Wowza, that was the word that described my Saturday..it was a full and beautiful day. It has been a wonderful journey with all of the wonderful people that make these programs and families what they are!
Denison's 1st National Championship for the Women's Basketball Team- captured in Roanoke/Salem, VA. I was not there but I was tuned in. I watched from my car, then the pool stands in Indy...TMobile for the assist- we were able to stream on my phone for the last few minutes!
Denison's 7th National Title for Men's Swim and Dive, defended title from 2025- Woo Hoo! I do love the smell of chlorine, the pool atmosphere is special- Denison's swim family is something-swim alums from the 70s to last year and their families, current families, local alums of all ages, staff, past coaches and the current students- all unite to cheer each race- formal cheers, great catch-ups and a special event on the Friday night. Women are an amazing team as well and captured 4th...and of course were the 1st to hoist that trophy and send a championship banner high!
https://www.newarkadvocate.com/story/life/2026/03/15/why-a-second-place-medal-can-be-more-meaningful-abbeys-road/89082767007/ You may have to pay to read this...sorry...it is lovely and timely and connects to valued conversations I had this weekend.
I hope each swimmer relishes their journey and success. Disappointments happen, it is the "agony" of defeat that makes sports sports...but embrace the joy, journey, wins where they are, feelings and family like Abby Roy's daugther has in the article. Like the swim team did with an unexpected DQ- it didn't stop them. Like the Women's Bball team, lost the NCAC tourny- went on to win the whole NCAA- wowza!
https://www.thereportingproject.org/denison-papers-scranton-in-ncaa-tournament/ Please read this story by Jack Shuler- DU prof, fan, Denisonian- it is wonderful!!
When Joe and I debriefed about this historic win for the WBB team, he said it was emotional. We have followed this program for a long time and our relationship all the strong because of its leaders and coaches: Nan, Sara Lee, Mo and so many more! We love the NCAC connections- Coach Mo is a Keynon alum, so is Gregg Parini! Yes I said Yay Kenyon, I give credit when credit is do and love the true small liberal arts impact!
What a journey... I missed those I've shared it in the past. Change and transition- future post in the works that ties to a late night drive, I listened to two podcasts by Lucy Reynolds '94 (DU) https://www.themurmurationcollective.com/ We do find new ways to connect, seeing Nan, Julie, Julie- courtside made me so happy!
And my own family time- bonus for me to see Clare and Sally while visiting Indy, they joined us for the reception and loved the NCAA Hall of Champions, Sally came to Saturday's game to cheer on a podium placing mile swimmer from DePauw and understands and respects the Denison energy, impact, experience! It was great to talk about it and share it.
Taking time out for lunch with Clare in Broad Ripple was a delight, so lucky to have both girls in one place. I love their season where they both are and value the opportunity to be in person with them yesterday.
Life on Newark-Granville Road is a journey, filled with many beautiful chapters and history is made every day. 3/21/26 was historic, and truly a Wowza day!
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