Charlie Harger – Tufts University
When and how did you first get into running track?
“I first started track at Borel in eighth grade. I had done cross country in sixth grade but I realized that distance running was just not for me. So after we came back from COVID-19, I was super excited to try out short sprints.”
What was the most challenging part of your recruitment process?
“The most challenging part of my process was dealing with the ‘no’s’ from schools I really wanted to attend. When I visited my dream school, the head coach gave me an offer in person, but when I texted him to accept it a couple days later, he told me that he was mistaken and no longer had space for another recruit. That response was super hard to stomach, but I was grateful to still have other offers from amazing schools like Tufts.”
What are you looking forward to most about competing at the college level?
“I’m super excited about being able to compete at large invitationals and run on tracks I used to only see on TV. I will also be in the same conference as one of my club teammates, so I am looking forward to seeing her at multiple meets a year. Honestly, I’m just excited to continue doing the thing I love the most, and I’m really thankful to have this opportunity.”
Madison Ketcham – Carleton College
Who has been the biggest influence on you in your journey as an athlete?
“I would definitely say my club coach, Coach Sunny. He’s just always been a very positive person in my life, and he keeps me motivated. He’s very supportive, but he’s [also] hard on us when it comes to the game. He’s one of the best coaches I’ve ever had, and [that’s] been really helpful.”
What are you most looking forward to next year?
“I’m looking forward to getting better at soccer … meeting new people … [and] growing as a person. Last year, the [Carleton soccer] team made it to the final eight, so I’m hoping that we can maybe win the National Collegiate Athletic Association tournament. I’m going to a school where I feel like I can really [grow] academically … and make connections.”
How did you first get into soccer?
“My parents put me in soccer when I was young. I went into a lot of different sports, like [many] people, but I just always enjoyed [soccer]. I always had fun. [With] some other sports that I played, I found it really stressful … but then this one was like an outlet for me to just express myself.”
Lorelei Rustay – University of Montana
When and how did you first get into playing soccer?
“I first started playing soccer when I was in second grade. Honestly, I saw all of my friends playing American Youth Soccer Organization and wanted to try it too. My mom also played soccer growing up and in college, so that definitely inspired me to start playing.”
What was the most challenging part of the recruiting process?
“The most challenging part of the recruiting process was staying patient and not giving up. It took a lot of work and commitment to constantly send emails and play in front of sidelines full of coaches. Having a strong support system cheering me on the entire time really helped me stay motivated.”
Who has inspired you the most throughout your athletic career?
“A lot of people have inspired me throughout my career. My mom has always been incredibly supportive but I’ve also been lucky to play alongside so many talented athletes who have pushed me to grow and improve. Being surrounded by those people is a huge reason why I’m able to play college soccer today.”
Lily Anagnoson – Tufts University
When did you realize you wanted to swim in college?
“I started swimming competitively when I was about eight. [Since] my parents had both swum in college, I imagined myself at least doing [the same with] a sport. I didn’t know for sure that it would be swimming, but by the time I was in middle school, I [saw] myself doing it in college.”
Why did you choose Tufts University?
“I really love swimming, [but] I didn’t want to be at a school that was going to weigh me down a ton and not let me enjoy other things. Both of my parents went to college in Boston, so I’ve been [there] a few times and I just loved it, and I knew that I wanted that city environment. I think the vibes of the team and the city were the biggest things that stood out for me with Tufts versus other schools.”
What are you looking forward to most about competing at the college level?
“I’m really excited for Tufts. Especially because it is D3, I have a much higher likelihood of making NCAAs, which I think is an experience that so few people get. It’s really special … and with the times I’m doing right now, I should be able to make [it]. That’s the main thing I’m looking forward to.”
Santi Smirnoff – University of the Pacific
When and how did you first get into playing volleyball?
“I grew up in the volleyball gym. My parents played when they were young and they coach now, so I spent most of my childhood in the gym playing volleyball.”
Why did you choose University of the Pacific?
“I chose University of the Pacific because of many reasons. One is because the coach, Devin, is a great guy who has a lot of support behind him and has been communicative throughout my whole recruitment process. Another reason is because the alumni of the program are some of my club coaches and the reason why the school’s volleyball program is being reinstated. Lastly, just because of how beautiful the school is and [its] great academic facilities.”
Who has inspired you the most throughout your athletic career?
“My family has had a big impact on my athletic career. We have been able to fight through adversity together as well as inspire each other when needed. My club, Bay to Bay, has also played a crucial role since they are the reason why I have been able to compete at a high level since I was young.”
