANA Â COLAPIETRO

Donuts  and  pastries  sit  atop  the  renovated  Dessert  Shoppe  counter. Â

over someone else’s table.� Guzman offered her opinion on the condiments and utensils being placed in the dining area. “There should be more [utensil] stations around, instead of just one right in the middle,� Guzman said. Ehman added that she appreciates how the University took student input seriously, but wishes there was a better showing of school pride. “I would liked to have seen more school related pride. Maybe like pictures from school events or sports teams would be a fun change every now and then,� Ehman said. Montgoris was built in 2000 as part of the Residence Village, according to Lemperle and Michael Gulczynski, resident district manager of dining services on campus. Gulczynski said the dining hall has always had the same design until this year, with the exception of a cosmetic refreshment about seven years ago. This is the

first major renovation since the building was built. Gulczynski and Lemperle said that the Dining Services Advisory Committee used focus groups to gather student input and incorporate that into the new design. “Our goal was to bring [Montgoris] to the point that it would meet the students’ needs,� Gulczynski said. There have been changes made to the dining areas around campus the last few years, including Marillac and the Red Storm Diner, according to Gulczynski. Gulczynski said the design for Montgoris has been two years in the making, and the committee worked on the design all last year. The Montgoris renovation was the last phase of the renovation process on campus. As for any changes in the future, Lemperle and Gulczynski said that there will be menu and food concept changes. For now, they hope students will reap the benefits of the open floor plan, destination stations and made-to-order food.

Activities Fair aims to promote engagement and boost student interest AMANDA UMPIERREZ News  Editor The annual Activities Fair is set to take place on Thursday, Sept. 10, with over 100 St. John’s organizations recruiting new members and promoting their clubs. Nathonya Chery, a freshman early childhood education major, anticipates learning more about the different organizations around campus. “I’m excited to find out about what actually [happens] on campus,â€? she said. “I feel like other than the red carpet welcome events, I have no idea what else to do.â€? Freshman communications major Tatyana Samonte-Escano and freshman liberal arts major Gicem Osman agree. “I’m looking forward to learning a lot of new information and what there is to do at St. John’s,â€? Osman said. “It introduces you to new aspects of college,â€? Samonte-Escano said. Besides meeting prospective new members, organizations use the fair to test and utilize recruiting strategies. President of

Philippine Americans Reaching Everyone, Maria Marquez, noted the organization’s social media and in-person presence as a high-use in recruitment. “We’re very aggressive with social media. We use all platforms, like Instagram, Twitter and such, and we’re really into face-to-face action,� she said. Vice President of Student Programming Board and Secretary/Public Relations of St. John’s acapella group Shruti Catharine Mariampillai, revealed a distinct recruitment tactic that Shruti applies. “We use business cards,� she said. The fair incorporates cultural, academic or personal interest organizations to fit student pursuits and encourages the St. John’s community to become involved on campus aside from sole academics. Mariampillai believes the Activities Fair can help students in highlighting their hobbies. “College is really a time to see your interests besides your majors,� she said. Marquez concurs and views the fair as

PHOTO/ST.  JOHN’S  UNIVERSITY  STUDENT  LIFE  FACEBOOK

Student  organizations  recruit  new  members  and  promote  their  clubs  at  the  2014  Activities  Fair. Â

a method to find one’s passion. “It’s really exciting as a freshman,� she said. “You see all the different paths you can take and a slew of possibilities.

The fair will be held during common hour, 1:50 p.m. to 3:15 p.m, on the Great Lawn.

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Opinion 6WDÉą (GLWRULDO ERDUG ;&,,, TALIA TIRELLA Co-Editor-in-Chief JENNY CHEN Co-Editor-in-Chief KYLE FITZGERALD Managing Editor CHEYANNE GONZALES General Manager AMANDA UMPIERREZ News Editor STEPHEN ZITOLO Sports Editor LIVIA PAULA Features Editor JASMINE IMANI DAVIS Entertainment Editor SUZANNE CIECHALSKI Opinion Editor

Flames of the Torch We here at the Torch would just like to welcome back all of you who have returned and would also like to introduce ourselves to the class of 2019. You have all come at a time with much change amongst the university. It seems that everything has a new look here, from the Chris Mullin-led men’s basketball team to the brand new Montgoris Dining Hall. Now it is easy to get flustered and overwhelmed by all of this change you are experiencing at once: living in a new community surrounded by new people in an environment which itself is evolving. So we want to extend a helping hand to you all and help you get acclimated to St. John’s and everything it has to offer. First things first: get your routine down. Your days will flow much smoother (although you will have some curveballs thrown at you, this is college after all) if you know where you are going and what you plan to do with your time. It’s so easy to get swamped under your homework and other responsibilities, so make sure you stay on top of that to give yourself as much breathing room as possible. For anyone struggling to meet people here, join a couple of clubs or organizations. They’re a great way to meet people with similar personalities that you can become friends with for all your years here. Just a little tip: only join no more than a couple or else you risk being too involved. Most organizations meet during common hour and you can’t at-

tend two or five meetings at once. One of the best aspects of this university is its location. Don’t be afraid to take the train or the bus in and around the city. Trust us, you’re going to have to know your way around eventually so it’s best to rip the bandaid off and risk getting lost. Just take your Metro Card and go on an adventure somewhere, anywhere. Go on a trip to the Flatiron district and then make your way down to Little Italy and try to find your way back without using your Google Maps app. Take some time to get to know your professors as well. They’re all here to help you how they can and probably will teach you a couple of courses over your time as an undergraduate. So get to know them so they understand your work habits and overall personality. They have plenty of wisdom to teach and mentor you. Why not take some time in this beautiful weather to go out and get some exercise? It’s a great way to relieve some of the stress and anxieties that college imposes on you. Don’t put it off, either! Get in the habit of exercising now so you can escape those winter blues by working out. There are so many things to do when you’re living in the city that never sleeps. Find what works for you and we promise you’ll love it here! We here at the Torch wish you all a fantastic school year and we hope to see many of you at our table at the Activities Fair on Thursday, Sept. 10.

The aftermath of 9/11: SJU’s role FR. PATRICK J. GRIFFIN, CM Special  to  the  Torch  In my room, on the highest shelf above my books, I have a white hard hat and a dark blue air-filter mask. These are reminders of the events of 9/11 for me. Like thousands of other ministers, after the crashing of the planes into the Towers, I volunteered to serve at the site as a chaplain. I was summoned to do so only once, many months after the actual event. I made my way into Midtown to a hotel lobby where I provided my credentials, received the above gear and, with several other ministers, traveled to lower Manhattan in a police car. Inside a roomy tent, several operation-style tables stood against a wall. The system was organized: if a worker uncovered a part of a human body, he/she would place it in a body bag and bring it to the tent. One of the ministers (his/her particular denomination did not matter) would ask God’s blessing for the deceased in a short prayer, and the remains would be refrigerated until they could be taken to a hospital. The responsibility was not demanding, but it was heart-wrenching. Lots of opportunities and reasons for prayer and reflection presented themselves. Sometimes, a worker would come in and ask for someone to pray with them. After some hours, I was given a break. As I left the area of the tent, I strove to remain out of people’s way. In an environment of constant movement and rolling heavy equipment, trying to stay unobtrusive presented a challenge. I made my way, almost by accident, to the SJU Manhattan Campus, which was on Murray Street. This building, I learned, was the first

structure that the destructive airplane crashes had not damaged. Our building was firmly situated in the “Red Zone.� Thus, after the students were safe, SJU offered it to the city/state/federal government to use as a respite center for those working at the site. I entered this environment. The dining area functioned continuously; doctors, nurses and therapists populated the upper floor classrooms tending to those hurt in the work. The highest floors, the dorms, provided sleep and rest space for the laborers. SJU students lived on the Manhattan campus on the morning of the attack. The first and most important concern for the University on the day of 9/11 was getting our students securely off this campus and re-situated in Queens. Students on the Staten Island campus could look across the water and view the burning towers. On the Queens campus, the smoke from the towers could also be seen from the upper floors of some of our buildings (St. Albert’s and the Library). Everyone remained glued to whatever screen carried the story. St. John’s defines itself as metropolitan. We truly felt like a part of New York during this tragedy. We mourned with our city and its citizens and offered whatever support we could. The events touched students, alumni, administrators and faculty — really everyone—directly or indirectly. Memorials and funeral services filled the next weeks. Everyone felt his or her faith challenged and put to the test. The hardhat and blue air-filter mask received little use. Yet, they continue to remind me of that tragic event and the small part that St. John’s played in the history of our country.

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Opinions  expressed  in  edito-­ rials,  columns,  letters  or  car-­ toons  are  not  necessarily  those  of  the  student  body,  faculty  or  administrations  of  St.  John’s  University.

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*XQV GRQ¡W NLOO SHRSOH Iran nuclear agreement: people kill people too lenient? ABHISHEK JOSHI Staff  Writer On Aug. 26, WDBJ7’s reporter Alison Parker and cameraman Adam Ward were gunned down in the middle of a live broadcast interview. The shooter was identified as former co-worker Bryce Williams. At the time of the shooting, Alison Parker was interviewing the executive director of the local chamber of commerce, Vicki Gardner. The prime targets of the attack were Parker and Ward, although Gardner was injured during the shootout. Unfortunately, Parker and Ward ended up losing their lives. Following the shooting Williams killed himself. Although there are speculations being made about the attack, the main reason appears to be animosity in the workplace. This incident has not only further shed light on the issue of psychological pressure in the workplace, but also brought the subject of gun laws back into the spotlight. When I first heard about the attacks I thought that it was just another gun attack. I wasn’t happy with myself for thinking that, but I couldn’t help thinking of how accustomed I have become to these violent incidents. People who claim that the possession of a gun was necessary for their personal safety have perpetrated a majority of crimes that have occurred relating to gun laws over the past few years. These people ultimately ended up taking away the lives of others. Parker and Ward were actually the seventh and eighth journalists killed

while fulfilling their reporting duties in the last two decades. This shooting also brings up the question of how safe or unsafe the job of any journalist can be, as it is well known that there are many times when a journalist is in the field in an area that is unsafe. Since the subject of workplace stress and tension is also brought up, it is important that, as professionals, we realize how great of an issue this can become in the future- a man was condemned to kill his own co-workers and himself because of it. Three lives were lost for a reason that no one may ever really know. It has been said, and once again proven, that guns do not kill people, people do. As long as the questions surrounding gun laws and gun control continues, we need to understand that humans are considered to be one of the most intelligent and diligent creatures. If we can’t control our own emotions and actions, then what good are we? Self-control should be the hot issue rather than gun control since it’s clear that a lack of self-control is what has been going on for awhile now. It remains to be seen whether this event will act as a catalyst to boost any actions to be taken in respect to gun laws and psychological disorders related to stress.

PHOTO/WIKIPEDIA

SUZANNE CIECHALSKI Opinion  Editor During a historic moment in foreign policy, enough votes were finally secured last week to ensure that the long awaited nuclear agreement with Iran would not fail in an unsupportive Congress. After spending an enormous amount of time negotiating a deal deemed suitable enough in its limitations on Iran’s nuclear program, President Obama and Democrats alike celebrated this victory while most Republicans were left as infuriated as they were since the proposal of the agreement in July. It is important to note that Iran has been a state sponsor of terrorism for years, a fact that is fueling the vehement disagreement on the nuclear agreement between Democrats and Republicans. The United States and Iran’s relations have been historically hostile. The New York Post reported just days after the agreement was reached that the nation’s “supreme leaderâ€? Ali Khamenei pledged that the nation’s “policy towards the arrogant U.S. will not change,â€? followed by chants of “death to Americaâ€? and “death to Israel,â€? another nation that is against the agreement. Yet, these chants have been explained by various news sources as having a far different meaning than actual “death to America.â€? USA Today reports that “death to Americaâ€? in Iran actually means American policies, not the American people. Perhaps, this is true. Nonetheless, such a chant is still a sign of disregard for the United States. While it is not America’s role to police the rest of the world, the United States has played a significant role in the nuclear talks with Iran and the formation of the nuclear agreement. If death to American policy is something that officials wish to see, how can it be certain that Iranian officials will not end up disregarding the agreement somewhere down the line? Iran is also still holding the Washington Post’s reporter,

Jason Rezaian on charges of espionage, as well as three other Americans. During the nuclear talks, America made it clear that the release of these people was crucial, yet their release was not a part of the deal. Now, a verdict has apparently been reached in Rezaian’s case, but it has yet to be revealed. Talk on whether he will be released or not has varied amongst Iranian officials. Some say that a trade for Iranians held in America is a possibility, while others say that a trade is completely off the table. While not securing the release of these citizens, the deal does seemingly have several provisions that appear to be victorious for the United States and the rest of the world. The International Atomic Energy Agency’s right to inspect all of Iran’s nuclear sites, a reduction of Iran’s uranium stockpile, limits on its enrichment capacity, as well as its research and development on centrifuges and investigations into its past are included, among other things. In exchange, the United States and European Union have promised to lift or suspend harsh sanctions. Should Iran not stick to its end of the bargain, the suspended sanctions would be put back into place, positive for sure. However, a suspension of the sanctions has proven not to be enough. Khamenei stated on Friday that the nuclear deal would not go through unless sanctions are lifted entirely. Given Iran’s deceptive past in regards to its nuclear program, this agreement is truly lenient and a chance for the nation to redeem itself. However, by continuing to hold Americans as prisoners, advocating for “death� to American policies and by being obstinate in regards to the suspension of sanctions, Iran is proving many people’s fears that this deal may be just a bit too lenient. Rather than actually solving the problem and relieving the animosity between America and Iran, we have simply delayed the resolution of issues that have plagued both sides for decades.

Rose Loving is inconsistent It’s a memory of wishful thinking and self-realization Like the game board full of clues. Love is hidden, but yet when found, it is like waves being washed upon shore, splashing your feet sending a rush of chills in your bones. It’s exciting yet scary. Loving is the heavy breathing you feel when you become close to those eyes that you are afraid of getting too close. Close enough to know that, loving is self-destructive. Real love is. Finding yourself in the depths of no despair.

“Pangaea� By: Nicole Marino

By:  Reza  Moreno

Lifestyle

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Activating the minds of SJU Students bring back mental health awareness organization to SJU (Continued from page 1)

Carrillo said that when she emailed DeRosa about starting the organization towards the end of her sophomore year, the timing was perfect.According to her, the department had just received a suicide prevention grant. Now, the money will also be used to assist Active Minds to “get it going,” as Carrillo said. Vice president of the chapter, sophomore Ashli Wade, said that it is important to remember that although the organization is open to make people comfortable, create bonds and have conversations, they are not a support group. “We are not here to just talk and then go home,” Wade said.

“We want to actually bond and know each other.” Active Minds members will meet every other Monday between 1:50-3:15 p.m. They will also be in the fall activities fair, the wellness fair and the suicide prevention walk happening on Sept. 17. Both Carrillo and Wade express that the club is open to any student regardless of their major. They said that although mental health issues are mainly talked about within the psychology major and its students, it affects everyone and knowledge on the subject is key. “We want people to know that they’re not alone,” Wade said.

PHOTO/FLICKR CREATIVE COMMONS

Active Minds table at San Diego State University.

0RQW\V 5HYLHZ The renovated Montgoris dining hall experience LAUREN EDEN

Staff Writer If you were to take a random survey last year on students’ thoughts on Montgoris Dining Hall, you would likely hear some negative responses along with the occasional groan. However, this school year, the newly renovated Montgoris, popularly known as ‘Montys’, is getting positive feedback from students with meal plans, and it may even be worth a guest swipe if you don’t have one. The food layout is completely different. Although most of the options have stayed the same just with different locations, there are some new additions. One of the most talked about changes is the new hibachi station that offers stirfry, which you get to customize by choosing all the protein, veggies and grains that your stomach desires. “It feels like Benihana, and I love Benihana,” said Jon Byrne, a senior at St. John’s. If there’s one thing about Montys that everyone can agree on, it is that the omelettes are impeccable and Angela, the woman who makes them, is an absolute angel. The omelette station may have moved to where the main stations were, but the omelettes are still as good as ever.

The deli station, which remains one of the most popular, has moved to where the crepes used to be. There is still a salad bar, a pizza station and another station that features different dishes each day. There’s also a grill station with hot dogs, hamburgers and grilled chicken. Not only has the food itself significantly improved, but the sleek new design makes the dining hallway more attractive and inviting to the St. John’s community. “I believe the renovation that has been made streamlines the process of obtaining the more desirable meals in Montys like omelettes and stir-fry,” Byrne commented. “Providing a more adequate dining hall was completely necessary.” It makes sense to say that the interior design of restaurants/eateries impacts the overall experience of customers. For example, if there are two restaurants that serve food equal in taste, what the guests may rely on when deciding between the two may come down to the atmosphere that the eatery provides. Can the new, renovated Montys be considered to have five-star quality food? Not quite. But the new ambiance definitely makes dining there a more enjoyable experience.

ALL PHOTOS/TORCH PHOTO EDITOR/DIANA COLAPIETRO

St. John’s students and staff experience the new stations and culinary options that the newly renovated Montys has to offer.

Sports

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9ROOH\EDOO GRPLQDQW LQ :HVW &RDVW VZHHS KEISHA RAYMOND Staff Writer

The St. John’s women’s volleyball team swept through the competition at the Saint Mary’s Invitational as they came home with wins over Bethune-Cookman, Fresno State and St. Mary’s. They opened up the tournament by sweeping Bethune-Cookman in straight sets (25-17, 25-11, 25-17). The Red Storm’s (5-2) defense was the key factor in the win as they held the Wildcats to a zero hitting percentage. St. John’s had a total of 37 digs and eight blocks on the day as sophomore libero Delaney D’Amore and senior setter Deniz Mutlugil had career days. D’Amore led the Johnnies defense with 16 digs (career-high), while Mutlugil had 25 assists and three service aces (career- high). Senior outside hitters Karin Palgutova and Yaidy Santiago were instrumental as they contributed nine and eight kills each. Freshman Pelin Aroguz had a coming-of-age type of game as she had nine kills and a .278 hitting percentage. “We played a solid match tonight from the start and had strong contributions from Aroguz, [Julia] Cast and

Santiago to lead the way,” St. John’s head coach Joanne Persico said. Day two of the Saint Mary’s Invitational saw the Red Storm defeat the Fresno State Bulldogs, 3-1 (25-19, 2519, 11-25, 25-20). St. John’s had five players with five or more kills. Respectively, outside hitters Palgutova and Aroguz had a stellar match versus the Bulldogs. Palgutova had 18 kills (season-high) with a .351 hitting percentage and Aroguz completed a career-high 11 kills plus a .429 hitting percentage. “We got a terrific win with Palgutova and Aroguz leading the way. I am so proud of the team and how they fought through that fourth set to get the victory,” Persico said. Also contributing to the Red Storm victory were middle blockers Danisha Moss and Julia Cast. Moss came up with five kills, a career-high .714 hitting percentage and five blocks. Cast had six kills, four blocks and a career-best three service aces. In the fourth set, there were 10 ties and each team had the lead at some point. The Johnnies would go on a 5-0 run to end the match and win 25-20. In the championship round of Saint Mary’s Invitational, the Red Storm won against host school Saint Mary’s in an instant classic.

“That was one of the best performances of any St. John’s volleyball team that I have ever coached. I’m incredibly proud of my team,” Persico said. With the score 2-2 going into the fifth set, Palgutova had an attack error in the middle of the fifth set to give the Gaels a 10-9 lead. The Red Storm took the lead back when Palgutova recorded three consecutive kills that forced the Gaels to call a timeout. After the timeout, the Red Storm and Gaels would tie six more times. Aroguz would complete two kills to help Red Storm win the set 17-15 and claim victory. The Red Storm had a .326 hitting percentage, which was a season-best and also had 76 kills. Palgutova led the Red Storm with a career-high 31 kills, .362 hitting clip, 16 digs and three blocks. Senior setter Deniz Mutlugil had a season-best 60 assists to help key the victory. Aroguz and freshman Lexie Lobdell played a major part in the victory. Aroguz got 11 kills and a .292 percentage. Lobdell had 11 kills, .385 attacking percentage and six digs. Palgutova’s impressive weekend garnered her Big East Player of the Week honors. The Red Storm will next be in action for the Jack Kaiser Volleyball Classic starting on Sept. 11.

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Karin Palgutova dominated during the recent west coast trip as she garnered Big East Player of the Week honors.

5HG 6WRUP VSOLWV ZHHNHQG PDWFKHV LQ 1HZ (QJODQG REZA MORENO Staff Writer

This past weekend, during a visit to the New England region, the St. John’s women’s soccer team (5-1) split two games, the win coming against Boston College (2-1). Their first loss of the season went to Brown (1-2) on Friday. “I feel that this may be the best freshman class our women’s soccer program has ever recruited. Anna Maria Baldursdottir has already established herself as a great asset to us defensively, Lucy Whipp has been starting as a wide forward and Christina Bellero has scored three goals in the last three games (including the winning goal in OT at BC),” St. John’s head coach Ian Stone said. On Friday night, in Providence against Brown, the Bears’ Mikela Waldman scored their first goal in the fourth minute. Unfortunately, Brown would jump out to a 2-0 lead as they scored their second goal during the 62nd minute as senior defender Georgia Kearney-Perry was taken down and Brown’s Amanda Lane got the ball past the outstretched arms of goalkeeper Diana Poulin. After a rough patch on offense with Brown’s defense causing very few shots for St. John’s during the second half, the Red Storm changed up their offense in order to outshoot the Bears 4-0. The changes led to St. John’s freshman Christina Bellero scoring her second goal of the season just 20 seconds after Lane’s goal in the 62nd minute, thanks to senior Rachel Daly’s assist. It would be

the only goal of the whole game for the Red Storm, however. The Red Storm did come back around on Sunday as they beat Boston College in Chestnut Hill, Mass. in overtime 2-1. “Our team had to dig really deep in order to get this win,” Stone said. “Once again our squad depth was what helped us out in the latter stages of the game. “We knew that Boston College would be an important game for our NCAA Tournament résumé. To beat a perennial NCAA Tournament team on the road is a phenomenal accomplishment for our Program.” The Red Storm didn’t waste any time in getting on the scoreboard Sunday evening. In the game’s first two minutes, Rachel Daly burst into the box, setting her up nicely for a goal before she was yanked down by a Boston College defender. Daly was given a penalty kick as a result and she sent a strike to the back of the net to give the Red Storm a 1-0 lead. For the next 68 minutes, both teams were locked into a hard back-and-forth affair as the score stayed at 1-0 St. John’s. Then, in the 70th minute, Boston College’s Hayley Dowd found some daylight and was able to tie things up at 1-1. Neither team would be able to find the back of the net for the remainder of regulation. In St. John’s case, it was outstanding play by Poulin in net that kept the Eagles from scoring. The game would have to be decided in overtime. In the first 25 seconds of overtime, thfreshman Bellero would decide the game for the Johnnies and score the

game winner off an assist from fellow freshman Samie Scaffidi. In Bellero’s young collegiate career, she has already registered two game-winning goals. On Tuesday, Bellero was named both the Big East Offensive Player and Freshman of the Week. Coach Stone is well-prepared for what this season will bring the team. “I am excited that our Athletic Trainer,Ryan Ross and our Sports Performance Coach

Rob Basile are working hard to keep our players healthy and strong. The depth that we have in this year’s squad should allow Red Storm women’s soccer fans to become excited about how far this team can go into postseason play. For that to take place, our student-athletes have to stay focused and work hard every single day,” Stone said.

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Christina Bellero secured the victory on Sunday for St. John’s as she scored the game-­ winning goal 25 seconds into overtime, the second game-­winner for the freshman this season.

10

6W -RKQ¡V \HW WR JHW Ă€UVW YLFWRU\ IDOO WR TROY MAURIELLO Staff  Writer Â

Youth and inexperience were prevalent this weekend for the St. John’s men’s soccer team, as they dropped two straight games against local rivals Princeton and Hofstra. The Red Storm started four freshmen on Friday night against Princeton; however, it was a veteran, junior forward Dela Agbotse, who got them on the board for the first time this season in the 41st minute. After a beautiful cross from true freshman Filippo Ricupati, Agbotse, who came off the bench earlier in the half, was able to easily find the back of the net and give the Johnnies a 1-0 lead going into halftime. However, the second half would not be as kind to St. John’s. After goalkeeper Jordan Stagmiller was forced to make a few nice saves to begin the half, he would finally be beaten on a corner kick in the 70th minute to level the score at 1-1. Then, just 17 minutes later, the Tigers would use another corner kick to take the lead. It was Thomas Sanner of Princeton who would corral the eventual game-winner off a corner and beat Stagmiller for the goal. St. John’s was not able to respond in the game’s closing moments and fell 2-1 to Princeton. “Princeton’s a good team and we played very well for the first half, and into the second half,� head coach Dave Masur said after the match. “I don’t think physically our younger players and our

new players know the intensity of college soccer, and what it’s going to take to win.� The Johnnies were right back in action on Sunday night against Hofstra for their fourth game in 10 days. The Red Storm, again, came out of the gate strong against the Pride, as they had four scoring chances in the first 22 minutes of the game, but, again, could not capitalize on any of them. Hofstra, on the other hand, was able to make the most out of one of their first chances of the game. Harri Hawkins was able to bury an open shot from inside the box in the 28th minute to give the Pride a 1-0 lead going into halftime. Almost immediately as the second half got going, the Pride would extend their advantage. This time it was Meshack Eshun Addy who went upper 90 for a worldclass goal in the 47th minute to make it 2-0. After Eshun Addy’s fantastic goal, St. John’s had a few decent chances to get on the board, but none of them came to fruition. They were shut out for the third time in their first four games and fell to Hofstra 2-0. “It’s a game of making sure that everything goes right,� said Masur. “We had a couple breakdowns, and they capitalized on those situations.� “We have to just keep practicing, training and we’re going to eventually get together going forward,� Agbotse said. St. John’s will next take on Denver Saturday night at Belson Stadium.

  TORCH  PHOTO/CHEYANNE  GONZALES

Mike  Prosuk  tries  to  blow  past  a  Princeton  defender  on  Friday  night  at  Belson  Stadium.  Â

Where are they now? The Torch checks up on four former Red Storm soccer stars WILSON SY Staff  Writer Â

Chris Wingert 2000-2003

Tim Parker 2011-2014 Jen Leaverton 2008-2011 A  standout  for  the  Red  Storm  from  2008-­11,  the  former  forward  stand-­ out  was  named  assistant  coach  for  the  Women’s  Soccer  program  in  early  July.  7KH 0DQVÂżHOG 0DVVDFKXVHWWV QDWLYH spent  the  past  three  seasons  as  an  as-­ sistant  coach  at  New  York  University.  In  2014,  Leaverton  and  her  colleagues  were  recognized  as  the  University  Athletic  Association  (UAA)  Coaching  Staff  of  the  Year  when  NYU  reached  the  NCAA  Division  III  Tournament.  Leaverton  currently  ranks  10th  on  the  St.  John’s  all-­time  scoring  list  with  17  JRDOV DQG KROGV WZR FHUWLÂżFDWLRQV IURP the  National  Soccer  Coaches  Associa-­ tion  of  America,  NSCAA  Goalkeeping  &HUWLÂżFDWH /HYHO DQG DQ 16&$$ 1D-­ tional  Diploma.  PHOTO/ATHLETIC  COMMUNICATIONS Â

The  6’2  defender  enjoyed  a  stellar  career  with  the  Red  Storm  from  2011-­ ÂżQLVKLQJ KLV FROOHJLDWH FDUHHU ZLWK four  goals,  two  game-­winners,  four  as-­ sists  and  posted  30  clean  sheets.  The  centre  back  is  playing  with  the  Van-­ couver  Whitecaps  FC  wearing  #26.  After  being  selected  13th  overall  in  the  2015  MLS  SuperDraft,  the  Hicksville  native  has  appeared  in  nine  contests  for  the  second  place  Whitecaps  FC.  He  also  helped  lead  St.  John’s  to  three  straight  NCAA  Tournament  appear-­ ances  (2011-­2013)  and  the  2011  Big  East  Tournament  title.  PHOTO/ATHLETIC  COMMUNICATIONS Â

Amy Marron 2010-2013 The  three-­time  All  Big  East  honoree  is  currently  serving  as  a  graduate  assis-­ tant  coach  under  head  coach  Ian  Stone  for  the  Red  Storm  women’s  soccer  team.  Marron  played  professionally  in  Iceland  for  Afturelding  in  the  summer  of  2014,  a  team  competing  in  one  of  the  top  leagues  in  Iceland.  The  Valhal-­ OD 1< QDWLYH ÂżQLVKHG KHU 5HG 6WRUP career  with  70  appearances,  eight  goals,  11  assists  and  27  points.  PHOTO/ATHLETIC  COMMUNICATIONS Â

7KH IRUPHU 6W -RKQÂśV PLGÂżHOGHU LV SOD\-­ ing  professionally  less  than  15  miles  away  from  Belson  Stadium  with  New  York  City  Football  Club  (NYCFC).  Wingert  is  in  his  13th  season  with  his  fourth  MLS  team  (Co-­ lumbus  Crew  2005,  Colorado  Rapids  2006-­ 07,  Real  Salt  Lake  2008-­2014,  NYCFC  2015-­Present).  After  winning  the  2003  Her-­ mann  Trophy  as  the  best  collegiate  player,  the  Babylon,  Long  Island  native  was  draft-­ ed  by  Crew  SC  in  the  second  round  of  the  2004  MLS  SuperDraft.  The  5’11  defender  also  made  an  appearance  for  the  United  States  National  Team  against  Sweden  on  January  24,  2009.  PHOTO/ATHLETIC  COMMUNICATIONS Â

11

3DUNHU H[FHOOLQJ DV D SUR ZLWK 9DQFRXYHU :KLWHFDSV St. John’s alum was model of consitency while playing for SJU STEPHEN ZITOLO Sports Editor

Every soccer fan at St. John’s knows the name Tim Parker. Parker was the model of consistency at St. John’s throughout his decorated four-year career as he played in 79 of 80 matches, starting all but one. After such an illustrious collegiate career, Parker is now on a new path, becoming one of the best young defenders in Major League Soccer (MLS) for the Vancouver Whitecaps. Parker, a Hicksville, N.Y. native, started playing soccer at the age of three. As he grew up, he continually excelled at soccer and lacrosse. During his time playing for Hicksville High School, he was recognized with many accolades, including being a four-year letter winner in both sports. When the time for college came, Parker had to make a decision: lacrosse or soccer? Parker was at a crossroads of his future athletic career. The decision the high school senior was about to make was going to change his life forever. “I got recruited to play lacrosse at a lot of different universities including St. John’s,” Parker said. “But, I thought that the upside for my soccer career was more than my lacrosse career and I thought I could possibly make a living of out my soccer career.” St. John’s head coach Dr. Dave Masur said of recruiting Parker, “Tim was a great center back who played for Hicksville. He’s a great, strong and athletic kid with great physical and technical tools. He comes from a great family and we knew Timmy would be really coachable, really intense and really focused.”

accolades were just as impressive as he was named to the Big East All-Rookie Team his freshman year, the Big East Second Team his sophomore year and the Big East First Team in his junior and senior years. Parker also tallied four goals, two of which were game winners, and four assists. Parker’s impressive collegiate career led him to be selected 13th overall in the first round of the 2015 MLS SuperDraft by Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Jan. 15. “I got to go to the draft with my family and coach Masur was even there,” Parker said. “I was just so happy to hear my name called.” “We knew about Tim going into the Combine and he was arguably the best center back there,” Vancouver head coach Carl Robinson told mlssoccer.com following the draft. “He’s educated, he’s cultured. I think the fair thing to say about him is he’s a typical Whitecaps player. He fits the mold that I am and he also fits the mold that the club is,” Robinson said. “He’s very respectful, he’s honest, he’s hard working and I feel that he is MLSready now. I think he’s got great attributes for a defender. It was the perfect fit for me.” Parker made his MLS debut on May 2 against the Portland Timbers on the road as a late substitution. Ever since his debut, Parker has been getting more and more playing time as he has played nine games, starting eight of them. The biggest difference between the college and pro-game is the speed of play, according to Parker. “The game really jumps and moves a lot faster up here than it moves in college,” Parker said. The nation was made aware of how

good Parker really is on Aug. 5 during CONCACAF Champions League play. Whitecaps FC was facing off against the Seattle Sounders in Vancouver, and, with the game tied 0-0 in the 61st minute, the Whitecaps were set up with a corner kick. Vancouver midfielder Pedro Morales lined up for the corner and hit a low arching ball towards the left side of the 18-yard box. Parker came rushing towards the box and, at the edge of the box, flicked the ball off the back of his heel and somehow found the back of the net for an amazing first goal of Parker’s pro career. “It was one of those things where we all had deigned runs. I was fortunate enough that the ball came to me and I was able to get something on it. It took a good bounce and it went to the back of the net. I was so happy,” Parker said of his goal. “I’ve always wanted to get on the score sheet in any way possible. To have my first goal be at home at BC Place in front of our fans, I was ecstatic.” Parker would score again in CONCACAF play on Aug. 26. versus Impact de Montreal in the Amway Canadian Championship final in the 53rd minute to help Vancouver FC win the 2015 Amway Canadian Championship. Tim Parker’s decision to choose soccer over lacrosse when he was making his college decision was a choice that has shaped the rest of his life. That choice led him him to St. John’s and the tutelage of coach Masur and his staff and eventually ended in him reaching the highest level of the sport when he was drafted by Vancouver FC. “I was really excited [to hear my name called],” the always humble Parker said. “I was just so fortunate.”

PHOTO/ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

Tim Parker played in an impressive 79 of 80 matches while playing for the Red Storm.

“I’ve always wanted to get on the score sheet in anyway possi-­ EOH 7R KDYH P\ ¿UVW JRDO EH DW home at BC Place in front of our fans, I was ecstatic.”

-­Tim Parker-­

During Parker’s St. John’s career, he anchored an elite defensive core to 30 clean sheets, three straight NCAA Tournament appearances from 2011-13 and a Big East Tournament title in 2011. His personal

PHOTO/ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

Tim Parker is known for his tenacious defensive play. Here is Parker attacking the ball while three defenders converge on him.

A changing of the guard for men’s basketball BRANDON MAUK

CARMINE CARCIERI

Digital Sports Manager

Staff Writer

Guard Marcus Lovett, Jr.: A four-star recruit out of Morgan Park High School in Chicago. The lefty was a First Team All-State selection by the Chicago Tribune after

Guard Federico Mussini: The Italian point guard chose St. John’s after playing three seasons professionally for Pallancanestro Reggiana of Serie A in his native Reggio Emilia. In

international play, he led all teams in scoring in the 2014 FIBA Europe Under-18 tournament. He also helped Team World defeat Team USA in the 2015 Nike Hoop Summit.

Center Yankuba Sima: A 6’11” big man from Girona, Spain, Sima was ranked as high as the No. 14 center in the Class of 2015. He dominated on both ends of the floor in international play the last two years. He helped Spain finish fifth in the 2014 Under-18 EuroF Kassoum Yakwe: A local kid from Our Savior New American School in Centereach, N.Y. in Suffolk County, Yakwe was a four-star recruit due to his strong defensive presence

final season of college basketball. The 6’6” wing offers versatility, experience and efficiency (shot 41 percent from the field during his career at Pittsburgh), while also giving Mullin a player that can score in bunches.

per game, and shot 51.2 percent from the field and 41.1 percent from downtown. Williams, who was also recruited by Iowa State, has three years of eligibility remaining and will give Mullin a unique option with his ability to play multiple

Guard/Forward Ron Mvouika: Mvouika, a 6’6” graduate transfer from Missouri State who also played at Sheridan College in Wyoming, joins the Johnnies after averaging 5.5

Forward Tariq Owens: Owens comes to Queens after one up-and-down season with Tennessee. Owens will have to sit out the 2015-16 season due to the NCAA transfer rules but his shot blocking, skills and experience within one of

pean tournament, where he averaged 12.1 rebounds and 2.1 blocks. He helped lead his country’s team to the quarterfinals at the 2015 FIBA Under-19 World Championships, where he averaged 9.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.0 blocks.

in the post. In AAU ball, he was named the 2015 Nike Elite Youth Basketball League Defensive Player of the Year. he averaged 9.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.0 blocks.

F Durand Johnson: After playing only one full season at Pittsburgh due to a severe knee injury suffered in 201314, Johnson transferred into St. John’s with his eyes set on averaging more than 5.4 points per game in his Forward Darien Williams: Williams began his college career at Iowa Western Community College where he earned All-Region XI honors and ICCAC Academic All-Region XI recognition. The 6’8”stretch four averaged 16.1 points, with 6.7 rebounds

averaging over 25 points, eight rebounds and seven assists.

points per game last season. Mvouika is a native of Paris, France who will keep the defense honest with his ability to knock down shots from all over the floor.

the best conferences in the nation will be critical for Mullin come 2016. Owens, who only played 7.6 minutes per game in his freshman season, ranked as the eighth-best prospect coming out of high school in Maryland.

F orward Malik Ellison: Ellison, a small forward from New Jersey, is the son of former Louisville talent and 10-year NBA veteran, Pervis Ellison. The 6’6” Pennsylvania native

was ranked as a three-star prospect on ESPN’s recruiting list and chose St. John’s over Seton Hall, Rutgers, Maryland and Xavier, amongst others.

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