Author: Hanna Young

By: Brandon Unverferth 

Photography: Hanna Young

Football: Sat. Oct. 1

Hanover College 37 (1-3), Defiance 20 (0-4) Homecoming)

The Defiance College football team hosted the Hanover Panthers (HCAC conference opponent) Saturday afternoon at Justin F. Coressel Stadium for the 2022 Homecoming game. The Yellow Jackets made their way onto the scoreboard first with 2:24 left in the opening quarter, as senior quarterback Jordan Ambrose connected with junior running back Jacob Deisler for a 9-yard touchdown strike. Hanover quickly responded to the Yellow Jackets’ score, as they answered with a touchdown of their own, with a one-yard rush by sophomore Blake Huffman to tie the game at 7 (8:51 left in 2nd quarter). Two minutes later, senior Jordan Ambrose found sophomore Tawann Rome in the end zone for a 31-yard touchdown to regain the Defiance lead 14-7 (6:38 left in 2nd quarter). With less than three minutes left until halftime, Hanover senior quarterback Matthew Weimer tied the game at 14, with a one-yard rushing touchdown (2:55 left in 2nd quarter). The Yellow Jackets suffered a major loss moments before the halftime break (2:30 left in 2nd quarter), as senior quarterback Jordan Ambrose left the game with an unknown injury, which left him on the sidelines for the rest of the contest. The second half was dominated by the Panthers, as Hanover outscored the Yellow Jackets 23-6. Senior quarterback Matthew Weimer for the Panthers was able to connect with junior Eric Roudebush (18 yards) and sophomore Jalen Peck (15 yards) for a pair of passing touchdowns, while sophomore running back Austin Oppel rushed into the end zone for a 13-yard touchdown score. Sophomore kicker Yoann Kinanga added to the Hanover scoring run, with a 22-yard field goal in the third quarter. Senior backup quarterback Seth Pearson was able to find the end zone in the late stages of the game (6:20 left in the 4th quarter), as he found freshman Cooper Sloan for a 9-yard touchdown pass. Hanover had 27 first downs on the game, compared to Defiance’s 19. The Panthers were 3 of 3 on fourth down conversions, while the Yellow Jackets were 1 of 3. Senior quarterback Seth Pearson led the way in passing yards for Defiance with 123, while senior quarterback Matthew Weimer for Hanover had 257. Senior Justin Caballero led the game with 12 tackles, while senior Jaylen Redd captured 10 and senior Thomas Coltrain obtained 9.

Women’s Soccer: Wed. Sept. 28 and Sat. Oct. 1

9/28: Manchester University 7 (2-7), Defiance 0 (3-6)

The Yellow Jackets women’s soccer team traveled to Manchester, Indiana, Wednesday afternoon to kick off Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC) play against the Manchester Spartans. The Spartans came out “rolling” as they scored five goals in the first half alone. The first Manchester score occurred at the 14-minute mark as senior Jayden Murray knocked one through the net. Freshman Chaelinn Hutchins found her way onto the scoreboard next for the Spartans, as she scored at the 30-minute mark. Senior Jayden Murray pushed another ball through the net at the 36-minute mark, to give Manchester a 3-0 lead. Freshman Grace Papazoglou (40-minute mark) and sophomore Elaina Halferty (44-minute mark) also scored for the Spartans in the opening half. Eleven minutes into the second half (56-minute mark), Freshman Grace Papazoglou “chipped in” her second goal of the contest, to give Manchester a 6-0 lead. Another freshman, Ceah Campbell scored the final goal of the contest at the 69-minute mark, which stretched the Spartans’ lead to seven. Manchester led the way in every statistical category including a 25-4 shot advantage, 18-0 shot on goal, and 11-1 on corner kicks.

10/1: Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology 7 (4-2-3), Defiance 0 (3-7)

The Defiance College women’s soccer team hosted the Rose-Hulman Fightin’ Engineers Saturday afternoon at Winsper-Knobel Field as a part of homecoming weekend. Senior Lane Lawrence got the scoring started early for the Fightin’ Engineers, as she knocked one through the net in the 11th minute. Rose-Hulman continued to apply offensive pressure throughout the remainder of the first half, as they tacked on two additional goals by freshman Katie Choi (41-minute mark) and sophomore Alicia Rodriguez (45-minute mark). The Fightin’ Engineers extended their lead to seven by the end of the matchup, as they scored four additional goals in the second half by four different players including Junior Kyra Hicks (51-minute mark), senior Bri Camero-Sulak (75-minute mark), freshman Ella Johnson (83-minute mark), and junior Tracy Orgera (85-minute mark). Junior Clover Worrell recorded the only shot attempt for Defiance in the matchup, while junior goalkeeper Sarah O’Shea allowed seven goals and made 21 saves. A duo of freshman McKenna Walker and Christa Phillips, along with junior Sloane Livingston, played all 90 minutes for the Yellow Jackets. Rose-Hulman had a 44-1 shot advantage and a 10-0 advantage in corner kicks.

Men’s Soccer: Wed. Sept. 28 and Sat. Oct. 1

9/28: (Tie) Defiance 0 (1-5-5), Manchester University 0 (1-5-3)

The Defiance College men’s soccer team hosted the Manchester Spartans (HCAC conference opponent) Wednesday afternoon at Winsper-Knobel Field to begin conference play. In the first half, the Spartans were able to get four shots on goal compared to the Yellow Jackets one, but neither team was able to find the back of the net. Defiance led the way in the corner kicks category after 45 minutes, 3-2. The second half was much of the same, as both the Spartans and Yellow Jackets found themselves close to scoring at times, but neither team was able to introduce themselves to the scoreboard. Senior goalkeeper Orry Killam recorded a crucial save for Defiance in the 86th minute, as he prevented a penalty kick score from Manchester junior Noah Black.

When senior goalkeeper Orry Killam was asked by The Defender about his thoughts following a draw to open up conference play, he expressed, “I felt like we controlled the game for the most part. There were times when we had them pinned in their own half and were looking solid. Unfortunately, we just couldn’t find the back of the net.“

10/1: Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology 5 (6-1-2), Defiance 0 (1-6-5)

The Yellow Jackets men’s soccer team welcomed the Rose-Hulman Fightin’ Engineers to Winsper-Knobel Field Saturday afternoon for a homecoming weekend HCAC conference matchup. The Fightin’ Engineers started the game off with a quick strike, as senior Takezo Kelly scored at the 17-minute mark to give Rose-Hulman an early 1-0 lead. The next two points of the matchup would come early in the second half, as Fightin’ Engineers junior Owen Trudt knocked in a pair of goals at the 51-minute mark and 65-minute mark. Senior AJ Yilmaz added his name to the Rose-Hulman scoring column at the 75-minute mark with a goal from the left hash. Freshman Matthew Schwartz concluded the Fightin’ Engineers’ scoring “barrage” with a goal at the 80-minute mark, to give Rose-Hulman a 5-0 victory. Seniors Armando Campos-Ortiz and Chase Stiner each led Defiance with two shots on goal apiece, while sophomore Zak Klopfenstein recorded one. Junior Riley Hensley played all 90 minutes for the Yellow Jackets.

Volleyball: Sat. Oct. 1

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology 3 (9-7), Defiance 0 (3-11)

The Defiance College volleyball team welcomed the Rose-And Hulman Fightin’ Engineers to the Karl H. Weaner Center Saturday morning to kick off homecoming weekend festivities. The Yellow Jackets and Fightin’ Engineers traded the lead numerous times throughout the opening set, but in the end, Rose-Hulman came out on top 25-16. Defiance controlled the second set for most of the series until Rose-Hulman ended the set with a 10-2 scoring run to take the victory 25-23. The Fightin’ Engineers showed a lot of energy and firepower in the third set of the match, as they took a 12-5 early advantage. Rose-Hulman completed the 3-0 match sweep with a third-set victory 25-9. Freshman Jaelyn Tomoletz led Defiance with 7 kills, while sophomore Kendra Kline led the Yellow Jackets in the assists category with 8.

Men’s Cross Country: Sat. Oct. 1

The Defiance College men’s cross country team traveled to Kenosha, Wisconsin, Saturday afternoon for a nine-team meet at Wisconsin-Parkside University. Wisconsin-Parkside University took the team victory with runners finishing in seven of the first eight spots. Carthage College also out of Kenosha, Wisconsin, finished in the runner-up spot, with Moraine Valley Community College (Palos Hills, Illinois) rounding out the podium. Freshman Alex Burney was the first finisher for the Yellow Jackets, as he secured 31st place with a time of 18:25.03. Freshman Marlan Brown finished in the 58th position, with a time of 22:55.08. Sophomore Gavin Maratea, the third and final runner for Defiance, finished in 66th with a time of 27:47.55.

Women’s Cross Country: Sat. Oct. 1

The Defiance College women’s cross country team traveled to Kenosha, Wisconsin, Saturday afternoon for a nine-team meet at Wisconsin-Parkside University. Wisconsin-Milwaukee University took the team victory with runners finishing in four of the first six spots. Wisconsin-Parkside University finished in the runner-up spot, with Carthage College rounding out the podium. Freshman Shyla Pemberton was the lone runner for the Yellow Jackets, and she finished in the 39th position with a time of 16:09.66.

Men’s Golf: Sat. Oct. 1 and Sun. Oct. 2 (Yellow Jacket Fall Invitational)

The Defiance College men’s golf team welcomed Heidelberg University, Bluffton University, Tiffin University, and Anderson University to Eagle Rocks Golf Course this weekend for the Yellow Jacket Fall Invitational. The Heidelberg Student Princes left Defiance with the team victory, as they obtained a total score of 617. The Bluffton Beavers finished in the runner-up spot with a total score of 633 and the Tiffin Dragons rounded out the podium with a score of 635. Defiance finished in the 6th spot with a total score of 907. Tiffin University freshman Jonas Zajicek took the individual player victory with a score of 149. Sophomore Damien Martinez led Defiance with a 32nd place finish, with a score of 202. Sophomore Payton Switzer finished in 35th with a 214, while junior Will Garlock finished in 36th with a 243. Sophomore Zach Canterbury finished 37th with a 248.

Home

Wednesday, Oct. 5

Men’s Soccer (1-6-5) vs Earlham College (2-6-1)

Location: Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field

(3:30 pm)

Saturday, Oct. 8

Women’s Golf (HCAC Fall Preview)

Location: Moose Landing Golf Course

(9:00 am)

Sunday, Oct. 9

Women’s Golf (HCAC Fall Preview)

Location: Moose Landing Golf Course

(9:00 am)

Away

Monday, Oct. 3

Women’s Golf at Wooster College (Eva Shorb Weiskopf Memorial)

(9:00 am)

Wednesday, Oct. 5

Women’s Soccer (3-7) at Earlham College (2-4-2)

(4:30 pm)

Volleyball (3-11) at Anderson University (8-7)

(7:00 pm)

Friday, Oct. 7

Volleyball (3-11) at Hanover College (10-8)

(7:00 pm)

Saturday, Oct. 8

Women’s Soccer (3-7) at Hanover College (6-2-1)

(1:00 pm)

Football (0-4) at Mount St. Joseph University (4-0)

(1:30 pm)

Volleyball (3-11) at Asbury University (4-10)

(2:00 pm)

Men’s Soccer (1-6-5) at Hanover College (3-4-3)

(3:30 pm)

By: Brandon Unverferth 

Photography: Hanna Young

Men’s Soccer: Tues. Sept. 20, Thurs. Sept. 22, and Sat. Sept. 24

9/20: Case Western Reserve 4 (4-1-2), Defiance 0 (1-4-3)

The Defiance College men’s soccer team hosted the Case Western Reserve Spartans Tuesday afternoon for a non-conference matchup at Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field. The Spartans started off “hot” scoring two goals in the opening 21 minutes. Senior Matt Vatne put up the first point on the scoreboard for Case Western Reserve with a goal at the 15-minute mark, while junior Alex Lippiatt scored at the 21-minute mark. Freshman Shreas Settles knocked one through the net at the end of the 40th minute, to give Case Western Reserve a 3-0 advantage at halftime. The Spartans scored their fourth goal of the contest in the 49th minute, as senior Sean Atwater scored from the left hash. Case Western Reserve held the Yellow Jackets scoreless for the entire 90-minute contest. The Spartans had eight opportunities at corner kicks, while Defiance had one. Defiance senior Joshua Maurer and sophomore Zak Klopfenstein led the Yellow Jackets with one shot attempt on goal.

9/22: Olivet College 3 (1-5-1), Defiance 0 (1-5-3)

The Yellow Jackets men’s soccer team hosted the Olivet Comets Thursday evening at Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field for a cross-state (Ohio-Michigan) matchup. The Comets made their way onto the scoreboard first, with a goal by freshman Braden Abbott near the 18-minute mark. Olivet stretched their lead to 2-0 at the 35-minute mark of the first half, as sophomore Carter Scheel punched one through the net. While the Yellow Jackets trailed 2-0 on the scoreboard at the half, they managed to hold a 5-2 advantage on shots on goal. The Comets extended their lead to 3-0 in the middle of the second half, with a goal by senior Kjeil Dickinson at the 62-minute mark. Olivet kept the Yellow Jackets scoreless throughout the entire 90-minute contest. Junior Erdwin Quintana led the way in the shots on goal category for the Yellow Jackets with three, while seniors Darrien Brooks, Chase Stiner, Joshua Maurer, and Armando Campos-Ortiz each had one. Freshman Jeremy Fuller also recorded a shot on goal for Defiance.

When senior Jeremy Jimenez was asked by The Defender about the teams’ mindset as they begin thinking about opening up conference play next week, he expressed, “Right now the mindset is to continue to stay rooted to our core values which are unity and trust. If we stick together and trust the grind I have high hopes for the future.”

9/24: (Tie) Defiance 0 (1-5-4), Asbury University 0 (2-3-3)

The Defiance College men’s soccer team welcomed the Asbury Eagles to Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field Saturday afternoon for a non-conference matchup. Each team had about a dozen opportunities to score throughout the 90-minute contest, but neither squad was able to find the back of the net. Sophomore Austin Dunlap attempted five shot attempts for the Eagles, with one on goal. Senior goalkeeper Orry Killam posted his first clean sheet of the season for the Yellow Jackets, as he was 8 for 8 in save opportunities. Senior team captain Jeremy Jimenez led Defiance with five shot attempts.

Women’s Soccer: Sat. Sept. 24 and Sun. Sept. 25

9/24: Asbury University 5 (2-6-1), Defiance 0 (2-5)

The Defiance College women’s soccer team hosted the Asbury Eagles Saturday afternoon at Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field. The Eagles “turned on” the scoreboard at the 33-minute mark of the first half, as senior Maryah Jones knocked in a goal from the right hash mark, to give Asbury a 1-0 lead going into halftime. The Eagles’ momentum from the first half, “soared” into the second half as they scored an additional four unanswered goals (49th minute, 60th minute, 63rd minute, and 77th minute) to take a 5-0 victory. Asbury outshot Defiance, 35-2 in the contest. A pair of juniors, Melissa Bixler and Hallie Webb, recorded one shot each for Defiance.

9/25: Defiance 3 (3-5), Mount Mary University 2 (0-7-1)

The Yellow Jackets women’s soccer team welcomed the Mount Mary Blue Angels from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field for a Sunday afternoon matchup. Freshman Paige Drusback got the scoring started for the Yellow Jackets at the 17-minute mark, giving Defiance an early 1-0 lead. The Yellow Jackets and Blue Angels would exchange shots for the remainder of the first half, but neither could find a way to score. Just one minute into the second half (46-minute mark), the Mount Mary Blue Angels found their way onto the scoreboard with a goal from freshman Sam Reyes to tie the game at 1. Junior Sarah O’Shea did not like looking up to the score of 1-1, so she knocked in a pair of goals within a five-minute span (53-minute mark and 58-minute mark) to give Defiance a 3-1 lead. Mount Mary freshman Sam Reyes returned to the score sheet with a goal at the 74-minute mark, to cut the deficit to 3-2. The Blue Angels tried numerous times to tie the game, but in the end, Defiance came out on top 3-2.

Football: Sat. Sept. 24

Alfred State College 42 (2-2), Defiance 33 (0-3)

The Defiance College football team traveled to Alfred, New York, Saturday afternoon to take on the Alfred State Pioneers. The Yellow Jackets quickly made their way onto the scoreboard with a 27-yard touchdown pass from senior Jordan Ambrose to sophomore Tawann Rome, to make it an early 7-0 Defiance lead (12:07 left in the 1st). Alfred State followed suit in their first offensive drive of the game, as they found their way into the end zone with a 20-yard touchdown rush from freshman Rafael Class, to tie the game at 7 (9:13 left in the 1st). Junior Tyshaun Freeman pushed his way into the end zone from one yard out to start the second quarter (14:55 left in 2nd) to give Defiance a 13-7 lead. Sophomore kicker Zeke Sanchez was unable to knock in the extra point. The Pioneers once again responded with a touchdown of their own and an extra point, to take the lead 14-13 (10;45 left in 2nd). Yellow Jackets junior kicker Zeke Sanchez was able to come back from his missed extra point, by knocking in a pair of field goals from 28 yards in the second quarter and 29 yards out in the third quarter, to give Defiance a 19-14 lead (8:48 left in 3rd). Alfred State responded late in the third quarter (2:59 left in 3rd) with a 50-yard passing touchdown strike (freshman Justin Horvath to senior Roman Napoleon) to give the Pioneers a 21-19 lead. The Pioneers went on a 21-14 point scoring run in the fourth quarter, to give Alfred State the victory 42-33. Senior quarterback Jordan Ambrose threw two touchdown passes and added one rushing touchdown, giving him three total for the game. Junior Tyshaun Freeman rushed for 96 yards on 24 carries and one touchdown. Sophomore Tawann Rome (2 touchdowns) and senior Machari Bighams each had a team-high 112 receiving yards for the Yellow Jackets. Defensively, senior Rigo Villa recorded the only sack during the game for Defiance, while a pair of seniors Thomas Coltrain and V’Sean Palmer each had six total tackles.

Volleyball: Thurs. Sept. 22 and Fri. Sept. 23

9/22: Defiance 3 (3-9), Kalamazoo College 2 (3-8)

The Defiance College volleyball team traveled to Kalamazoo, Michigan, Thursday evening to take on the Kalamazoo Hornets. The Yellow Jackets started off strong as they took the opening set victory 25-17. The Hornets came out “swinging” in the second set as they tied the match series at 1-1, with a set victory 25-11. The third set went back and forth, but in the end, Kalamazoo came out on top 25-23, to take a 2-1 match series lead. The fourth set was much of the same, but Defiance came out on top this time, with a 25-22 set victory, to tie the match series at 2. The match would come down to the fifth and final set, where the Yellow Jackets pulled off a tight 15-13 victory. Sophomore Kaylynn Wellman led the Yellow Jackets with 13 kills, while sophomore Jamia Murray had 10.

“We knew going into the game that tonight would be a battle. Our coach always encourages us to play our game, and in the end, that’s what got us the victory. We worked together as a team and utilized our pin hitters. We had great energy and came together as a team to secure the win. Hoping to battle again tomorrow night!” – Junior Hope Yost

9/23: Wilmington 3 (6-11), Defiance 0 (3-10)

The Yellow Jackets volleyball team traveled to Wilmington, Ohio, Friday evening to take on the Wilmington Quakers. The Quakers started off “hot” and never looked back, as they swept the Yellow Jackets 3-0 (25-17, 25-22, and 25-21). Sophomore Jamia Murray led Defiance with 10 kills on the matchup, while sophomore Kaylynn Wellman recorded 9. Junior Hope Yost had a team-high 23 digs for Defiance.

Home

Wednesday, Sept. 28

Men’s Soccer (1-5-4) vs Manchester University (1-5-2)

Location: Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field

(3:00 pm)

Saturday, Oct. 1

Men’s Golf (Yellow Jacket Fall Invitational)

Location: Eagle Rocks Golf Course

(10:00 am)

Volleyball (3-10) vs Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology (7-7)

Location: Karl H. Weaner Center

(11:00 am)

Women’s Soccer (3-5) vs Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology (3-2-2)

Location: Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field

(1:00 pm)

Football (0-3) vs Hanover College (0-3) (Homecoming)

Location: Justin F. Coressel Stadium

(1:30 pm)

Men’s Soccer (1-5-4) vs Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology (4-1-2)

Location: Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field

(3:00 pm)

Sunday, Oct. 2

Men’s Golf (Yellow Jacket Fall Invitational)

Location: Eagle Rocks Golf Course

(9:00 am)

Away

Wednesday, Sept. 28

Women’s Soccer (3-5) at Manchester University (1-7)

(4:30 pm)

Friday, Sept. 30

Women’s Cross Country at Wisconsin-Parkside University

(12:15 pm)

Men’s Cross Country at Wisconsin-Parkside University

(12:55 pm)

Saturday, Oct. 1

Women’s Golf at Wooster College (Eva Shorb Weiskopf Memorial)

(9:00 am)

Sunday, Oct. 1

Women’s Golf at Wooster College (Eva Shorb Weiskopf Memorial)

(9:00 am)

By: Brandon Unverferth 

Photography: Hanna Young

Football: Sat. Sept. 17

Kalamazoo 42 (3-0), Defiance 23 (0-2)

The Defiance College Yellow Jackets football team hosted the Kalamazoo College Hornets Saturday afternoon at Justin F. Coressel Stadium, for the first home game of the season. Yellow Jacket fans filled the stands and the weather forecast was clear, providing an excellent atmosphere for college football. After an opening drive punt for Defiance, Kalamazoo’s quarterback Josh Nichols (junior) fired a quick strike to wide receiver Andrew Widger (senior) for a 34-yard touchdown to give the Hornets a 7-0 early lead. Just prior to the 11-minute mark in the first quarter, Defiance sophomore kicker Zeke Sanchez provided the Yellow Jackets’ first points of the contest by flushing in a 10-yard field goal, to make it a 7-3 game. Following a quick three and out for the Hornets, Defiance senior quarterback Jordan Ambrose connected with senior tight end Cole Recker for a 5-yard touchdown, to give the Yellow Jackets a 10-7 lead with 1:28 left in the first quarter. Midway through the second quarter, the Yellow Jackets found themselves in the red zone at the Kalamazoo two-yard line, but senior quarterback Jordan Ambrose was unable to connect with sophomore Tawann Rome on two consecutive plays, which forced Defiance to hand the ball back to the Kalamazoo offense. Prior to halftime, Kalamazoo attempted a 10-yard field goal to try and tie the score at 10, but the Defiance special teams made a spectacular play to block the kick and maintain the Yellow Jackets’ 10-7 advantage into halftime. The third quarter was dominated by the Hornets as they separated themselves from the Yellow Jackets in the scoring column with a 28-7 point stretch, giving Kalamazoo a 35-17 lead going into the fourth quarter. In the end, the Kalamazoo Hornets defeated the Defiance College Yellow Jackets 42-23.

When senior tight end Cole Recker was asked by The Defender about what he thought the team learned from Saturday’s matchup, he expressed, “I think we improved in a lot of different aspects from Week 1. We showed what we can do on both sides of the ball, but we made some mistakes during important times. We have a lot to clean up but this is a completely different Defiance team this year. I think we are capable of much more than what we put on that field, but it will come.”

Women’s Soccer: Mon. Sept. 12 and Sat. Sept. 17

9/12: Defiance 7 (2-3), Penn State- Beaver 1 (0-2)

The Defiance College women’s soccer team traveled to Monaca, Pennsylvania, to take on the Penn State- Beaver Nittany Lions. The Yellow Jackets quickly made their way onto the scoreboard with a goal by sophomore Jocelyn Peterson at the 6-minute mark to give Defiance a 1-0 lead. Seven minutes later, junior Hallie Webb added her name to the scoring list, giving the Yellow Jackets a 2-0 advantage. Just before the 18-minute mark of the first half, junior Melissa Bixler added her name to the box score, helping Defiance stretch the early lead to 3. Four minutes later (21-minute mark), the Nittany Lions scored what would be their only goal of the contest, to cut the lead to 3-1. Just three minutes and fifty-two seconds into the second half, sophomore Ryan Lay put the Yellow Jackets back up by 3. Exactly nine minutes later, junior Hallie Webb scored her second goal of the contest, to give Defiance a 5-1 lead. At the 65-minute mark, junior Sarah O’ Shea joined the Yellow Jackets’ party, extending the Defiance lead to 6-1. Thirteen minutes later (78-minute mark), junior Bethany Lechenet scored the final goal of the contest for the Yellow Jackets, leading Defiance to a 7-1 victory.

When junior Bethany Lechenet was asked by The Defender about the team’s impressive victory, she expressed,“We went into the game this afternoon with a competitive mindset, wanting to bring home a win after the long weekend. Compared to Sunday’s loss, today was a great day for DCWS.“

9/17: Thiel 4 (2-2), Defiance 0 (2-4)

The Yellow Jackets women’s soccer team welcomed the Thiel College Tomcats to Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field on Saturday afternoon for a non-conference matchup. The Tomcats started the first half strong, with a goal in the ninth minute by junior Katie Aaron. Thiel added to their 1-0 advantage with a goal in the 38th minute by freshman Tessa Allison, to give the Tomcats a 2-0 lead into the halftime break. The Tomcats added two more goals to their total in the second half, with a goal in the 59th minute by sophomore Skylar Garlick and a goal in the 88th minute by junior Bailey Fritz. Senior Brianna Snider and junior Melissa Bixler each recorded one shot on goal for the Yellow Jackets.

Men’s Soccer: Wed. Sept. 14, Thurs. Sept. 15, and Sat. Sept. 17

9/14: Defiance 2 (1-1-3), Adrian College 1 (1-6)

The Yellow Jackets men’s soccer team hosted the Adrian College Bulldogs for a Wednesday afternoon battle at Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field. Sophomore Will Gehlhausen sparked the Yellow Jackets squad early, as he netted a goal at the 5-minute mark to give Defiance a 1-0 lead. Will Gehlhausen attacked the goal once again towards the beginning of the second half (53-minute mark), where he scored his second goal of the contest. The Yellow Jackets kept the Bulldogs off the scoreboard through the entire first half and most of the second half until Juan Tapia scored (via penalty kick) with just three minutes remaining in the match. Will Gehlhausen led Defiance with three shots during the contest and two goals, while senior goalkeeper Orry Killam had five saves.

“To top it off, we got this first win in front of our home crowd. There are not many things greater than that.“

– Sophomore Will Gehlhausen

When sophomore Will Gehlhausen was asked by The Defender about how he thinks the team will carry the momentum of this afternoon’s victory into tomorrow’s matchup and the weekend, he expressed, “Winning our first game of the season feels amazing. We have been working super hard in training, to get this first win off our chest. I think our team is not only going to build off this win, but things are really going to start clicking.“  

9/15: Baldwin Wallace 3 (5-0-1), Defiance 1 (1-2-3)

The Defiance College men’s soccer team traveled to Berea, Ohio, Thursday evening to take on the Baldwin Wallace University Yellow Jackets. Baldwin Wallace started off strong as they scored two goals in the opening 18 minutes, to take a 2-0 lead. Senior Nick Surowicz put one behind the net at the 6-minute mark and freshman Mike Kane scored at the 17-minute mark. Baldwin Wallace extended their lead to 3-0, six minutes before the end of the first half (39-minute mark), with a goal from freshman Max Yakym. Defiance started the second half with some urgency, however, as senior Joshua Maurer lowered the deficit to 3-1, with a goal at the 49-minute mark. Defiance continued to attack the net for the remainder of the second half, but in the end, Baldwin Wallace took the victory 3-1.

9/17: Wooster 6 (2-3-2), Defiance 0 (1-3-3)

The Yellow Jackets men’s soccer team traveled to Wooster, Ohio, Saturday afternoon to take on the Wooster College Fighting Scots. The Yellow Jackets struggled to find opportunities to score as they only managed to attempt three shots in the entire 90-minute contest. Senior Jeremy Jimenez and a duo of sophomores Jack Stanoikovich and Zak Klopfenstein, provided the three shot attempts for Defiance. Sophomore goalkeeper Zach Canterbury saw his first action of the season for the Yellow Jackets. Sophomore Max Wiley scored two of the six goals for Wooster, while senior Langston Hood, junior Kyle Stringer, sophomore Miles Rochester, and another sophomore Louis Sehr each scored one goal a piece. Wooster outshot Defiance 34-3.

Volleyball: Tues. Sept. 13 and Wed. Sept. 14

9/13: Trine 3 (4-4), Defiance 1 (1-9)

The Defiance College volleyball team traveled to Angola, Indiana, Tuesday evening for a showdown with the Trine University White Tigers. Trine started off “hot” taking the first seven points of the opening set. Freshman Abi Teders ended the White Tigers’ run, as she scored her first kill of the contest. Teders kill provided a spark for the Yellow Jackets, as they went on to score four straight points to cut the deficit to 7-4. Trine was not to be stopped in the opening set; however, as they took the victory 25-11. The second set was a thriller, as the Yellow Jackets and White Tigers went back and forth swapping the lead. The second set was definitely a “nail-bitter”, as Defiance at one point was feeling the set victory with a 24-21 lead, until Trine scored two straight kills to tighten the score. Two Yellow Jacket freshmen, Courtney Maxwell and Abi Teders, would battle back working together to seal the second set victory for Defiance 25-23. Defiance held the lead for the majority of the third set, before Trine finished with authority, as they ended on a 9-2 scoring run to take the third set 25-17 and take a 2-1 series lead. The White Tigers’ momentum carried into the fourth set, as they capped off the match with a 25-19 set victory. Freshman Abi Teders led the Yellow Jackets with seven kills, while sophomore Kendra Kline and freshman Jaelyn Tomoletz each contributed five.

9/14: Defiance 3 (2-9), Olivet College 0 (2-5)

The Yellow Jackets volleyball team hosted the Olivet College Comets for a Wednesday night throwdown at the Karl H. Weaner Center. While the Yellow Jackets swept the Comets, Defiance definitely had to earn this one, as all three sets in this matchup came down to the wire. It was a bad set by the Comets, which secured the first set victory for Defiance 25-22. An attack error from Olivet in the second set provided the Yellow Jackets with a 25-20 set victory. The third and final set ended with a three-point scoring run for Defiance to give the Yellow Jackets a 25-20 set victory and a clean sweep of the match. Sophomore Kaylynn Wellman led Defiance with seven kills, while another sophomore Kendra Kline finished with a team-high 12 assists. Junior Hope Yost led the Yellow Jackets in the digs category with 18.

When junior Hope Yost was asked by The Defender about her thoughts on the team’s improvement so far this season, she expressed, “We had a heavy start to the volleyball season. We played seven highly competitive teams within the past seven days. Considering it is still early in our season, we have constantly been working on determining which lineup works best for our team. We have a lot of talent on this team, it is just a matter of putting it all together, to find a successful balance. Although we are still figuring things out, it felt good to finish our heaviest part of the season with a win.“

Home

Tuesday, Sept. 20

Men’s Soccer (1-3-3) vs Case Western Reserve University (3-1-2)

Location: Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field

(4:00 pm)

Thursday, Sept. 22

Men’s Soccer (1-3-3) vs Olivet College (0-5-1)

Location: Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field

(4:00 pm)

Saturday, Sept, 24

Women’s Soccer (2-4) vs Asbury University (0-5-1)

Location: Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field

(1:00 pm)

Men’s Soccer (1-3-3) vs Asbury University (2-2-2)

Location: Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field

(3:00 pm)

Sunday, Sept. 25

Women’s Soccer (2-4) vs Mount Mary University (0-5-1)

Location: Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field

(12:00 pm)

Away

Thursday, Sept. 22

Volleyball (2-9) at Kalamazoo College (2-7)

(6:30 pm)

Friday, Sept. 23

Volleyball (2-9) at Wilmington College (5-10)

(6:30 pm)

Saturday, Sept. 24

Football (0-2) at Alfred State College (1-2)

(12:00 pm)

By: Brandon Unverferth 

Photography: Hanna Young

Volleyball: Wed. Sept. 7, Fri. Sept. 9, and Sat. Sept. 10

9/7: Heidelberg 3 (4-1), Defiance 0 (1-4)

The Yellow Jackets volleyball team welcomed the Heidelberg Student Princes to the Karl H. Weaner Center Wednesday night. The crowd was “amped up“ for a midweek showdown and the Yellow Jackets matched the crowd’s energy. While the final results were not what the Yellow Jackets were hoping for, there are some positive aspects to take from this matchup. Junior Madison Schoenauer and Sophomore Kaylynn Wellman each led Defiance with eight kills. Freshman Jaelyn Tomoletz made her presence known, by adding seven kills and one block to the stat sheet.

9/9: Birmingham-Southern 3 (4-1), Defiance 0 (1-5) (Pam Briggs Classic at Capital University)

The Yellow Jackets volleyball team faced off against Birmingham-Southern College on Friday afternoon to kick off their first match of the Pam Briggs Classic weekend at Capital University. The Birmingham-Southern Panthers started off “hot” as they took a big eight-point lead at the beginning of set one 13-5. The Yellow Jackets kept the deficit within 7 for most of the first set, but the Panthers ended strong taking the set 25-13. The momentum continued to favor the Panthers throughout the second set, as they went on an incredible 14-point run, to end the set 25-6. Even with the 14-0 scoring run for the Panthers to end the second set, the Yellow Jackets continued to fight. The third set was a thriller as both teams went back and forth swapping the lead numerous times, but in the end, the Panthers captured the third set 25-19 to capture the victory. Sophomore Jamia Murray led the Yellow Jackets with five kills.

9/9: Capital 3 (3-4), Defiance 1 (1-6) (Pam Briggs Classic at Capital University)

The Yellow Jackets volleyball team wrapped up Friday’s action at the Pam Briggs Classic at Capital University with a matchup against Capital. The Yellow Jackets used what they learned in the later stages of their matchup against Birmingham-Southern College, to capture the first set over Capital 25-22. Capital came storming back with a sense of vengeance, however, as they took the second set 25-19, third set 27-25, and fourth set 25-19. Capital boasted 48 kills in the contest compared to Defiance’s 35. Junior Madison Schoenauer led the Yellow Jackets with nine kills, while sophomore Kaylynn Wellman and freshman Abi Teders each contributed seven.

9/10: Thiel 3 (3-4), Defiance 2 (1-7) (Pam Briggs Classic at Capital University)

The Yellow Jackets volleyball team kicked off their final day of action at the Pam Briggs Classic at Capital University with a matchup against the Thiel College Tomcats. The Yellow Jackets started off strong as they captured the first five points of the opening set. The Tomcats then had their own mini-scoring run, as they shortened the deficit to 5-4. The Yellow Jackets went back and forth with the Tomcats for the remainder of the set before Defiance captured the set victory 25-21. In the second and third sets, Thiel showed a sense of urgency as they secured set two 25-18 and set three 25-13, to take a 2-1 match lead. The Yellow Jackets had a quick conversation following set three and it paid off, as they went on to force the match to a fifth set by winning set four 25-22. With everything on the line, the Yellow Jackets and the Tomcats would swap the lead numerous times, but in the end, Thiel created just enough separation to take the victory by winning the fifth set 15-12. Sophomore Kaylynn Wellman led the Yellow Jackets with 15 kills, while freshman Abi Teders contributed 12 kills and freshman Jaelyn Tomoletz scored 10.

9/10: Otterbein 3 (8-0), Defiance 0 (1-8) (Pam Briggs Classic at Capital University)

The Yellow Jackets volleyball team wrapped up their Pam Briggs Classic weekend at Capital University with a showdown against the Otterbein University Cardinals. Defiance started off the match showing consistency, as they would keep the score within reach before the Cardinals ended on a 5-2 scoring run to take the opening set 25-18. The Yellow Jackets tried to follow suit with a scoring run leading to victory in the middle of the second set, as they went on a 7-1 scoring run. Immediately following the Defiance scoring run, Otterbein kicked it up a notch and squeaked by for the second-set victory 25-23. The Yellow Jackets led the third set at one point 13-11 before Otterbein once again pushed forth a scoring run that led to a set victory, as they went on a 6-1 scoring run, leading to a 25-20 third set score in favor of the Cardinals.

Men’s Soccer: Wed. Sept. 7, Sat. Sept. 10, and Sun. Sept. 11

9/7: (Tie) Defiance 2 (0-0-2), Wilmington 2 (2-1-1)

The Yellow Jackets men’s soccer team traveled to Wilmington College to take on the Quakers. Freshman Jeremy Fuller got the scoring started for the Yellow Jackets, finding the back of the net in the 24th minute to give Defiance an early lead 1-0. Just six minutes later (30-minute mark) sophomore Elorm Dogbey for Wilmington took advantage of a Defiance penalty and tied the game at 1. At the 36-minute mark, senior Kaden Pirrwitz scored for Defiance which gave the Yellow Jackets a 2-1 advantage. With less than 20 minutes left in the 2nd half, Elorm Dogbey once again found the back of the net for Wilmington to tie the game. Both teams would try to regain the lead with several shot attempts, but in the end, the game would end in a draw 2-2.

“I believe a tie won’t cut it with the mentality of the squad come Saturday. It is never satisfying to end in a draw, but the men played with a chip on their shoulder tonight.“ – Noah Svanberg Men’s Soccer Student Manager

When Student Manager Noah Svanberg was asked by The Defender about the possible mindset change after starting the season with two straight ties, he expressed, “The boys are already thinking about the fine-tuning that needs to be done for Saturday’s trip to Mount Union.”

9/10: Mount Union 3 (2-1-1), Defiance 2 (0-1-2) (Mount Union Invitational at Mount Union University)

The Defiance College men’s soccer team faced off against the Mount Union University Raiders Saturday afternoon to kick off the Mount Union Invitational at Mount Union University. Through nearly 37 minutes of play, both teams remained scoreless, until Mount Union senior Omar Najjar capitalized on a penalty kick opportunity to give the Raiders a 1-0 lead. Yellow Jackets senior Chase Stiner knocked in a goal to open the second half (52nd minute) to tie the match at 1. The Yellow Jackets were able to keep the Raiders scoreless in the second half up until the midpoint of the 75th minute when graduate student Rylan Wikle scored to give Mount Union a 2-1 lead. Three minutes later (78-minute mark) senior Chase Stiner punched in his second goal of the contest to tie things up at 2. With four and a half minutes left in regulation, the Yellow Jackets suffered heartbreak as Mount Union junior Jamon McCort netted the game-winner from 15 yards out to give the Raiders the 3-2 match victory.

9/11: (Tie) Defiance 1 (0-1-3), Waynesburg 1 (2-2-1) (Mount Union Invitational at Mount Union University)

The Defiance College Yellow Jackets men’s soccer team wrapped up the Mount Union Invitational at Mount Union University with a matchup against the Waynesburg University Yellow Jackets. Waynesburg started off with a quick strike at the 8-minute mark, to take the 1-0 lead. The Defiance College Yellow Jackets exchanged shots with Waynesburg for the remainder of the first half, but nobody was able to put one in the net. This changed in the early stages of the second half, as Defiance sophomore Will Gelhausen tied the game at 1, with a goal at the 50-minute mark. Both teams exchanged shots thereafter, but in the end, the match ended in a 1-1 draw. This was the third draw of the season for the Defiance College Yellow Jackets and the first for Waynesburg.

Women’s Soccer: Wed. Sept. 7 and Sun. Sept. 11

9/7: Heidelberg 9 (1-1-1), Defiance 0 (1-2)

The Yellow Jackets women’s soccer team traveled east to Tiffin, Ohio, to take on the Heidelberg University Student Princes at Hoernemann Stadium. Following a six-goal first half for the Student Princes and a scoreless half for the Yellow Jackets, the deficit seemed only to continue to grow in the second half. The Yellow Jackets struggled to put up shots, which in the end, provided Heidelberg with a greater opportunity to extend their lead. Sophomore Lexi Coward recorded the only shot attempt for Defiance in the contest. 

9/11: Bethany 7 (4-0-1), Defiance 1 (1-3)

The Defiance College women’s soccer team traveled to Bethany, West Virginia, to take on the Bethany College Bisons on Sunday afternoon. The Bisons struck early scoring twenty-nine seconds into the match off the foot of freshman Jada Benjamin. Bethany’s offensive continued to stay “hot“ as they scored an additional trio of goals to make it 4-0 Bisons, before the 9-minute mark of the first half. The Yellow Jackets were able to find the back of the net shortly before the first half expired, as junior Sierra Worrell scored shortly after the 40-minute mark. Freshman Morgan Keelan for the Bisons earned her first hat trick of the season scoring three of Bethany’s seven goals in the contest. 

“Being able to recognize the continued efforts and motivation in the eyes of lower classmen is definitely something that I am excited to see as we edge closer to beginning conference play.”

– Senior Brianna Snider, Women’s Soccer

When senior Brianna Snider was asked by The Defender about the team’s mindset following a 7-1 defeat, she expressed, “I thought we played with a lot of aggressiveness and composure throughout the 90 minute contest today, despite the score. We never gave up and really played hard the whole match.”

Men’s Golf: Thurs. Sept. 8 at Lourdes University (Lourdes Invitational)

The Defiance College men’s golf team traveled to Lourdes University in Sylvania, Ohio, on Thursday morning for the Lourdes Invitational. The Yellow Jackets sent a quartet of golfers to participate. Sophomore Damien Martinez led the way for the Yellow Jackets with an 80th place finish (110). while sophomore Zach Canterbury finished 81st (111). sophomore Payton Switzer finished 82nd (120), and junior Will Garlock finished 83rd (165). The Yellow Jackets finished 12th out of 12 teams, with the Madonna University Crusaders taking the victory.

HOME

Wednesday, Sept. 14

Men’s Soccer (0-1-3) vs Adrian College (1-4)

Location: Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field

(4:00 pm)

Volleyball (1-8) vs Olivet College (2-4)

Location: Karl H. Weaner Center

(6:30 pm)

Saturday, Sept. 17

Football (0-1) vs Kalamazoo College (2-0)

Location: Justin F. Coressel Stadium

(1:30 pm)

Women’s Soccer (1-3) vs Thiel College (1-0)

Location: Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field

(3:00 pm)

Away

Monday, Sept. 12

Men’s Golf at Concordia University

(9:00 am)

Women’s Soccer (1-3) at Penn State- Beaver University (0-1)

(3:00 pm)

Tuesday, Sept. 13

Men’s Golf at Concordia University

(9:00 am)

Volleyball (1-8) at Trine University (3-4)

(6:30 pm)

Thursday, Sept. 15

Men’s Soccer (0-1-3) at Baldwin Wallace University (3-0-1)

(6:15 pm)

Friday, Sept. 16

Women’s Cross Country at Michigan State University

(11:00 am)

Men’s Cross Country at Michigan State University

(11:40 am)

Saturday, Sept. 17

Women’s Golf at Manchester University (Spartan Invitational)

(10:00 am)

Men’s Soccer (0-1-3) at Wooster College (0-3-2)

(3:00 pm)

Sunday, Sept. 18

Women’s Golf at Manchester University (Spartan Invitational)

(9:00 am)

By: Brandon Unverferth 

Photography: Hanna Young

Women’s Soccer: Thursday Sept. 1 and Sunday Sept. 4th

9/1: Defiance 9, Andrews 0

The Yellow Jackets women’s soccer team opened their season with a trip to Berrien Springs, Michigan, to take on the Andrews University Cardinals. The Yellow Jackets started off with a “bang“, as they dominated the box score 9-0! Just 40 seconds into the game, senior Brianna Snider knocks in a goal, for her first of three goals in the contest. At the 30-minute mark, junior Melissa Bixler knocks in a goal and, shortly after, splashes in another goal at the 33-minute mark. Junior Sarah O’Shea puts in three goals in the 2nd half alone, at minute marks 62, 85, and 87; meanwhile, another junior Hallie Webb snags a piece of the pie with a goal at the start of the 2nd half (47-minute mark). The Yellow Jackets could not have started the season out any better, as they once again defeated the Andrews Cardinals 9-0.

When senior Brianna Snider was asked by The Defender about the team’s dominating victory to start off the season, she expressed, “Today’s victory was a team win and a great start of the season for our team. I think compared to last season, we are off to a great start as a team rather than individuals, and our chemistry has been amazing throughout the season so far. I am grateful to play my final year with these girls, and I believe that this season you will see a new type of DCWS with a different playing style.”

9/4: Eureka 1, Defiance 0

The Defiance College women’s soccer team hosted the Eureka College Red Devils at Winsper-Knobel Memorial Field for a Sunday afternoon showdown. After a scoreless first half, the Red Devils get on the scoreboard early in the second half, with a goal by freshman Jenna Kinney (51-minute mark). The Yellow Jackets attempted to even the score in the final 39 minutes of the contest, with a barrage of shot attempts, but in the end, the Yellow Jackets fell in the home opener 1-0. Senior Brianna Snider had the best chance for Defiance to even the score, but Eureka’s starting goalkeeper (freshman) Lizzie Brooksher made a spectacular save to preserve the shutout for the Red Devils.

Men’s Soccer at Heidelberg University

The Defiance College men’s soccer team traveled east to Tiffin, Ohio, to take on the Heidelberg Student Princes at Hidden Valley Soccer Complex on Thursday evening. The season opener was a thriller, as senior Jeremy Jimenez scored the lone goal for the Yellow Jackets with just 31 seconds left in the 1st half! Freshman Jeremy Fuller is credited with the assist. Shortly after the 63-minute mark, Heidelberg gets on the scoreboard with a goal by senior Kelly Itito. The Yellow Jackets and Student Princes exchange shots for the remaining 27 minutes, but in the end, the game ends in a 1-1 tie. 

“The boys displayed some exciting things that will hopefully continue to be seen throughout the remainder of the season.” – Noah Svanberg Men’s Soccer Student Manager

When Student Manager Noah Svanberg was asked by The Defender about the mindset following a tie game to open the season, he expressed, “We have a big test at Wilmington next Wednesday. Tying 1-1 vs. Heidelberg was, of course, not the desired outcome, but there were definitely some good takeaways.”

Friday, Sept. 2

Volleyball vs Eastern Mennonite University (Great Lakes Crossover at Cedar Point)

The Yellow Jackets volleyball team kicked off their season with a matchup against Eastern Mennonite University, as a part of the Great Lakes Crossover event at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio. The first game of the evening was a clean sweep for the Yellow Jackets, as they captured three straight sets, 28-26, 25-19, and 25-21. 

Volleyball vs. Geneva College (Great Lakes Crossover at Cedar Point)

In their second match of the day, the Yellow Jackets volleyball team faced off against the Geneva College Golden Tornadoes, in the Great Lakes Crossover event at Cedar Point. This game would come down to the fifth and final set. The Yellow Jackets would drop the first two sets 25-22 and 25-19 before they would capture two straight sets, 25-15 and 26-24. The fifth set was a thriller, as both teams went back and forth, but in the end, the Yellow Jackets lost in heartbreaking fashion, 17-15.

Men’s Cross Country at Eastern Illinois University

The Yellow Jackets men’s cross country team began their season with a trip to Eastern Illinois University for the Walt Crawford Open. Freshman Alex Burney finished with a time of 30:59.8, which was good for a 70th place finish. Indiana State University took home the Walt Crawford Open team victory. Alex was the lone runner for the Yellow Jackets. 

Women’s Cross Country at Eastern Illinois University

The Yellow Jackets women’s cross country team began their season with a trip to Eastern Illinois University for the Walt Crawford Open. Freshman Shyla Pemberton finished with a time of 29:38.7, which was good for a 60th-place finish. Marquette University took home the Walt Crawford Open team victory. Shyla was the lone runner for the Yellow Jackets. 

Saturday, Sept. 3

Football at Mount Union University

The Yellow Jackets football team kicked off their season with a trip to Mount Union University to take on the Raiders at Kehres Stadium. Last season, the Mount Union Raiders finished 13-1, with their only loss of the season occurring in the NCAA DIII Football Championship Semifinals. While expectations for this Yellow Jackets team are focused on obtaining wins, the trip to Mount Union provided many great learning opportunities for this squad, which they hope to use to their benefit in future games this season. The Yellow Jackets would fall to Mount Union 65-0. Senior Thomas Coltrain led the Defiance defense with nine total tackles, including two tackles-for-loss for four yards, while senior Jordan Ambrose led the Yellow Jacket offense with 74 passing yards and 50 rushing yards on 12 carries.

Volleyball vs. Allegheny College (Great Lakes Crossover at Cedar Point)

The Yellow Jackets volleyball team began their final day of action at the Great Lakes Crossover event at Cedar Point, with a matchup against Allegheny College. The early morning start of 10 am, seemed to impact the Yellow Jackets’ performance. The Yellow Jackets suffered a three-set sweep, as the Allegheny Gators took the first three sets 25-22, 25-15, and 25-22. 

Volleyball vs. Saint Mary’s (Ind.) College (Great Lakes Crossover at Cedar Point)

The Yellow Jackets volleyball team wrapped up their weekend as a part of the Great Lakes Crossover event at Cedar Point, with a matchup against the Saint Mary’s Belles. The Yellow Jackets lost a hard-fought contest 3-2. 

Wednesday, Sept. 7

Volleyball (1-3) vs. Heidelberg University (2-1)

Location: Karl H. Weaner Center 

(7 pm)

Men’s Soccer (0-0-1) at Wilmington College (1-1) 

(7 pm)

Women’s Soccer (1-1) at Heidelberg University (0-1-1) 

(7 pm)

Thursday, Sept. 8

Men’s Golf at Lourdes University 

(9 am) 

Friday, Sept. 9

Women’s Golf at Olivet College for the Kyle Campbell Invitational

(2 pm)

Volleyball (1-3) vs. Birmingham-Southern College (3-0) as a part of the Pam Briggs Classic at Capital University

(4 pm)

Volleyball (1-3) vs. Capital University (1-3) as a part of the Pam Briggs Classic at Capital University

(6 pm)  

Saturday, Sept. 10

Women’s Golf at Olivet College for the Kyle Campbell Invitational

(8:30 am)

Volleyball (1-3) vs. Thiel College (2-2) as a part of the Pam Briggs Classic at Capital University

(10 am)

Men’s Soccer (0-0-1) vs. Mount Union University (1-1) as a part of the Mount Union Invitational at Mount Union University 

(1 pm)

Volleyball (1-3) vs. Otterbein University (4-0) as a part of the Pam Briggs Classic at Capital University

(2 pm)

Sunday, Sept. 11

Women’s Soccer (1-1) at Bethany College (1-0-1) 

(3 pm)

Men’s Soccer (0-0-1) vs. TBD as a part of the Mount Union Invitational at Mount Union University

(Time: TBD)

Written by Emily Vargo and April Johnson

Usually, when I write an article, it’s about a person or an event, but this one is a little different. This is where I say my hello.

I am delighted to announce that I will be the new editor for The Defender! I am so thankful to have this opportunity and happy to become more part of something that I enjoy doing.

As editor, I plan to publish weekly articles and cover significant events on and off campus. I want to welcome all writers of any kind to publish articles for everyone to enjoy.

I want to introduce myself to those who may not know me. My name is Emily Vargo, and I am an Early Childhood major with a double major in intervention specialist. I am a proud member of the Cheerleading team, V.P. of service for APO. McMaster scholar, Student Senat treasure, and a member of service leaders.

I want to thank April for everything that she has done as editor. She has helped build our school paper, and the Defender wouldn’t be where it is today without her. I am so thankful to have had the privilege of working with April, and I am so excited to work on this next chapter.

Thank you, Emily, for the kind words. As I finish writing and publishing my last article, I am reminded of what a wonderful opportunity being the editor has been. I’ve learned so much and have had incredible experiences like going to the 2019 Democratic Presidential Debates—but the best experience is being a part of the DC community. As a non-traditional student who is also part-time, I wasn’t sure I could do much. However, Defiance was so welcoming and encouraging that I accomplished so much more than I ever thought I could.

I want to thank everyone who has written for the Defender over the past 3 years, who has taken the time to read it, Dr. Engel, Professor Green, Barb Sedlock, Amber Baldwin, and especially Emily, who I know will make an incredible editor and take the Defender to the next level. I look forward for what’s to come.

Written by: Amber Baldwin

If you have ever been to the Pilgrim Library, there is probably a good chance you have seen the lead librarian and coordinator of metadata and archives, Barb Sedlock.

Sedlock has been working for Defiance College for almost 40 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Hiram College and a master’s degree in library science from the University of Kentucky. Barb states that, for the most part, she has always wanted to be a librarian.

“I saw how my older sister was struggling after high school to figure out what she wanted to do in life, and I didn’t want to struggle like that. Since I loved to read, I started working in the high school library and decided that was the job I wanted for life. But being a librarian doesn’t mean you sit around and read all day; I spend a lot of time working on the computer.”

What drew Barb to Defiance College was the small school atmosphere. Sedlock said, “When I was about to get my library degree, I looked at the want ads for small college jobs (no online job resources in those days) and found an ad for DC, which I’d never heard of even though I was from Ohio. I figured it would be close enough to my family in Warren to go home and visit them on weekends.”

Outside of work, Barb Sedlock writes articles and book reviews for the Historical Novel Society. Barb enjoys most historical things and loves going to museums. She also likes to go antiquing and has a small Victorian and Edwardian tile collection.

Another interest of Sedlock is the arts. She is a big fan of live theater performances and plays bassoon for different community music groups.

“I’ve enjoyed playing bassoon in the community band for about 35 years, playing for some of the Fort Defiance Players’ pit orchestras for their musicals, and DC’s annual “Messiah” performance since 1996.”

Barb Sedlock is quite an interesting person, even if she will try to claim she is not.

Written By: Elizabeth Patrick

I am excited and proud to introduce you to Samantha Sayler. Samantha is currently a senior at Defiance College and is from right here in Defiance, Ohio. Here at Defiance College, she is a double major in psychology and social work and will be graduating this May.

While Samantha has been here, she has been involved in various clubs and programs. One program that Samantha is involved in is the McMaster’s program. As a part of the McMaster’s program, she is working with the Panama mission and will be wrapping up her educational journey as a scholar this year. Samantha’s project is focused on positive study skills and study habits to eventually positively affect the dropout rate.

Samantha is also involved in the social work program, honors program, the progeny poetry magazine, and the college choir. Here at Defiance College Samantha is very involved in a variety of different clubs and organizations.

If Samantha had to give advice to underclassmen, she would say that you should step out of your comfort zone and try something new. She believes that you have nothing to lose but everything to gain.

Samantha also believes that a student should get involved, get to know new people, and make connections. In conclusion, Samantha’s advice to underclassmen is to get involved and try new things as you have nothing to lose but everything to gain.

Samantha chose Defiance College because of The McMaster’s school. Samantha believes that is one program that she has not had any exposure to from any other college or university.

Defiance College is also unique for Samantha because of the smaller atmosphere and the stronger connections a student can make with other students and professors.

Some of Samantha’s favorite memories involve the choir department. She has had so much fun growing and learning over the last four years. The choir trips they took are priceless memories. Even though Samantha is not a music minor, she has learned a lot about music and made many friends.

Samantha would not trade any of those for anything as she has had a great four years. Sadly, this chapter is ending, but once one ends, another one begins!

Written by: Elizabeth Patrick

Ramadan is celebrated from Friday, April 1, 2022, to Sunday, Monday 1, 2022. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which Muslims observe as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.

During this time, Muslims will renew their focus on spiritual life and its practical application to daily life. During this month, Muslims also believe that the Quran began to be revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Ramadan is a time for Muslims to get together and reflect and pray.

According to Fun Kids Top 10 Facts About Ramadan, “During Ramadan, Muslims fast, which means that Muslims don’t eat or drink anything during daylight hours.”.

During Ramadan, Muslims are also expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Islam by refraining from things like violence, anger, envy, greed, and trying to get along with everyone harder.

There are various rules that Muslims will follow during the month of Ramadan. One of the rules is that Muslims cannot eat or drink anything during daylight hours; even water should not be drunk during this time. However, there are exceptions. Those who are still children, women who are menstruating, pregnant, breastfeeding, and those with medical conditions.

Like any other celebration, there are several different traditions that Muslims will follow during Ramadan. One tradition is that Muslims will gather in their homes or mosques after the sunset prayer to break their fast with a meal called “iftar.” This meal is often shared with friends and extended family. The end of the Ramadan fast is celebrated as “Eid al-Fitr,” the “Feast of Fast-Breaking,” which is one of the two major religious holidays of the Muslim calendar.

In some communities, Eid-al-Fitr is a serious celebration where children wear new clothes, women dress in white, special pastries are baked, gifts are exchanged, the graves of relatives are visited, people gather for family meals and pray in mosques. In conclusion, there are a plethora of different rules and traditions that Muslims will follow during the celebration of Ramadan. 

Muslims will fast during this time to encourage an affinity with those who have little to no food worldwide. To wrap it up, there are various rules that Muslims will follow during Ramadan. 

Written by: Hailey Krawczyk

The Defiance College Yellow Jackets had a jam-packed weekend filled with numerous athletic contests.

The Yellow Jacket Track team also competed this weekend at the Pepsi UC Invite & Distance Carnival hosted by the University of the Cumberlands. The Jackets traveled to Williamsburg for the two-day meet.

The Men’s team finished 11th out of 17 teams, while the Women’s team finished 16th. The University of the Cumberlands won the invite full out.

Top performers for the Yellow Jackets include Sophomore Tawon Cannon winning the men’s 400-meter hurdles with a time of 56.16 seconds, Senior Lisa Markau placing 6th in the women’s 200 meters with a time of 27.71 seconds, and Freshman Traci Cross placing fourth in the women’s100 meters with a time of 12.61 seconds.

The Yellow Jackets traveled to Delaware, OH, to compete in the All-Ohio Championships on April 16th.

Yellow Jacket Softball faced off against Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC) opponent, Rose-Hulman (Terre Haute, IN), bat the home at the Sal Hench Field on Sunday.

Yellow Jacket Softball swept Rose-Hulman in a 2-game series starting off the weekend. The Jackets took Game 1 with a final score of 3-0 and Game. 2 with a final score of 7-1.

In game 1, Senior Pitcher Taylor Biggs started on the mound for the Jackets, which helped to give them an edge. Senior Kalin Hubble also made history in Game 1, crossing home plate to become the all-time career runs leader for the DC softball program. Hubble has recovered 109 runs thus far.

Other key players from the series include Sophomore Brooke Silcox, named HCAC Hitter of the Week. Silcox recorded 7 Hits, 4 Doubles, 5 Runs, and 5 RBIs and recorded a batting average of .581. Silcox is batting .506 on the season with a total of 15 doubles, which are tied in program history for a single season. The Yellow Jacket Softball team played Saturday, April. 16th at the Sal Hench Field against the Jackets host Transylvania (Transylvania, KY) at 1:00 pm.

Yellow Jacket Baseball also took the field on Sunday at Defiance High School, hosting the Franklin Grizzlies. The Yellow Jackets fell to the Grizzlies in both games with a final score of 10-2 in Game 1 and a final score of 7-4 in Game 2.

Some key plays from Game 1 include Senior Alex Morr recording a stolen base, Senior Lucas Thomeier and Sophomore Trent Murdock recording 2 hits, and Senior Cohen Nies striking out seven over 5.1 innings. Some key plays from Game 2 include Senior Nate Kaffenbarger and Sophomore Billy McNamara, both recording two hits, and Freshman Sam Thombs started on the mound for the Yellow Jackets, throwing for five innings. Thombs allowed two runs and three hits. The Yellow Jackets played Ohio Wesleyan (Delaware, OH) on April 13.