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Celebrating Student-Athletes on their College Commitments

4/13/2023

Collegiate School’s Director of Athletics Andrew Stanley, coaches, teammates and families gathered in the Craigie Boardroom of Sharp Academic Commons to celebrate four student-athletes from the Class of 2023 for their commitment to continuing their careers as NCAA athletes. Congrats, Cougars! You make us proud.

JACK BRADLEY, FOOTBALL, SEWANEE

“Jack has developed as a really great punter. His statistics back that up. In 39 punts, he averaged 40.1 yards a punt, which is fantastic. He’s one of the best punters in the area overall. His longest punt was 57 yards. He had four punts that were down inside the 10 yard line, and when you have a player that can pin your opponent back like that it’s really a special weapon to have. So as he goes off to Sewanee next year he’ll bring that skill with him and really help their football team.”

-Mark Palyo, Head Coach

WILLIAM BRITT, BASKETBALL, HAMPDEN-SYDNEY COLLEGE

“‘Culture wins’ is our motto as a basketball program, and he represents that in every way. He shows up every day with commitment, trust and hard work. He was a leader on our basketball team this year as a captain, but even more so off the court. He sets an example for the younger players in our program. As a player, he has tremendous versatility. He has a tremendous basketball IQ, and I really do believe he has his best years ahead of him at Hampden-Sydney.”

-Del Harris, Head Coach

SILAS GWATHMEY, BASEBALL, EASTERN MENNONITE UNIVERSITY

“Silas has been a five-year varsity player, and it’s awesome to see your hard work and graduation come to play. He’s battled through a lot of adversity and injury, and I’m so proud of the revolve he’s shown through it all. He continued to show up every day. He’s always smiling and he has always been a positive influence on the team, which I love. He’s always willing to take on various roles — Silas has played as an infielder, pitcher and outfielder — and he’s done a dynamite job in all of them. I’m really excited to follow his journey, because I know he’s going to do great things.”

-Andrew Slater, Head Coach

HANK SHIELD, BASEBALL, RHODES COLLEGE

“Hank is an awesome teammate. As a four-year varsity player, Hank has had a great career with us. He’s been an outstanding defensive player — probably our best defensive center fielder I’ve had in my 15 years here. He hits the ball consistently and is a persistent presence offensively. Everyone on the team really appreciates his consistency. I’m so excited that you found a great fit at Rhodes College, especially because you carefully took your time in the process. I know you’re going to do great things there. Congratulations!”

-Andrew Slater, Head Coach

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