Brigit McDannell ’18Sports Editor
This year was a whirlwind of competitions and transitions for Smith athletics. Director of athletics Lynn Oberbilling is stepping down from her position, concluding a 22-year career. Kristen Hughes, who will transition to the college’s exercise and sports studies department as a full-time lecturer effective July 1st, 2015, will replace her. Lacrosse coach Jennifer Nardi resigned after coaching the team for about four years. Lecturer and coach Jackie Blei replaced Nardi as in-term coach while the team still searches for a full time replacement, which they have narrowed down to two candidates. Coach Aaron Kraft became the college’s strength and conditioning coach and his effort to bulk up Smithies proved vital in their success.
A vast majority of the teams ended with very successful seasons. Smith basketball ended with a 10-15 overall season, wining 7-10 in conference games. Guard and forward Samantha Alakai ’18 was the team’s top scorer, rounding up 306 points in her first season. Smith crew took second place at the 2015 NEWMAC competition. Smith cross-country sent two of their prized athletes Danielle Opatovsky ’15 and Katie Ferrall ’15 to compete in the NEWMAC Academic All Teams. The equestrian team brought home 17 top-four ribbons at their UMass show. They were also awarded at the Athletic Banquet for having the highest GPA team. Smith field hockey ended their fall season in 5-13-0. Teammate Jennifer Estes ’15 was awarded Senior of the Year at the Athletic Banquet. Smith lacrosse ended their spring season with 4-12. Smith Soccer had a great season ending in 6-8-3. Their goalie Shelby Hall ’18 was awarded Rookie of the Year. Softball ended with a 10-18 over all record, wining 5-13 NEWMAC games. Outfielder Allison Snyder ’17 was awarded Sophomore of the Year. Smith squash had a somewhat rocky season, ending 0-16. Smith swimming and diving placed eighth at their NEWMAC competition. Captain of the team Paige Christie ’15 was award Smith Woman of the Year. Smith tennis ended their 2014-2015 season with an overall record of 6-14. Track and field posted 10 Top-3, finishing at their Pioneer Invitational. Smith volleyball concluded their fall season with 6-21.
