Seattle Conversation regarding HC direction -- CROSSPORTS: Holy Cross Crusaders Sports Message Board

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Date Posted: 14:54:11 03/31/04 Wed
Author: Chu Chu
Subject: Seattle Conversation regarding HC direction
In reply to: sader1970 's message, "HC direction" on 07:16:03 03/31/04 Wed

The Holy Cross Alumni Club of Western Washington (State) convened last evening at the Purple Caf� and Wine Bar. 49 guests turned up to visit with Father Mike McFarland and Paul Scheff from the Developmment office. Sports was not the focus of the evening, but Father McFarland made a few points in his talk and in conversations during the evening that bear on the discussion of this thread. I will report them here, since what was discussed in that forum should also be appropriate for this board.

Father McFarland traveled to Colorado with the Men's Hockey Team, and is very excited about their performance (called it huge for the school) and he is aware of how athletics can help the college's name recognition and branding. When asked about the ECAC, he said that they have been contacted by HC and told that Holy Cross is interested. He said that it now depends on what the interest of the ECAC is, and HC is open to discussion with them. He gave tremendous accolades to Paul Pearl as a wonderful coach who recruits "just the kind of people that you want to have at Holy Cross".

The subject of basketball came up in a general way, and he made the comment that he would love to see a "home and home" series with Gonzaga. No committment that it will happen. Also talked about a Jesuit College Tournament concept, which would be a way of getting some games to raise our visibility. Compared HC with 27 varsity sports to Gonzaga with 18, and said that our small size (1/2 that of Gonzaga) makes funding so many teams a large burden. Said that over 4 years at Holy Cross, 1/3 of the student body plays at least one varsity sport, and 25% at any one time are on at least one team.

Also spoke about Coach Gilmore, who he credited with great understanding of the Holy Cross mission, and with already bringing in needed discipline and reinvigorating enthusiasm for the program. I got the impression that his selection as head coach is part of an overall rededication to the excellence of the program.

The issue of the Patriot League came up obliquely. Father Mike is aware of the positives, which he cited as compatible institutions, with some good rivalries from the past in certain sports, such as Colgate and Army. He is also aware of the lack of New England interest in some of the other league members that we have less of a history with, but thinks that in time, that may change. He cited the American series in men's hoops as one people have grown to appreciate.

I asked about the issue of the new Soccer Stadium, and why Fitton Field could not be used with Field Turf and lights. He said that has been looked at, but rejected for now, due to the fact that Coach Comrie feels that having a natural grass surface is a must, and because the field is unfortunately too narrow for soccer, and would require dismantling of the visitor stands.

It was an enjoyable evening, made all the more fun by the good turn out of HC alums who are doing very interesting things here in the Northwest!

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[> [> One Comment -- HC1843, 15:10:34 03/31/04 Wed

Good analysis Rick but the last one gave me a chuckle.

"F Lee Melchionni ( soph ) - was class president during his junior year of high school. Also involved in the Student Council, the Singing Patriots (a competitive performing group), Kids Teaching Kids and the Ambassador Club as a prep student."

I am sure you are not insinuating these achievement have anything to do with academics...extracurriculars yes...academics no.

This being said, Duke has more than its share of academically bright kids to defend itself against the likes of UNLV.

Cheers.

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[> [> [> Re: One Comment - LOL ! -- Rick, 17:24:12 03/31/04 Wed

1843 -

I cut & pasted that line directly from Duke's site. Thought about deleting the 'Singing Patriots' but just couldn't do it !!!!

Being Class President, envolved in Student Council as well as a school 'Ambassador' ( if it's akin to same at my son's prep school, being a top student is a prerequisite ), are indicative that young Melchionni likely didn't score a 925/950 on his SAT's.

BTW, coming down your way this weekend to visit my nephew, catch the Spring football scrimmage and take in the Wake-UNC baseball game on Saturday. I'll remember to wear my purple HC golf shirt and likely will have my Wake baseball hat on top. If you spot a guy at either game who I've been told bares a physical resemblence to Tommy Lee Jones, come over and chat !

Hope all is going well with the studies....

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