New Student-Athlete Cookout

Carly Danner 

New athletes at the Mount participated in a cookout at Echo Field on Sept. 4. The goal was to help students who had just joined a sports team at the Mount connect with the chaplains and each other. 

Burgers and hot dogs were served, while activities of the evening included spikeball and cornhole. With many members of the Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in attendance along with Floyd, Fr. Justin Gogh's Corgi, the cookout was enjoyable for all. 

Seminarians welcomed the athletes and gave them a brief overview of their mission of supporting the athletes, and not only guiding them towards being good players, but also good people.  

Deacon Sam Martinez commented, “It’s been wonderful to see the way athletes intertwined with Bible studies. For athletes who cannot attend any of the existing Bible study groups, most create their own.”  

Jack Morris, a seminarian and chaplain for the cheer team, stated, “As chaplains, we go to one or two team practices a week and have a meaningful talk and reflection.” He said, “We are here for you and taking care of you.” He shared that the chaplains are hosting a paint night, monthly fraternity nights and team retreats in Oct..  

One student-athlete attendee had a note for the event in the future, expressing, “I wish the coaches would have required freshmen and transfers to attend.”  

Another student-athlete commented, “I love this event every year!”  

The cookout was a success with great bonding time for the students as they gear up for an exciting new athletic season.