This week we feature two freshman, Sally Ryan and Chase Delano. Read more to learn about why they choose Middlebury and what they've experienced here so far.
Panther: What made you choose Middlebury?Sally: At first I chose Midd because of its strong academic and athletic reputation but after visiting and meeting more people I realized that there is much to Middlebury than just that. The outgoing, friendly people here and the common eagerness to get outside and be active is what really appealed to me. Everyone here has the desire to succeed in anything they do and I found that strength of mind to be very contagious.
Chase: I always wanted to be a Midd kid, at least ever since I found out Caroline Kirkendoll would be here. But besides Caroline, I really liked the atmosphere when I visited--from the people, to the academics and athletics--it kind of just felt right. I also liked the idea of being able to play two sports in college while still having time to branch out and try other things besides sports, even though I haven't done that yet...although I am planning on taking Ceramics next year. I'll let you know how that works out.
Panther: What is one thing that you love about Midd that you were hoping for & expecting?Sally: I came to Midd expecting to be part of a team that is hard working and determined and that is exactly what I found. I love how every girl on this team is motivated and goal oriented. Not only do my teammates give everything they have in practice and in games but we all are able to have fun while doing it.
Chase: There are many things I love about Midd that I was hoping for, but the one thing in particular that stands out in my mind is the fact the I'm able to ride my Razor Scooter around campus and I never feel like people are judging.
Panther: What is something you were not expecting?Sally: I was not expecting to get to know all of my teammates’ families so well. It is so much fun meeting everyone’s parents and siblings. I didn’t realize the amount of support given from the families by providing us with water and Gatorades for every game or by hosting us for a lunch or dinner at their house. It is so nice to have so many families who are always there for us. We are so lucky and so thankful.
Chase: I was not expecting to like Country music, but I guess it's grown on me a little bit because it's on sometimes in the locker room.
Panther: What has your lacrosse experience been like so far?Sally: My lacrosse experience has been a blast so far! I have enjoyed everything that is involved with this year’s season…maybe not the hill sprints but everything else! I loved the competition practice in which half the team dressed up in 80’s costumes and the other half dressed like thugs. I love getting pumped up in the locker room before games and dancing around with everyone. Most importantly, I love walking on to Kohn Field everyday, looking at the mountains in the background and appreciating what I have now because I know that the next few years are going to fly by.
Chase: Despite some frustrating injuries, I've had a great experience being on the lacrosse team so far. I've had some very memorable moments both on and off the field with the team, and for the most part they've all been great. I love that tradition is such an important part of the women's lax program, and many of those traditions have made my experience that much better so far.
Panther: What is the best thing about being part of the Midd lax program?Sally: The best thing about being part of the lacrosse program is the friendships that you make. The relationships that I have developed with the girls on my team are so fun and I know they are going to be long lasting. I have extraordinary coaches and teammates who have made a great impact on my life. The memories created here will stay with me forever.
Chase: I would have to say the people are the best part about being part of the lax program here. Since the very first day, everyone has been so friendly and easy to get along with. I must admit, coming into the whole scene I was a little intimidated by the high standards of the program and horror stories I had heard about fitness with Missy Foote, and although some of those stories may be true, there's nothing more rewarding than pushing yourself to the very max and having great friends to go through it with you. Oh, and also, we have a bomb locker room--it's nice and big with a great sound system and areas to lounge around.
Panther: What are you most excited about in terms of being a Midd laxer?Sally: I am most excited about the close, nail biting games that I will get to play in. It is the big games which are tough that are the best because that is when you can see everyone “reaching in their back pocket” and finding a little more heart and energy to bring to the field. When those games end with a victory, the feeling after giving EVERYTHING you had is unimaginable. I am really excited to be part of those challenging experiences with the team.
Chase: Being a Midd laxer means that you'll always have strong roots to come back to. Judging by all the alumnae that came back the other weekend to see their old teammates and to support their new ones, I can tell that I'm in the process of making some great friends that will last a very long time.
Panther: What is something you want the alumnae to know?Sally: I want the alumni to know that they are awesome. I am so excited to carry on all of their traditions and am proud to be part of what they have created. Kate Perry is the best alumni sister and sent me a real fish in the mail! Now that’s pretty cool. Although it had a short life, it was very much appreciated. Also, everyone who was here for alumni weekend was so funny and so much fun to get to know! Thanks to all the alumni for all the support and for creating such a remarkable Middlebury lacrosse tradition.
Chase: My favorite food is artichoke dipped in some buttah and my secret passion is dancing to soul music. I also cannot cook/bake and I received 0 votes in the freshmen chocolate chip cookie bake-off.