Sports have a unique ability to bring people together, to unite them around a common cause or passion. Throughout history, sports have played a significant role in helping Americans cope with crises and difficult circumstances. Whether it’s after a natural disaster, a national tragedy, or a pandemic, sports have a way of uniting people and giving them hope.
After the 9/11 attacks, sports played a crucial role in helping Americans heal and come together. Major League Baseball postponed all games for a week following the attacks, but when play resumed, it was with a renewed sense of purpose. Fans were united in their grief and determination to overcome the tragedy, and players wore special American flag patches on their uniforms to show their solidarity. The World Series that year between the New York Yankees and the Arizona Diamondbacks was particularly emotional, with fans in New York using the games as a way to come together and show their support for their city.
Similarly, after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans in 2005, sports provided a much-needed distraction and source of hope for the city. The New Orleans Saints, who had been displaced by the storm, played their first game back in the Superdome on September 25, 2006, during Monday Night Football, and the entire nation watched as the city came together to support their team. The game was an emotional rollercoaster, with the Saints winning on a dramatic last-second play, and fans crying tears of joy and relief. The team went on to win its first-ever Super Bowl in 2010, providing the city with a much-needed boost of morale and pride.
More recently, sports have played a critical role in helping Americans cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. When the NBA suspended its season in March 2020, it was a wake-up call for many Americans, signaling the severity of the situation. But when the league returned in a bubble format in July, it provided a sense of normalcy and hope for fans. The NFL and MLB also adjusted their schedules to accommodate the pandemic, and although games were played without fans in attendance, they provided a much-needed distraction for millions of Americans stuck at home.
Beyond national tragedies and disasters, sports have also played a critical role in bringing Americans together around shared passions and interests. The Olympics, for example, is a time when Americans set aside their differences and come together to cheer on their country. The 1980 “Miracle on Ice” hockey game, in which a team of amateur American players defeated the heavily favored Soviet team, is still remembered as a moment when sports brought the country together in a way that transcended politics and ideology.
Similarly, the annual NCAA basketball tournament, also known as March Madness, provides a shared experience for millions of Americans across the country. Fans fill out brackets and cheer for their favorite teams, creating a sense of community and shared experience that spans across geographic and social divides. Even in a year when the tournament was canceled due to the pandemic, fans found ways to come together virtually, through online simulations and video chats.
Of course, sports are not a panacea for all of the country’s problems, as they can also be a source of division and controversy. Political protests by athletes, for example, have sparked heated debates about the role of sports in society, and issues like racism and inequality have brought attention to the ways in which sports can both reflect and reinforce societal problems.
But even in the face of controversy and division, sports have a unique ability to bring people together, to unite them around a common cause or passion. Whether it’s after a national tragedy, a natural disaster, or during a pandemic, sports provide a much-needed distraction and source of hope for Americans. They remind us that we are all part of something larger than ourselves and that we can overcome even the most difficult circumstances when we work together.
The power of sports to unite Americans can also be seen in the way they can bring together people from different backgrounds and communities. For example, youth sports programs in inner cities can provide opportunities for young people to connect with each other and with positive adult role models, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Sports can also provide a common ground for immigrants and refugees to connect with their new communities and for people with disabilities to find acceptance and support.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the role that sports can play in promoting social justice and addressing systemic inequalities. Athletes have used their platforms to draw attention to issues like police brutality, racial profiling, and unequal access to education and healthcare. Sports organizations have also taken steps to address these issues through initiatives like diversity and inclusion training for coaches and players and investments in underserved communities.
Ultimately, sports are much more than just games or competitions. They are a reflection of our shared humanity and a powerful force for bringing people together. Whether we are cheering for our favorite team, supporting our community’s youth sports program, or standing up for social justice, we are all part of a larger sports community that has the power to unite us and inspire us to be our best selves.
In conclusion, sports have played a critical role in uniting Americans in times of crisis and difficulty. From national tragedies like 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, sports have provided a much-needed distraction and source of hope for millions of Americans. They have also brought together people from different backgrounds and communities and provided a platform for addressing social justice issues. As we continue to face new challenges and uncertainties in the future, we can look to sports as a source of inspiration and strength, reminding us that we are all part of something larger than ourselves.
I would like to introduce you to Tracy Armey. She is the senior career coach. She will have been at Defiance College for 21 years in July. She came to Defiance College because where she was currently working closed. She then needed a job and saw they were hiring at the college so she applied and got the position. Her favorite part about working at Defiance College is the students and the relationships she can build with them. While growing up, Tracy lived in Liberty Center, Ohio and she is currently still living there. Tracy attended Northwest State Community College for her Bachelor’s in Medical Secretarial. Then she attended Defiance College for her Bachelor of Arts in Student Affairs and Leadership Studies.
To get to know Tracy more personally, I asked her some personal questions. Her favorite TV show to watch is All American. She has a mini goldendoodle named Murphy. Tracy is more of a movie person and her favorite movie is Hoosiers. She thinks that the three best words to describe herself are passionate, caring, and friendly.
Tracy Armey can be located in the Library in room 214.
The Defiance College Softball team traveled to Adrain, Michigan on Monday night for a two game matchup against Adrian College. The first two innings were silent for both teams, however, Adrian scored first in the third inning. The bulldogs took a two run lead after Paige Stein drove the ball into right field, earning a double, and scoring Meghan Lupu (1-0). Following an error by Defiance Paige Stein scored (2-0). The Yellow Jackets rallied to score their single run in the seventh inning. Senior Josilyn Guzman singled into left field, scoring Savanah Bergman (2-1). Defiance College recorded 9 hits in the contest: Ali Mowen and Destiny Coil each had one, Brooke Silcox and Josilyn Guzman each had two, and Natalee Cooper led the Yellow Jackets with three. Savannah McCoy went the full six innings on the mound for Defiance, throwing six innings and facing 25 batters. She threw 91 pitches, 54 of those being strikes. The Yellow Jackets had one error in the contest.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
9
1
Adrian (Mich.)
0
0
2
0
0
0
X
2
6
1
Adrian College 4 vs Defiance College 3 (9 innings)
The Defiance College softball team also came up a little short in their extra inning thriller against the Adrian College Bulldogs. The game remained scoreless until the eighth inning when Defiance scored off of a freshman Ali Mowen sacrifice fly that scored senior Marissa Roberts (0-1). The Bulldogs retaliated in the bottom of the inning to send the game into a ninth inning. Adrian scored off of a Meghan Lupu single that scored Genna Marasco (1-1). The ninth inning led to more runs from Defiance. Sophomore Amber Krause blasted the ball over the fence to plate herself and fellow sophomore Destiny Coil (1-3). However, the Bulldogs rallied in the bottom of the inning to score as well. Hailey DeChalk tripled to score Paige Stein (2-3), this was followed by a Peyton Russell single to score Maggie LeVeille (3-3). The Bulldogs scored the winning run off of a Karson Bagelmann single that plated Ava Ferrarelli (4-3). The Yellow Jackets had 8 hits: Natalee Cooper and Amber Krause each had one, Anika Craft, Brooke Silcox, and Josilyn Guzman each had two. Multiple Yellow Jackets recorded extra base hits: Brooke Silcox had a double, Josilyn Guzman added a triple, and Amber Krause threw in a homerun. Laney Grimwood and Josilyn Guzman also had one stolen base apiece. Anika Craft threw all 8.2 innings for the Yellow Jackets. She threw 167 pitches, 98 of those being in the zone, facing 37 batters. Defiance committed one error in the contest.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
3
8
1
Adrian (Mich.)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
3
4
5
2
Bluffton University 5 vs Defiance College 2
Freshman Joseph O’Neil throws a pitch to a Bluffton batter on Monday night.
Defiance College Baseball wrapped up their three game series with Bluffton University at home on Monday night. After a scoreless first inning the Beavers put numbers on the board in the second inning. Ezra Deitering singled to score Nick Diana which was followed by Austin Francis’ double that scored Diana (2-0). The Yellow Jackets plated their first run in the bottom of the fourth inning after an error by Bluffton to score Jacob Hild (2-1). Defiance tied the game up in the bottom of the fifth inning when junior Mitchell Roever bunted to move senior Alex Morr to third, a throwing error allowed Morr to score (2-2). However, the Beavers regained their lead in the sixth inning Austin Francis was walked with bases loaded to force Nick Diana to score, then a single by Grant Hovest scored Ezra Deitering (4-2). Bluffton sealed the deal in the top of the ninth inning when Jack Towell singled to score Grant Hovest (5-2). Mitchell Roever, Austin Horning, Jacob Hild, Josh Vischer, and Alex Morr each recorded a hit to bring the total hits for Defiance to five. Ethan Jenkins added a stolen base and Jacob Hild added a double. Three pitchers saw action for the Yellow Jackets on Monday night. Joseph O’Neil spent 5.2 innings on the mound throwing 97 pitches, 52 of those were strikes, he faced 26 batters. The next pitcher to see action was Blake Bowman who tossed 56 pitches, 35 of those being strikes in his 2.2 inning outing. He faced 13 batters. Lastly, was Johnny Hammerstein who rounded out the game throwing 0.2 innings. He faced 2 batters, throwing 11 pitches, 6 of those being in the zone. Defiance Recorded one error.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Bluffton
0
2
0
0
0
2
0
0
1
5
11
3
Defiance
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
2
5
1
Manchester University 2 vs Defiance College 0
Junior Johnny Hammerstein hurls a pitch against a Manchester batter on Friday night.
In the first game of a three game series with Manchester University the Yellow Jackets came up short. The game remained scoreless until the fifth inning when Manchester struck. Mitchell Baker hit a sacrifice ground ball to score Austin Knowles (1-0). Manchester scored again in the seventh inning after an Aidan Stevans single that scored Austin Knowles (2-0). Mitchell Roever and Trent Murdock were the only two Yellow Jackets to record hits with two and one respectively. Two Yellow Jacket pitchers saw action on Friday. The first being senior Cohen Nies pitching 7 innings facing 29 batters and throwing 100 pitches with 66 of those being strikes. The second pitcher to see action was junior Johnny Hammerstein who pitched 2 innings, facing 7 batters. He threw 22 pitches with 15 being strikes.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Manchester (Ind.)
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
2
5
0
Defiance
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
1
Manchester University 10 vs Defiance College 5
Sophomore Gunner Gregg attempts to throw out a Manchester runner on Friday.
The Yellow Jacket struck first in their second game on Friday against Manchester University. In the second inning, Defiance College opened up the scoring when senior Dylan King reached on a fielder’s choice to score senior Josh Vischer (0-1). In the top of the fourth inning Manchester’s Joel Kennedy homered, plating himself and Rocco Hanes (2-1). In the fifth inning the Spartans moved into the driver’s seat, plating three runs to lengthen the lead. Mitchell Baker singled to drive in a run off of an error to score Jared Holley (3-1). Then Aidan Stevans singled to score Cole Filson, followed by a Zach White sacrifice fly to score Mitchell Baker (5-1). In the fifth inning Defiance scored again when junior Trent Murdock singled to score junior Mitchell Roever (5-2). The Spartans answered that one run by putting up their own in the bottom of the fifth. Harrison Pittsford homered to score himself and Joel Kennedy (7-2). Trent Murdock again instigated a run in the seventh inning when he tripled to score sophomore Gunner Gregg (7-3). In the top of the ninth Manchester extended their lead farther. Rocco Hanes doubled to score Aidan Stevans (8-3). Then Joel Kennedy hit a sacrifice fly to score Zach White and advance Rocco Hanes to third. Hanes then scored on a wild pitch (10-3). The Yellow Jackets attempted to rally in the bottom of the inning. Trent Murdock doubled to score Gunner Gregg and Mitchell Roever (10-5). The Yellow Jackets recorded 12 hits in the contest: Josh Vischer and Ethan Jenkins each recording one, Gunner Gregg had two, Mitchell Roever added three, and Trent Murdock led the way with four. Trent Murdock recorded a double and a triple as well as Josh Vischer recorded a double. Four Defiance Pitchers saw action in the second game on Friday. The starting pitcher was freshman Joseph O’Neil who pitched 5 innings and faced 22 batters, he threw 71 pitches with 50 of those being strikes. Junior Johnny Hammerstein tossed one inning in this contest, and faced 5 batters. He threw 19 pitches with 14 of those being strikes. The third pitcher to see action was sophomore Jeffrey Varga who threw 18 pitches with 11 of those being strikes in his 2 innings pitched. He faced 8 batters. The Last Yellow Jacket pitcher to see action was sophomore Tyler Dehan who pitched 1 inning, facing 6 batters and throwing 21 pitches with 10 of those being strikes.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Manchester (Ind.)
0
0
0
2
3
2
0
0
3
10
10
0
Defiance
0
1
0
0
1
0
1
0
2
5
12
1
Manchester University 2 vs Defiance College 1 (10 innings)
Senior Hunter Bostater prepares to hit the ball.
The Defiance College Baseball team finished up their three game series with Manchester University on Saturday. The Yellow Jackets came up on the short end of an extra inning battle after tying the game with Manchester up in the fifth inning. Manchester started the scoring out in the first inning Joel Kennedy hit a sacrifice fly ball to score Aidan Stevans (1-0). The game remained scoreless until the Yellow Jackets struck in the fifth inning when senior Alex Morr singled into right field which scored sophomore Tyler Dehan (1-1). Manchester scored last in the tenth inning, Mitchell Baker hit a sacrifice fly that scored Mitchell Cobb (2-1). Two Defiance pitchers saw action on Saturday. The Yellow Jackets recorded 5 hits in the contest: Trent Murdock, Gunner Gregg, and Tyler Dehan each with one while Alex Morr recorded two. Morr also had a stolen base. Starting pitcher sophomore Sam Thombs went 8 innings and faced 29 batters, throwing 102 pitches with 72 of those being strikes. The last pitcher for Defiance was sophomore Jeffrey Varga, he was on the bump 2 innings and faced 8 batters. He tossed 21 pitches and 11 strikes.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Runs
Hits
Errors
Manchester (Ind.)
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
7
1
Defiance
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
5
0
Defiance College 12 vs Bluffton University 1
Junior, Natalee Cooper attempts to tag out a Bluffton runner at home.
The Defiance College softball team opened up their two game series with Bluffton University in a big way on Saturday. Defiance started out strong in the first inning scoring 7 runs. Senior Lily Linke reached first on a fielder’s choice, then junior Brooke Silcox scored on a throwing error. (1-0). Sophomore Destiny Coil singled up the middle to score senior Josilyn Guzman (2-0). Junior Laney Grimwood followed up with another single up the middle to score Lily Linke (3-0). Then sophomore Amber Krause continued the pattern with another single up the middle to score Ali Mowen (4-0). Next junior Natalee Cooper hit a sacrifice fly to score Destiny Coil (5-0). Lastly, a double by senior Marissa Roberts cleared the other runners off the bases, plating Amber Krause and Laney Grimwood (7-0). The Beavers scored their lone run in the third inning when Julia Tegeder was hit by a pitch, forcing Bobbi Adams to cross the plate (7-1). The Yellow Jackets ended the scoring in the third inning. Brooke Silcox singled to score Amber Krause (8-1). Then Lily Linke singled to score Brooke Silcox and Marissa Roberts (10-1). Lastly, Destiny Coil doubled to drive in Lily Linke and Josilyn Guzman (12-1). The Yellow Jackets put 11 runs in the book: Marissa Roberts, Lily Linke, and Laney Grimwood each with one, Brooke Silcox, Destiny Coil, Ali Mowen, and Amber Krause each added two. Savannah McCoy went the full 5 innings for the Yellow Jackets. She faced 25 batters and threw 89 pitches with 50 of those being strikes. The Defiance College Yellow Jackets ended this game quickly by run ruling Bluffton to end the game in five innings.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
Runs
Hits
Errors
Bluffton
0
0
1
0
0
1
5
2
Defiance
7
0
5
0
X
12
11
0
Defiance College 10 vs Bluffton University 2
Sophomore Anika Craft throws a pitch to a Bluffton batter on Saturday.
The second game for the softball team was just as successful as the first ending in five innings as well. The game remained scoreless until the fourth inning. Defiance sophomore Amber Krause grounded out to score sophomore Kelly Limbaugh (1-0). Bluffton took their only lead of the game in the fifth inning when Kryshel Dales singled to score Mia McCartney (1-1). Then the Beavers scored the go ahead run when Bobbi Adams singled to score Kryshel Dales (1-2). The Yellow Jackets dominated the bottom of the fifth inning to end the game. Senior Josilyn Guzman singled to score junior Brooke Silcox and senior Marissa Roberts (3-2). Freshman Ali Mowen singled to score Josilyn Guzman (4-2). Sophomore Destiny Coil blasted the ball over the left field fence to plate herself and Ali Mowen (6-2). Laney Grimwood scored after a fielder’s choice allowed Anika Craft to reach first and forced a throwing error (7-2). Sophomore Jessica Leggett scored on a wild pitch (8-2). Marissa Roberts hit a sacrifice fly to score Anika Craft (9-2). Defiance sealed the deal when senior Lily Linke singled to score Brooke Silcox (10-2). The Yellow Jackets recorded 13 hits in the contest: Anika Craft, Lily Linke, Ali Mowen, Laney Grimwood, and Amber Krause each recorded one, Marissa Roberts, Brooke Silcox, Josilyn Guzman, and Destiny Coil each added two. Anika Craft went the full 5 innings for Defiance throwing 80 pitches with 53 of those being strikes as she faced 23 batters.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
Runs
Hits
Errors
Bluffton
0
0
0
0
2
2
6
3
Defiance
0
0
0
1
9
10
13
0
Men’s Track & Field at the Warrior Open
The Defiance College Men’s Track & Field team competed at the Warrior Open on Friday. Several members of the Men’s team found success. Senior Ja’Qway Janvier ran the 100-meter dash for the first time. He ran it in 11.18 seconds earning him 10th place. Marcus Frye also competed in the 100-meter dash running it in a time of 13.07 seconds. Marcus also competed in the javelin throw, throwing it 28.30 meters. Gavin Maratea ran the 200-meter dash finishing with a time of 23.84 seconds earning him a new PR and 32nd place. Ron Scott competed in the shot put and discus. He earned a new PR in the discus throwing it 33.22 meters.
Women’s Track & Field at the Warrior Open
The Defiance College Women’s Track & Field team competed at the Warrior Open on Friday. Several women also participated in the meet. Lisa-Maria Markau competed in the 100-meter dash recording a time of 12.67 seconds to earn her 10th place. Hailei Haynes also ran the 100-meter dash ending with a time of 13.22 seconds earning her a new PR. Lisa-Maria Markau, Shyla Pemberton, and Shanti Elkins all ran the 200-meter dash, placing 8th, 12th, and 18th respectively. Brianna Snider competed in the 800-meter dash as well as the javelin throw. She earned 19th place in the javelin throw. Lexi Coward competed in the 800-meter dash, finishing with a time of 3:16.39 which is a new PR for her.
(Next Week April 10th – April 16th)
*Home Events are indicated in purple*
(Wednesday, April 12th) Softball vs Alma College
Location: Sal Hench Field
Time: 3pm and 5pm
(Wednesday, April 12th) Baseball vs Ohio Wesleyan University
Location: Rutter Field
Time: 4pm
(Saturday, April 15th) Baseball vs Anderson University
Location: Don Brandon Field
Time: 12pm and 3pm
(Saturday, April 15th) Softball vs Transylvania University
Location: Hall Field (Lexington, KY)
Time: 1pm and 3 pm
(Saturday, April 15th) Baseball vs Anderson University
Location: Don Brandon Field
Time: 12pm
(Saturday, April 15th) Men’s Track & Field All-Ohio Championships
Location: Ohio Wesleyan University
Time: TBD
(Saturday, April 15th) Women’s Track & Field All-Ohio Championships
I would like to introduce to you Alesia Yakos-Brown. She is the Associate Professor of Social Work and the field coordinator. She has been at Defiance College for 21 years. Her first year she was an adjunct professor and then became full time in 2002. She was on the social work advisory board for Defiance College and one of their faculty members needed a medical leave and the college was looking for some volunteers to teach some courses. Professor Yakos-Brown took the offer to teach some classes at Defiance College. She had taught some classes previously at the Lake Campus of Wright State. Her favorite part about working at Defiance College is working with the students.
It was a struggle for her to answer the question on what her favorite class to teach is. She said she really enjoys teaching all of her classes for different reasons. Some of her 200 level classes, such as cultural diversity and social problems, get some different perspectives from different majors in those classes, so she enjoys teaching those classes. She attended Defiance College to obtain her bachelors degree in social work and psychology. She graduated from Defiance College in 1986. In 1990 she graduated from the Ohio State University with her MSW in social work focusing on clinical practice of child and family services.
To get to know Professor Yakos-Brown a little more personally, I asked her some personal questions. Her favorite superhero is Batman. Her favorite author is Barbara Ehrenreich. Some of her hobbies include traveling, yard work, and watching movies. Her favorite genre of movies is mysteries. Her favorite subjects in school were life sciences like biology and social studies.
In the storied history of college football, few moments have captivated audiences quite like the Kick Six. It was a moment that defied logic, transcended the sport, and became a cultural phenomenon. It was a moment of pure bliss for Auburn fans, a memory they will cherish for the rest of their lives. While it was a moment of disbelief for Alabama fans, a nightmare they still can’t wake up from.
On November 30th, 2013, the college football world watched in awe as Auburn and Alabama clashed in the annual Iron Bowl. The stakes were high, as they always are in this heated rivalry. But no one could have predicted what was about to happen. With just one second remaining on the clock and the score tied at 28, Alabama lined up for a game-winning field goal. As the ball flew through the air, many thought the kick was good initially, but fans quickly recognized that the kick was short as the ball started falling closer to the ground. Just before the ball hit the ground, Auburn cornerback Chris Davis shockingly caught the ball in the back of the end zone. What happened next was nothing short of miraculous. Davis ran the ball 109 yards back for a touchdown, avoiding multiple tackles and outrunning the entire Alabama team in the process. The stadium erupted into pandemonium as Auburn fans flooded the field, leaving Alabama fans stunned.
The Kick Six was not just a moment of triumph for Auburn but a moment that symbolized the spirit and magic of college football. It was a reminder that anything can happen on any given play, and that the impossible can become possible in the blink of an eye. It was a moment that united a fan base, that provided hope for future success, and it was a moment that will be remembered for generations to come.
But how did we get to this point? What led up to this incredible moment in Auburn football history? To understand the significance of the Kick Six, we must first look back at the season that preceded it.
The 2013 season was a rollercoaster ride for Auburn fans. After a disappointing 3-9 record the previous year, expectations were low. But under the leadership of head coach Gus Malzahn, the Tigers started the season strong. They won their first three games and went on to beat Ole Miss and Texas A&M in back-to-back weeks. But it was their matchup against top-ranked Alabama that would define their season.
Alabama entered the Iron Bowl as the overwhelming favorite. They were the reigning national champions, and their dominance over college football was undisputed. But Auburn had other plans. They kept the game close throughout, and it all came down to that fateful final play.
As Davis returned the missed field goal for a touchdown, the Auburn sideline erupted into pandemonium. But the celebration was far from over. The play was reviewed to ensure that Davis had not stepped out of bounds or committed a penalty. Once the call was confirmed, the party continued. Auburn fans stormed the field while Alabama fans sat in stunned silence.
For Auburn, the Kick Six was more than just a win. It was a moment of redemption and vindication after a tough season the previous year. It was a moment that announced to the world that Auburn football was back, that they were a force to be reckoned with once again, and it was a moment that would forever be etched in the memories of Auburn fans.
Years later, the Kick Six remains one of the greatest moments in college football history. It has been replayed countless times on television, and it is still a topic of discussion among sports fans everywhere. But for Auburn fans, it is more than just a moment in time. It is a symbol of hope, perseverance, and never giving up, even when the odds are stacked against you. And it is a reminder that even in the darkest of moments, there is always the potential for greatness.
The Kick Six has also had a lasting impact on the sport of football itself. It has influenced the way coaches approach the end of games, particularly in situations where a field goal attempt is the difference between victory and defeat. Some coaches now opt to keep their offense on the field to prevent a potential return, rather than sending out their special teams unit.
The Kick Six also helped to cement the Iron Bowl as one of the greatest rivalries in all of sports. For decades, Alabama and Auburn have battled it out on the gridiron, with each game carrying its own significance. But the Kick Six elevated the rivalry to a new level. It created a moment that will forever be associated with this storied matchup, a moment that will always be a part of its history.
In conclusion, the Kick Six was not just a great sports moment, but a moment that transcended the sport itself. It was a moment that united a fan base, that provided hope for future success, and that will forever be etched in the memories of those who witnessed it. And while Auburn fans may never experience anything quite like the Kick Six again, they can take solace in the fact that they were a part of something truly special.
Did you know according to “20 Awesome Facts About April”, “April also only had 29 days, but a 30th day was added when Julius Caeser established the Julian calendar?”
Even though the month of April has been around for thousands of years no one truly knows how April got its name. However, some people believe that the Romans named it “Aprillis.” Also, the etymology behind the word April comes from the verb “aperire” which means “to open.” Most people believe that this came from the season of trees and flowers begin to “open” or bloom.
People that are born in April’s birthstone a diamond, and their flower is either a daisy or sweet pea. The diamond birthstone represents innocence.
One of the most known dates of April is April First which is also known as April’s Fools Day. Even though April Fool’s Day is known all across the country no one is quite sure where this day originated from. Some people believe that it is inspired by Geoffrey Chaucer’s story in “Canterbury Tales” which is also known as “Nun’s Priest’s Tale.”
Some notable historical people that were born in April include Leonardo da Vinci, Shakespeare, and Queen Elizabeth II.
The famous titanic ship hit an iceberg and sank on its first and only voyage on April 14, 1912. On April 17, 1964, Ford unreviled their first Mustang at an outstanding cost of $2,368.
Some interesting “just for fun days” that are celebrated throughout the month of April include: International Pillow Fight Day, Sweet Potato Day, National No Housework Day, Go Fly a Kite Day, and National Sense of Smell Day.
To go along with “just for fun days”, there are also several holidays that are celebrated during the month of April. Some of these holidays include: April’s Fools Day, Palm Sunday, start of Passover, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Earth Day and National Arbor Day.
To finalize, April is a very interesting month based on the different events that take place during the month.
No, it’s not the latest Marvel entry or a $100-million budgeted Tom Cruise flick. It’s called “Cocaine Bear.”
Against all odds, this mid-budget horror-comedy, which exists purely to show, in gory detail, what would happen if a cocaine-addicted bear went on a murderous rampage. There’s not all that much to “Cocaine Bear.” An insane drug dealer throws duffel bags of cocaine out of an airplane above Georgia, and a bear finds the bags before authorities or the smuggler’s associates can.
Murder ensues when a Swedish couple, two little kids playing hooky from school, three teenage hooligans, a drug dealer and his reformed partner, a park ranger and her lover, a mother, two ambulance drivers, and a southern detective converge on the park for various reasons.
Surprisingly, “Cocaine Bear” even manages to squeeze out a central theme amidst the carnage in the importance of parenthood. One father in the story forces his son into the drug dealing business, and the primary plot beyond “A bear does cocaine” is a mother trying to save her daughter in the woods. Even Cokey the Bear is just looking out for her kids, two little cubs also addicted to cocaine, as you find out towards the end of the film.
The movie isn’t flawless (though it is close). It peaks with the ambulance scene teased in the trailer, which occurs about halfway through the film. While the rest of the movie is still fun, it starts to drag a bit. It also lacks much rewatch value. If we hadn’t seen it in a packed theater where the audience clapped every time the bear killed someone, it may not have been nearly as enjoyable the first time.
But the gore. That’s what makes the movie itself.
If you’re not prepared for gore, you should not watch this movie. Blood and limbs everywhere, at all times. If that’s your thing, though, the violence in “Cocaine Bear” is funny and unique. There are also countless little comedic details throughout the movie. The detective is clearly lonely, and he tries to get a dog to help but ends up with a shih-tzu instead of a labrador. He then spends the rest of the movie both upset that he didn’t get a fun dog and sad that he has to leave her behind to go look for cocaine in the woods. And don’t even get me started on the traitor character in this film. That person might have ruined this otherwise nearly-perfect movie for me. At one point, the detective shoots off two of the drug dealer’s fingers: his pinky and his middle finger. How did the bullet miss his ring finger?
Overall, despite the shocking amount of gore and drugs, the movie was aight.
Defiance College Softball took on Albion College in Albion after a battle with the weather. The game started off quietly with neither team scoring until the 4th inning. Albion scored first in the top of the 4th inning off of a single shot home run by Courtney Ellis (0-1). The Yellow Jackets responded in the bottom of the fifth inning when senior Marissa Roberts hit a 2 RBI single into right field, scoring juniors Genesis Brooks and Laney Grimwood (2-1). The Yellow Jackets recorded five hits in the game: Anna Emswiler, Ali Mowen, Laney Grimwood, Amber Krause, and Marissa Roberts each had 1. Roberts recorded two RBIs. Emswiler, Krause, and Kelly Limbaugh each had a stolen base as well. Junior Savannah McCoy spent the entire 7 innings in the circle for the Yellow Jackets. McCoy had 4 strikes out, facing 25 batters. She threw 99 pitches, 63 of those were strikes. Defiance left the game error free.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Runs
Hits
Errors
Albion (Mich.)
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
3
1
Defiance
0
0
0
0
2
0
X
2
5
0
March 28th – Softball
Defiance College 5 vs Albion College 0
In the second game of the night at Albion, Defiance dominated the game from the first inning. After senior Marissa Roberts and sophomore Anika Craft made it to first and second base respectively, Craft stole 3rd base drawing a throwing error on the catcher allowing Craft to score (1-0). Junior Brooke Silcox followed this up with an RBI single to score Roberts (2-0). Senior Lily Linke then hit a single into right field, advancing to second on a throw, which allowed senior Josilyn Guzman to score (3-0). That was not the last time the Yellow Jackets struck during this game. In the bottom of the 2nd inning, Marissa Roberts singled into center field which allowed sophomore Amber Krause to score (4-0). In the bottom of the 6th inning Defiance rounded out the scoring when freshman Savanah Bergman hit a single into right field that allowed Josilyn Guzman (5-0). The Yellow Jackets had 9 hits in the game. Anika Craft, Marissa Roberts, Lily Linke, and Savanah Bergman each had one while Brooke Silcox and Josilyn Guzman each recorded two. Craft recorded two stolen bases. Anika Craft went the whole 7 innings, recording 10 strikeouts, she faced 26 batters and threw 98 pitches, 64 of those being strikes. Defiance College commited one error in the game.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
Albion (Mich.)
3
1
0
0
0
1
X
5
9
1
March 28th – Baseball
Postponed – Defiance College vs Terra State Community College
Defiance College Baseball postponed their game with a date not yet determined due to wet field conditions.
April 1st – Softball
Defiance College 10 vs Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology 3
The Defiance College Softball team traveled to Rose-Hulman for a two game series on Saturday. The Yellow Jackets started off the game with a big first inning. Senior Josilyn Guzman singled, driving in senior Marissa Roberts, moving junior Brooke Silcox, and then advancing to second herself on the throw (1-0). Senior Lily Linke followed this up with another RBI single scoring Roberts and advancing Guzman to third (2-0). Then freshman Ali Mowen reached first and moved to second on an error, Linke moved to third and Guzman scored (3-0). Lastly, in the first inning sophomore Amber Krause stole second and Mowen scored on a throwing error (4-0). The Yellow Jackets struck again in the second inning when Brooke Silcox singled, moving to second on a throw, then advancing to third on an error and scoring Marissa Roberts (5-0). Then Josilyn Guzman grounded out, scoring Silcox (6-0). Rose-Hulman scored their first run of the game in the third inning when Jadyn Winker hit an RBI double that scored Phoebe Worstell (5-1). The Fightin’ Engineers then scored again in the fifth inning, Nicole Lang hit a homerun scoring herself and Katelyn Sarvis (5-3). Defiance answered in the sixth inning when Ali Mowen hit a two RBI double that scored Josilyn Guzman and Brooke Silcox (8-3). The Yellow Jackets ended the game adding a few more runs to the board. In the top of the seventh Brooke Silcox hit a sacrifice fly that scored sophomore Kelly Limbaugh (9-3). Rounding out the scoring was Josilyn Guzman with a solo shot homerun (10-3). Defiance had 14 hits in the game and several players that recorded multiple hits. Ali Mowen, Laney Grimwood, and Destiny Coil each had one, Brooke Silcox had two, and Marissa Roberts, Lily Linke, and Josilyn Guzman all had three. Roberts, Coil, and Linke all had doubles as well. Josilyn Guzman had the lone homerun in the game. Multiple players had RBIs including: Lily Linke with one, Brooke Silcox with two, and Josilyn Guzman and Ali Mowen each had three. Three stolen bases were recorded by the Yellow Jackets by: Lily Linke, Amber Krause, and Kelly Limbaugh. Junior Savannah McCoy pitched a complete game for the Yellow Jackets. She faced 32 batters throwing 108 pitches with 62 of those being strikes. Defiance committed 3 errors.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
4
2
0
0
0
2
2
10
14
3
Rose-Hulman (Ind.)
0
0
1
0
2
0
0
3
6
5
April 1st – Softball
Defiance College 7 vs Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology 4
The second game of the day for Defiance College’s softball team proved to be as successful as the first. The Yellow Jackets struck first once again, this time in the second inning. Freshman Anna Emswiler grounded out, but that scored freshman Ali Mowen as well as moved sophomore Amber Krause to third base (1-0). Defiance scored again in the third inning; junior Brooke Silcox singled, then advanced to third on errors, which scored sophomore Kelly Limbaugh (2-0). Next senior Josilyn Guzman singled to score Brooke Silcox (3-0). The Yellow Jackets scored in three consecutive innings when they added to the scoreboard again in the fourth inning. Junior Laney Grimwood hit a solo homerun (4-0). Brooke Silcox singled again, moving senior Marissa Roberts to second and scoring sophomore Anika Craft (5-0). Rose-Hulman tried to rally in the fourth inning. Phoebe Wortsell singled, moving Nicole Lang to second and scoring Katelyn Sarvis (5-1). Then Lang scored on a wild pitch (5-2). The Fightin’ Engineers continued to try battling back again in the sixth inning when Nicole Lang homered, scoring herself and Katelyn Sarvis (5-4). Defiance College answered this run by scoring again in the seventh inning. Anna Emswiler singled, scoring Ali Mowen and moving Amber Krause to third (6-4). Lasty, Anika Craft hit a sacrifice fly to score Krause (7-4). Defiance pounded the hits in this game totaling 14, Marissa Roberts and Anna Emswiler each had one, Josilyn Guzman, Ali Mowen, Amber Krause, and Laney Grimwood each had two, while Brooke Silcox threw in a total of four hits. Anika Craft, Josilyn Guzman, and Laney Grimwood each had an RBI while Brooke Silcox and Anna Emswiler had two. Craft and Kelly Limbaugh each had a stolen base. Anika Craft spent the whole game in the circle for Defiance. She faced 30 batters, throwing 119 pitches with 83 of those falling in the zone. The Yellow Jackets recorded 3 errors.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
0
1
2
2
0
0
2
7
14
3
Rose-Hulman (Ind.)
0
0
0
2
0
2
0
4
6
4
April 1st – Men’s Track
Tiffleberg Open
The Defiance College Men’s Track & Field team traveled to Heidelberg University for the Tiffleberg Open. The Yellow Jackets had two men place as well as several others that set personal records. Freshman Marlon Brown competed in the 400 meter dash finishing with a time of 49.82 seconds which captured him a second place finish. Brown also competed in the 200 meter dash setting a PR with a time of 22.62 seconds. Sophomore Gavin Maratea competed in the 100 meter dash for the first time setting a PR completing it in 11.79 seconds. Freshman Landon Sensmeier also competed in the 100 meter dash for the first time finishing it in 12.83 seconds. Freshman Isaac Miler competed in the 200 meter dash setting a PR with a time of 23.39 seconds. Miler also competed in the Long Jump placing tenth. Junior Ron Scott also competed in the shot put event throwing 11.35 meters.
April 1st – Women’s Track
Tiffleberg Open
The Defiance College Women’s Track & Field teams also traveled to Tiffin for the Tiffleberg Open. Senior Lisa-Marie Markau competed in the 100 meter dash setting a new PR with a time of 12.60 seconds earning her second place. Markau also competed in the 200 meter dash placing third. Sophomore Lexi Coward and senior Brianna Snider each participated in the 800 meter run. Freshman Shyla Pemberton competed in the 400 meter dash finishing with a time of 1:05.20 earning her seventh place.
April 1st – Baseball (Moved to Sunday, April 2nd)
Defiance College 3 vs Bluffton University 7
Senior pitcher, Cohen Nies hurls a strike during the matchup with Bluffton.
Defiance College Baseball moved their games from Saturday to Sunday due to weather. In the first game the Yellow Jackets came up just short. The first two innings started off slowly, however, in the third inning Bluffton scored the first run. Jack Maurer hit an RBI single that scored Grant Hovest (1-0). Defiance tied the game up in the fifth inning after senior Alex Morr reached first and senior Dylan King scored (1-1). Bluffton struck again in the sixth inning when Kenny Schneider doubled, driving in Ezra Deitering and Nick Diana (3-1). The Beavers added to their lead in the seventh inning after Jack Towell doubled to score Jake Baumgartn (4-1). They struck again in the same inning after Nick Diana singled to score Towell (5-1). Defiance rallied in the bottom of the inning. After sophomore Tyler Dehan and Alex Morr got on base, Morr stole second then moved to third while Dehan scored (5-2). Junior Mitchell Roever hit a sacrifice fly to score Alex Morr (5-3). The Beavers would seal the game in the ninth inning by extending their lead. Ezra Deitering singled, moving Justin Maurer to third and scoring Jack Towell on a throwing error (6-3). Justin Maurer scored on a wild pitch (7-3). The Yellow Jackets recorded eight hits: Mitchell Roever, Austin Horning, Trent Murdock, Gunner Gregg, Josh Vischer, and Alex Morr all had one, while Hunter Bostater added two. Bostater had the lone double for the Yellow Jackets and Roever recorded the lone RBI. Tyler Dehan, Mitchell Roever, and Alex Morr each had a stolen base. Three pitchers saw action for Defiance today. Starting pitcher senior Cohen Nies had a six inning outing, facing 27 batters, throwing 112 pitches with 68 of those being strikes. The next pitcher for the Yellow Jackets was sophomore Tyler Sickmiller, he pitched 0.2 innings, facing 6 batters, throwing 30 pitches, 18 of those falling in the zone. Lastly, junior Johnny Hammerstein finished the game facing 12 batters in his 2.1 innings pitched. He threw 44 pitches, 21 of those being strikes. Defiance had two errors in the game.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Bluffton
0
0
1
0
0
2
2
0
2
7
7
1
Defiance
0
0
0
0
1
0
2
0
0
3
8
2
April 1st – Baseball (Moved to Sunday, April 2nd)
Defiance College 4 vs Bluffton University 14
Junior, Mitchell Roever dives back to first base after Bluffton’s pitcher attempts a pick off.
The second game of the day for the Defiance College Baseball team fell short. Bluffton started the game off in the first inning with a three run home run by Justin Maurer to score himself, Jack Towell, and Grant Hovest (3-0). Then Ezra Deitering hit an RBI double to score Kenny Schnieder (4-0). The Yellow Jackets brought themselves within one in the bottom of the first inning. Junior Trent Murdock doubled down the left field line to score senior Austin Horning and junior Mitchell Roever (4-2). Then senior Hunter Bostater singled to score Murdock (4-3). Defiance College struck again in the third inning after Trent Murdock hit a sacrifice fly, plating Mitchell Roever to tie the game (4-4). However, this was the closest that Defiance would come to pulling out the win. The Bluffton Beavers scored the go ahead run in the fifth as well as added a few extra. A string of hits landed in Bluffton’s favor, a single by Ezra Deitering scored Justin Maurer, a double by Evan Houseman, scoring Nick Diana followed (6-4). Then Austin Francis singled to score Evan Houseman and Ezra Deitering, Austin Francis scored on a throwing error (9-4). The seventh saw more hits from the Beavers. Austin Francis doubled to score Ezra Deitering, Grant Hovest singled to score Evan Houseman, and finally, Jack Towell doubled to score Grant Hovest (13-4). Bluffton ended the scoring in the eighth inning off of an Evan Houseman groundout to score Nick Diana (14-4). The Yellow Jackets recorded 8 hits in the game: Mitchell Roever, Austin Horning, Trent Murdock, and Josh Vischer each had one while Alex Morr and Hunter Bostater each added two. Murdock and Morr each recorded a double. Hunter Bostater had one RBI and Trent Murdock had three RBIs in the contest. Three pitchers also saw action Sunday. Starting pitcher sophomore Sam Thombs went 4.1 innings facing 26 batters, he threw 104 pitches 66 of those being in the zone. The next pitcher for the Yellow Jackets, sophomore Jeffrey Varga, contributed 1.2 innings facing 11 batters and throwing 36 pitches, 25 of those being strikes. The last pitcher for Defiance was freshman Ethan Jenkins. Jenkins spent 2 innings on the mound throwing 34 pitches, 19 of those being strikes and facing 10 batters. The Yellow Jackets committed one error.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Bluffton
4
0
0
0
5
0
4
1
0
14
19
0
Defiance
3
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
8
1
April 2nd – Baseball (Moved to Monday, April 3rd)
Defiance College vs Bluffton University
Due to the weather this weekend the Defiance College Baseball games with Bluffton University were postponed a day. Making the games on Saturday, April first were moved to Sunday and the game scheduled for Sunday has been moved to Monday.
(Next Week April 3rd – April 9th)
*Home Events are indicated in purple*
(Monday, April 3rd) Softball vs Adrian College
Location: AC Softball Field
Time: 4pm and 6pm
(Monday, April 3rd) Baseball vs Adrian College (Schedule Change)
Location: Rutter Field
Time: 4pm
(Friday, April 7th) Baseball vs Manchester University
Location: Rutter Field
Time: 1pm and 4pm
(Saturday, April 8th) Baseball vs Manchester University
Location: Rutter Field
Time: 1pm
(Saturday, April 8th) Softball vs Bluffton University
Location: Sal Hench Field
Time: 1pm and 3pm
(Saturday, April 8th) Men’s Track & Field at the 2023 Landon Bond Classic
Location: Berea College
Time: TBA
(Saturday, April 8th) Women’s Track & Field at the 2023 Landon Bond Classic
You guessed it, Lexie Sparks is a Senior this year, and the basketball team is sad to see her leave. She played in twenty-three games this season and certainly made a difference in the Defiance v Bluffton game. When I asked her to describe herself in one word, she said ambitious. While it certainly applied on the court, she said that it even more in terms of academics. She said that one of her goals was to make the Dean’s list every semester, which she was able to do. She went on to say that the main reason she was here at Defiance College was to get her degree and that athletics was just an add-on for her. It was a way for her to get involved and make friends. She said, “it was an opportunity for me to continue doing what I love.”
With her deep love of basketball, it is no surprise that her favorite memory had to do with basketball. Her freshman year, she went to Transylvania with her team for a basketball game. This was an overnight trip for the team, and she remembers staying up all night playing video games with her friends. The next day, they lost, “but the bus ride was the most fun bus ride, even though we lost by like forty points. We were just having so much fun, and at that point, I just realized that these people were my best friends for the next four years.”
Switching over to academics, Lexie is graduating with a double major in Criminal Justice and Psychology. Every major, no matter which one, has its difficult classes, and they can be challenging to get through. When I asked her how she persisted, despite the challenge, she referenced her future. In order for her to get where she wants to go, she needs to take steps to get there, so she always kept that in mind while studying. She also mentioned her parents and the work ethic they instilled in her. They taught her to not give up no matter what, so that was also a big motivator for her. She told me that she knew that college “ was going to be a challenge and it wasn’t going to be awhile in the park, but I wanted to be able to say that I finished it and was able to get a good job after everything.”
When I asked her if she had any parting words for the campus, both faculty and staff and students, she said that she just wanted to say thank you “for helping me through this experience and also giving me experiences. I’ve met so many great people through this experience and I just want to say thank you. For everything.” Make sure to come to see Lexie at graduation on May 13 and help her and all the other graduates celebrate their success!
A new season of Outer Bankshas finally arrived on Netflix and has wasted no time in jumping to the top of the Netflix Top 10 in the US and across several regions. Before the new season even aired you could see the show creeping toward the number 1 spot due to people rewatching the show, before its return. The show’s return and immediate rise to the top of the charts have created a natural curiosity among audiences who both haven’t yet begun watching the show as well as casual fans regarding whether the new season is worth adding to the watchlist — or frankly if it’s any good.
Outer Banks season 3 is streaming now on Netflix. The question is should you spend your time watching season three or even starting the show? The answer is – absolutely yay!
From the start, Outer Banks has had a way of captivating viewers with its thrilling plot, dynamic characters, and stunning setting. One of the key reasons that Outer Banks is so successful is its ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, and season 3 definitely does just that. The past two seasons have left viewers on a “cliffhanger” and made fans wait almost two full years for a new season. The season is full of unexpected twists and turns, and just when you think you know what’s going to happen, the plot takes a dramatic turn. This keeps viewers engaged and invested in the story, which is what every good show should do.
If you thought the twists that came our way in seasons 1 and 2 were wild, just wait until season 3 which turns the crazy up to 11 in the best way possible! The stakes are higher, the relationship drama reaches all-time highs and the season’s overarching adventure is the show’s most ambitious yet! Between new characters, past drama, and so much more, season 3 will not disappoint.
For superfans season four has already been announced and is in the works. But the question is what will happen next, and will it be pogues or kooks?
