The Sidelines

The 2026 RMAC Softball Tournament, hosted by Colorado Christian University, is officially under way. As the only two seniors for the Cougars this year, Leah Garcia and Arriana Wright played their part in guiding their program to a historic 47-game win streak. While their stories to becoming two standout seniors for the Cougars differ in many ways, both Leah and Arriana credit their success to the culture that Head Coach, Larry Hays, has built, which seamlessly integrates their Christian beliefs into the sport they love and the career paths they have prepared for through their academic journeys. From their "Pitch Perfect" bus rides to post-practice verses, Leah and Arriana will leave a legacy on the CCU program for years to come. Tune in to celebrate these two seniors, and the Cougars' historic season, as they prepare to take the field for the 2026 RMAC Softball Tournament.

Caitlyn and Cali Cole were practically born into the game of softball. With their mom as their coach growing up in California, the Cole sisters knew that softball was their passion, and the path they both wanted to pursue in college. When Caitlyn committed to play at CSU Pueblo, Cali wasn't far behind, helping the ThunderWolves build the foundation for the historic 2026 season they have had. With the support and guidance of head coach, Bianca Duran, the ThunderWolves earned their first program home victory against a nationally ranked opponent in CCU this year, hoping to bring that momentum into the RMAC Softball Tournament this weekend. Tune in to learn more about the Cole sisters' special bond with their softball family at CSU Pueblo, and celebrate Caitlyn's senior season in the RMAC.

As the RMAC gears up for its last championship weekend of the 2025-2026 academic year, The Sidelines highlights an inspiring comeback story that has served as one of the foundations for the UCCS baseball team's record breaking season. Gerrit Erickson, senior pitcher for the Mountain Lions, faced a similar frustration to many baseball pitchers when doctors couldn't quite identify the pain he was having in his throwing elbow. After a doctor with the Colorado Rockies finally diagnosed his UCL tear, Gerrit was told on his 21st birthday that he would need Tommy John surgery. Despite the grueling process that was ahead, Gerrit leaned on positive people around him, including his girlfriend, family, coaches and teammates, eventually making his way back to the mound and earning the RMAC's Pitcher of the Week honor not once, but twice this season. Tune in to Episode 74 to learn how Gerrit has fully embodied the spirit of being a Division II student-athlete, and how the UCCS baseball team, under the leadership of Coach Dave Hajek, plans to continue their momentum into the RMAC Tournament next weekend.

The wait is over for the 2026 RMAC Women's Lacrosse Tournament! To set the stage for the semifinal matchup between Colorado Mesa University and Regis University, guest host, Andrew Regan sits down with two of the Rangers' star seniors, Noemi Ramirez and Shea Murphy. Andrew, who was featured on his own episode of The Sidelines earlier this year, takes the reins for Episode 73, showing off a few of the skills he's been developing through his time as a Global Inclusive Intern at the RMAC office. Tune in to learn more about the Rangers' sustained conference and national success for the past 20 seasons under the guidance of Coach Sarah Kellner, and how this year's senior class plans to bring home yet another RMAC crown.

Colorado Mesa senior and men's javelin school record holder, Izaak Siefken, has undoubtedly made the most of his collegiate career, even though it hasn't looked exactly how he imagined. From a young age, the Broomfield, Colorado native knew that baseball was a passion that could open the door for a Division I college journey. After spending two years as a pitcher for the University of Illinois, Izaak began to face mental blocks in his game, which were only fueled by an early career injury. Throughout the ups and downs of baseball, Izaak's love for training and general throwing mechanics, along with his faith and perseverance, led him to the Colorado Mesa track and field team, where he now enters the 2026 RMAC Outdoor Track and Field Championship as the No. 1 javelin thrower in the conference, and No. 10 thrower in the country. Izaak's story is proof that being a college athlete doesn't always follow a linear path, but rather teaches you to find the good in every opportunity to connect with teammates, try new skills and compete to the best of your ability. Join The Sidelines in celebrating Izaak's incredible accomplishments, while looking ahead to an exciting RMAC Outdoor Track and Field Championship this weekend in Pueblo.

Under the guidance of Coach Brad Lavoie, the Westminster men's lacrosse program has made their mark on the 2026 regular season. Throughout the next week, the Griffins, having recently defeated RMAC foe, Colorado Mesa, look to capitalize on the culture of success that has been building in the program for years. In Episode 71, Coach Lavoie explains the importance of servant leadership on his team, which has fostered selfless competitors who approach each game with an energy and passion that's difficult to beat. As men's lacrosse continues to grow in the west, it's critical to have coaches, like Coach Lavoie, who capitalize on the versatility and uniqueness of the sport of lacrosse, recruiting well-rounded young men who prioritize academics, character and professional journeys beyond the game. Tune in this Saturday as the Griffins take on the Northwest Nazarene Nighthawks in their last outing before the highly anticipated 2026 RMAC Men's Lacrosse Tournament.

The 2026 RMAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships are heading to Pueblo, Colorado's ThunderBowl, April 24-26. Senior, Helen Braybrook, will race at her home track for her last RMAC Championship, looking ahead to continued success at a national stage. Braybrook, an indoor national champion in the 800m and DMR, chases a national outdoor title this year, with plans to continue her running career professionally, post college. A native of the United Kingdom, Helen didn't necessarily start her collegiate career as the RMAC standout she is today, but rather leaned on the guidance of Coach Matt Morris to develop her talents in both the 800m and 1500m races. Tune in to hear Helen share two recent accolades she claims as her most proud collegiate accomplishments, and help the RMAC prepare for the highly anticipated Outdoor Track and Field Championships in just two weeks.

RMAC spring championships are right around the corner! To prepare for the 2026 RMAC Golf Championships in Boulder City, Nevada, Episode 69 highlights Neige Dunn, a junior representing the MSU Denver women's golf program. Originally from Calgary, Alberta, Neige is a true champion of the Division II student-athlete experience and has fully bought in to the unique opportunities she's been afforded through MSU Denver's SAAC. In today's episode, Neige explains how she truly became a new person after her experience representing the RMAC at the 2025 NCAA Student-Athlete Leadership Forum, and how she continues to apply her leadership and personal skills to her team and campus. Tune in to learn more about Neige's commitment to leading with kindness and serving those around her as the RMAC prepares to celebrate her and the rest of the RMAC Golf Championship field in a few weeks.

To kick off the NCAA DII Women's Basketball Tournament, The Sidelines sits down with three-time RMAC Women's Basketball Player of the Year, and the RMAC's career scoring and rebound record holder, Olivia Reed Thyne. The foundation of Olivia's storied career at Colorado Mesa began in La Junta, Colorado, where her dad coached men's basketball at Otero Junior College, before taking his career to Chadron State and the University of Northern Colorado. Throughout her basketball journey, Olivia learned the importance of separating her identity from the sport she loved, allowing her to play freely and perform in high pressure situations and games. Olivia and her teammates take the court for the first round of the NCAA DII Women's Basketball Tournament against Lubbock Christian, chasing a national championship ring to add to their list of accomplishments. Join The Sidelines in celebrating Olivia's legacy as not only one of the most decorated women's basketball players the RMAC has ever seen, but a teammate and leader that has fully made her mark on her community and program.

The RMAC celebrates the beginning of the 2026 Men's Basketball Tournament with three-time RMAC Player of the Week, Stewart Erhart of Fort Lewis College. As one of just two players on the Skyhawks roster when head coach, Jordan Mast, was hired, Stewart demonstrated loyalty and trust to a historically successful program, which has now started a new generation of talent and leadership. Before his time at Fort Lewis, Stewart was a two-time Gatorade Boys Basketball Player of the Year from Alaska, proudly representing his family and Native American roots and introducing him to the opportunity to carry on his career at Fort Lewis. Episode 67 highlights Stewart's Native American culture and the sense of community he's felt during his time at Fort Lewis, which ties directly to the institution's mission of serving Indigenous students. Tune in tonight at 6:00pm MT as the Skyhawks take on the Adams State Grizzlies in the RMAC Men's Basketball Tournament quarterfinals.

It's officially tournament week for RMAC basketball! To kick off an exciting night of quarterfinal matchups, The Sidelines: Episode 66 catches up with graduate student, Elaina Watson, and sophomore, Jada Price, of the Adams State Grizzlies. Beyond their shared love for basketball, Elaina and Jada share journeys filled with injuries and health challenges that easily could have ended their basketball careers. As discussed in Episode 66, however, both of them used these roadblocks as motivators to push beyond what even doctors thought was feasible, while leaning on their incredible support systems, teammates and Coach Mario. Tune in for an inspiring episode that puts basketball into perspective and sets the stage for a determined Adams State women's basketball team to take the court tonight against the MSU Denver Roadrunners.

The stage is set for the 2026 RMAC Indoor Track and Field Championships in Gunnison, CO. The highly anticipated championships will not only feature the highest collegiate indoor track in the world, but also three of the nation's top 20 Division II track and field programs this year. Episode 65 highlights Allison Beasley, an All-American distance and steeplechase student-athlete from Western Colorado, as she shares what it means to her and her teammates to get to bring the RMAC Championships to their home facility. As she wraps up her senior season this spring, Allison reflects on the supportive running community she's been surrounded with her entire life, while also looking forward to the software engineering position she has lined up after graduation. Tune in to help celebrate Allison's storied career at Western Colorado, and prepare for a weekend of the nation's best track and field programs battling for the conference crown.

Division II's oldest football rivalry, the Black Hills Brawl, takes the ice this Saturday, February 21, as the Rapid City Rush face off with the Worcester Railers for a three-game home series in Rapid City, SD. The Rapid City Rush, now led by President Jared Reid and Head Coach, Dave Smith, has offered a consistent source of entertainment and camaraderie to the Black Hills sports community for the past 18 years. This year, the local ECHL professional squad takes their community contributions a step further, by celebrating the rivalry of Black Hills State and South Dakota Mines. In Episode 64, Coach Smith joins Black Hills State athletics director, Mark Nore, and South Dakota Mines athletics director, David Crum, to share the importance of the longstanding traditions and competitiveness this rivalry has sparked in the region for decades. Following the game Saturday, the Rapid City Rush will be auctioning off the South Dakota Mines and Black Hills State special jerseys, worn by the players, further supporting both athletics departments and capturing the power of sport through community. Purchase your tickets for Saturday's 7:05pm puck drop at rapidcityrush.com.

The RMAC's next championship event, the 2026 RMAC Swimming and Diving Championships, highlights one of the most dominate swimming and diving programs in the country in Colorado Mesa. One of the Mavericks' seniors, Ryan Campbell, joins Episode 63 to offer some insight into the impressive sport of diving. Ryan, a repeat RMAC Diver of the Week, and last year's RMAC Diver of the Year, accredits much of his success to the development he gained through junior college, explaining that oftentimes, competing at a high level in Division II doesn't always occur on a linear path. Ending his career at Colorado Mesa has shown Ryan what a true college community looks like, and has encouraged him to take each dive and each opportunity to compete as a privilege. As Ryan sets his sights on a National Championship this season, the RMAC is excited to celebrate him, and the rest of the competitors, during their stop at the 2026 RMAC Swimming and Diving Championships next week in Grand Junction.

The RMAC is thrilled to host its third RMAC Women's Wrestling Championships in Colorado Springs at the United States Air Force Academy. To set the stage for a highly competitive championship, Episode 62 features Julia Richey of Simon Fraser University. The senior for the Red Leafs is the RMAC's defending conference champion at 207, and has been a dominate presence in the league this season, bringing home an RMAC Women's Wrestler of the Week title in late November. Off the mat, Julia has capitalized on her personal brand as a student-athlete, entering a number of NIL partnerships and promoting her platform as a personal trainer. Julia recognizes that being a collegiate athlete has not only made her a better student, but has set her up to overcome any obstacle life may present after her time at SFU. Join The Sidelines in preparing for the excitement of Julia's season ahead, including her stop at the 2026 RMAC Women's Wrestling Championships this Saturday, January 31.

To continue The Sidelines' celebration of the 2025-26 RMAC wrestling season, Episode 61 features Chadron State men's wrestling head coach, Brett Hunter. Coach Hunter is in his 14th season coaching the Eagles, with his Chadron roots extending back to his time as a men's wrestling student-athlete in the program. Chadron's strong sense of community has significantly impacted Coach Hunter's journey, both on the wrestling mat, and throughout his adult life. This same community, including a crew of current and former Chadron State wrestlers, helped support him to the finish line of a 100-mile race in the Black Hills of South Dakota this past summer. In Episode 61, Coach Hunter describes the incredible physical and mental toll that comes with training for and executing a 100-mile race, while also sharing the significant lessons he took from the experience and applied to his coaching. Coming off a recent dual win, the Eagles eagerly look towards the end of the RMAC wrestling season, with hopes of securing the 2025-26 regular season title.

As the 2026 RMAC wrestling season continues to develop, The Sidelines' 60th episode highlights Aaden Valdez, senior wrestler for Adams State. Collegiate athletics naturally pose challenges for any student-athlete, however, Aaden has endured unique adversity after a firework accident in high school caused him to lose his left eye and four fingers on his left hand. Wrestling soon turned from a sport he casually competed in throughout high school to an avenue for Aaden to prove his tenacity and positivity to everyone around him. As a Division II All-American and this week's RMAC Men's Wrestler of the Week, Aaden continues to showcase his determination on the mat, as well as his commitment to his teammates in life beyond wrestling. Tune in to help the RMAC celebrate Aaden's journey and his plans to continue his involvement at Adams State and improve the lives of future wrestlers well beyond his career as a Grizzly.

The RMAC has officially added its 69th National Title and first ever Volleyball National Championship Title, courtesy of the MSU Denver Roadrunners. Today's episode features sophomore middle and Texas native, Alyssa Boyte, member of the NCAA Division II All-Tournament team, South Central Region Middle Blocker of the Year, and RMAC Defensive Player of the Year, as she recaps her team's NCAA tournament experience. As the first RMAC team to make a National Volleyball Title appearance since 2005, MSU Denver quickly made their presence known in Sioux Falls, playing with what Alyssa referred to as an overwhelming sense of freedom. Alyssa credits much of the team's success and confidence to what they call their "line of belief," which offered a clear roadmap to achieving the program's first National Championship Title. Alyssa's humility, maturity and leadership as an underclassman is extremely impressive, and reflects the culture of the MSU Denver program that will continue to foster success for years to come. Join the RMAC in celebrating and congratulating the MSU Denver Roadrunners and Coach Jenny Glenn for earning the 2025 NCAA Division II Volleyball National Championship Title.

Following the 2025 RMAC Volleyball Tournament, the 2025 NCAA Division II volleyball bracket has been set, with five RMAC schools advancing to the tournament. UCCS, in particular, sees its first NCAA tournament appearance since 2007, following one of the most historic seasons for the program. Today's episode features two key components of the program's success, head coach, Tara Hittle, and senior libero, Mackenzie Ransom. This season, Coach Hittle reached her 50th career win at UCCS, while Mackenzie and her teammates earned the most season wins in program history. The road to this season hasn't been easy, however, as both Coach Hittle and Mackenzie have gone through three years of growing pains and culture change in the program. As an Arizona native, Mackenzie is grateful to have seen the hard work she and her teammates have dedicated finally paying off, while Coach Hittle credits her amazing support staff and administration for constantly believing in the program. Be sure to catch the No. 2 seeded Mountain Lions face the No. 7 seed, Colorado School of Mines, in a first round conference matchup at the regional tournament in Denver on December 4.

With the 2025 RMAC volleyball regular season coming to a close, The Sidelines: Episode 57 features starting senior libero for Black Hills State, Ellie Thomas. Originally from Gillette, Wyoming, Ellie accumulated a number of high school volleyball accolades, including Wyoming's 4A Defensive Player of the Year, and spent her first collegiate years playing at Northwest College. This year, Ellie earned the RMAC's Week 7 Defensive Player of the Week and continues to lead the league in total digs and digs per set. While Ellie's story is impressively marked by volleyball accomplishments, she also comes from a long line of firefighters in her family, and has continued that tradition, serving as a part-time firefighter during her summers. Ellie plans to continue her path in firefighting after her college career concludes, and looks forward to maintaining a sense of camaraderie and teamwork beyond the volleyball court.

The 2025 RMAC Men's Soccer Tournament is finally here. To celebrate, The Sidelines: Episode 56 catches up with members of the RMAC's pre-season favorites and No. 1 seed heading into the RMAC tournament, Rory Scott and Nick Walker of UCCS. Rory, an international student-athlete from Australia, and Nick, an out-of-state student-athlete originally from Las Vegas, both had to work through the uncertainty and adjustment of joining a new college team. Luckily, they both found an immediate brotherhood and sense of belonging in the Mountain Lion family, and now, as seniors, get to play important leadership roles in the lives of their teammates. In today's episode, Rory and Nick talk about about their team's pre-conference battles and how their regular season success reflects the passionate commitment from their coaches and teammates to constantly improve and wear the No. 1 title with great honor and confidence. Purchase your tickets, or RMAC Network pass, to watch the Mountain Lions and the rest of the competitive field in the 2025 RMAC Men's Soccer Tournament, starting this Sunday, November 9.

While not entirely unique to Division II, the sport of triathlon is offered as part of just two RMAC athletics departments, including Colorado Mesa and Black Hills State. With USA Triathlon's NCAA National Championships approaching this weekend for both squads, The Sidelines had the honor of catching up with Hannah Longmire, freshman triathlete for BHSU. Hannah, originally from Iowa, competes as a para-athlete for USA Triathlon's PTS3 category. Her goal is to not only compete, but medal at the 2028 Paralympics in LA, and continue her athletic career well beyond college. In today's episode, Hannah shares her keys to achieving incredible athletic milestones at such a young age, including her ability to be coachable, having a motivated mindset, and listening to her body in a sport where recovery and rehab are essential. The RMAC is proud to highlight our institutions' unique triathlon programs and celebrate student-athletes, like Hannah, who boldly make their mark on Division II.

As the 2025 RMAC soccer regular season reaches its final stretch, The Sidelines is honored to highlight Fatso Williams, a graduate student on the Adams State women's soccer team. After a rather challenging upbringing in Deming, New Mexico, the Williams family decided to move to Alamogordo and empower Fatso to chase her soccer dreams. Her high school career was filled with broken records and Division I offers, but was halted by her first ACL tear at the beginning of her senior year. Despite the injury, University of New Mexico welcomed Fatso to their women's soccer squad, where she continued to play for the next four years. Her injury journey unfortunately continued to define her young college career, as she endured three total knee surgeries. Towards the end of her time at UNM, however, Fatso embraced the opportunity of simply being a college athlete and turned her mindset from frustration to gratitude. Now, wrapping up her eligibility as an MBA student at Adams State, Fatso has helped her team reach new heights for the program, and hopes to apply her injury story to helping future student-athletes find their identity and celebrate their small wins.

This semester, the RMAC has had the honor of partnering with Regis University's Global Inclusive Program, welcoming Andrew Regan to the RMAC office as a fall intern. Andrew, now a third year student in the Global Inclusive Program, brings a passion for broadcasting and student-athlete storytelling to his work, building on the foundation of his Communications and Advocacy major and his past internship experience with Judge Larson in Boulder. Andrew also works with Regis University's men's basketball program as a student assistant, combining his love for basketball with his passion for coaching and serving student-athletes. Andrew's positive outlook on life and appreciation for others is truly inspiring, and the RMAC office is extremely proud to have Andrew as a part of our staff and to celebrate the impactful work of our member institutions beyond athletics.

To celebrate World Mental Health Day, Alana Howard, senior cross country runner for South Dakota Mines, joins The Sidelines for a special episode. Recognized on October 10, World Mental Health Day offers an opportunity to celebrate global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma. It also creates a perfect opportunity for the RMAC to highlight incredible student-athletes, like Alana, who serve as leaders on their campus in prioritizing mental health and creating a safe space for their peers to feel supported. Alana serves as the South Dakota Mines SAAC president, and recently joined an organization called NDUR for Athletes as a campus Game Changer to provide further access to mental health resources for student-athletes. Tune in to Episode 52 to learn more about Alana's passion to leave a legacy of mental health support at her school, and her impressive plans to pursue a career in agricultural engineering next year. Happy World Mental Health Day from the RMAC!

In recognition of Fall Officials' Appreciation Week, sponsored by the Division II Conference Commissioners Association and the Division II Athletics Directors Association, today's episode highlights Jacob Loper, an RMAC soccer referee and Colorado Christian men's soccer alum. After conversations with his coach towards the end of his collegiate career and consideration of life after the game, Jacob decided to pursue a path in officiating, serving as a great success story for the NCAA's Player to Referee program. Jacob attributes much of his success as a high-level referee to his understanding of the game from an athlete's perspective, as well as his empathy for what student-athletes go through, both on and off the field.The RMAC is incredibly proud to have Jacob as part of its soccer officiating crew, and is extremely grateful for the work of all fall officials across the league. The RMAC's high level of competitiveness and integrity would not exist without our tremendous officials and officiating coordinators . Thank you for your service!

The 2025 RMAC Cross Country Championships in Colorado Springs are officially one month out. To celebrate, Episode 50 features Colorado School of Mines All-American, Jeremiah Vaille. Having completed his undergraduate and graduate degrees in civil engineering, and currently pursuing a master's in engineering and technology management, Jeremiah is the epitome of a successful and driven Division II student-athlete. On top of all his incredible accolades, Jeremiah recently represented the United States at the World University Games in Italy and finished fourth in the ski mountaineering vertical race. His humility and passion for supporting others shines through the way he speaks about his teammates and his future career path. The RMAC looks forward to celebrating Jeremiah and the rest of the league's incredible cross country student-athletes at the 2025 Cross Country Championships October 25.

After putting the Colorado School of Mines football program on the national map in the early 2000s, Coach Bob Stitt is back at the helm for the Orediggers, having taken his coaching career around the country for the past 11 years. Coach Stitt, who was inducted into the Mines Athletics Hall of Fame in 2021, joined the Orediggers again earlier this year, making it a point to not only sit down with each of his new players one-on-one, but to truly get to know them and support them beyond the football field. His passion for coaching and watching players reach their full potential is very evident throughout Episode 49, as is his commitment to family and loved ones who've supported him through the highs and lows of coaching college football. Behind the leadership of Coach Stitt, the Orediggers will take the field for their home opener this Saturday at noon against Washburn.

The Sidelines is back with season two, kicking off the new academic year with CSU Pueblo quarterback, Roman Fuller. As a Texas native and coach's son, football has truly been engraved in Roman's life. His love for the game began even before he could play in early elementary school, and he continues to live out his passion as a leader, both on and off the field for the Pack. In today's episode, Roman highlights a few keys to the ThunderWolves' success and shares his appreciation for Coach Vigil and the group of guys he gets to call teammates. Tune in to the RMAC Network tonight at 6:00 pm MT to watch Roman and the ThunderWolves in their out-of-conference matchup against Fort Hays State.

The Sidelines is back with a special episode, highlighting one of the RMAC's Class of 2025 Hall of Fame inductees, Lorie Moreno Roch. Starting her career at Adams State, Lorie's journey to becoming Western Colorado's first female national champion had many twists and turns, including a hip injury that forced her to stop running for over two years. With the help of supportive coaches and teammates, including RMAC Hall of Famer and Lorie's eventual husband, Steve Roch, Lorie pushed the boundaries of what was, at the time, the early stages of college athletics for women. After college, Lorie spent time in law school before deciding to reconnect with running in the coaching realm, both at Western Colorado and the University of Colorado. Today, Lorie continues to appreciate all that running has given her, including a community of over 40 people who will be in attendance at tonight's RMAC Hall of Fame and Awards Banquet. Congratulations to Lorie Moreno Roch and the rest of the RMAC's Class of 2025 Hall of Fame.

The Sidelines: Episode 46 helps the league celebrate one of the most impactful leaders the RMAC, and collegiate athletic administration across the nation, have come to know. RMAC Commissioner, Chris Graham, wraps up his 11-year service to the league this week, while looking forward to his new position as the commissioner for Division II's Sunshine State Conference. In today's episode, Commissioner Graham reflects on the goals he set for himself early in his career, highlights the challenges he faced as a commissioner through a global pandemic, and shares the legacy he hopes to leave behind. On behalf of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, I would like to thank Commissioner Graham for empowering student-athletes, coaches and administrators to become the very best version of themselves. Stay elevated, Commissioner Graham!

To set the stage for the NCAA Regional Baseball Tournament matchup between Colorado Mesa and MSU Denver, and to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, The Sidelines sits down with Kennedy Hara, junior infielder for the Mavericks. Hara, a Hawaiian native, has been surrounded by the game of baseball from a young age, constantly looking up to and competing with his older brothers. In Episode 45, Kennedy shares how his background and upbringing have encouraged him to show respect for others and has inspired him to seek continuous improvement, both on and off the field. Behind the leadership of Hara and the Mavericks' core group of seniors, Colorado Mesa hopes to leave their mark on the 2025 NCAA postseason, continuing to represent RMAC baseball at the highest level.

To celebrate Day 1 of the 2025 RMAC Baseball Tournament, The Sidelines caught up with Regis University's senior standout, Adam Paniagua. The impressive RMAC catcher was awarded Division II's National Hitter of the Week honor in mid-March and now holds Regis's single season home run record. On top of these incredible accolades, Adam was named the 2025 RMAC Player of the Year and earned his way to the midseason watch list for the Golden Spikes award, which recognizes the best amateur baseball player in the country. While baseball will inevitably take him far in his next chapter, Adam emphasizes the importance of the brotherhood him and his teammates have built, along with the familial relationships he prioritizes beyond the field. As Adam enters his last RMAC tournament, the league wishes him and the entire tournament field a safe and healthy week of championship baseball.

The 2025 RMAC Softball Tournament is in full swing! To celebrate, The Sidelines: Episode 43 features Camryn Quilling, senior outfielder for the Colorado Christian Cougars. After starting her collegiate career as a junior college All-American, Camryn quickly found herself in Larry Hays' competitive program at CCU. Throughout her career, Camryn has learned to reframe her mindset from being consumed by the stats and mental challenges of softball, to playing like a kid and serving as a role model to younger players on her team. Before graduating and moving on to her master's degree at Point Loma Nazarene in a few months, Camryn hopes to cap off her impressive career with a successful RMAC tournament and post-season play, all while simply having fun and enjoying the game she loves.

Heading into the 2025 RMAC Softball Tournament this week, The Sidelines highlights pitcher Laci Peskey and catcher Desi Hernandez of Black Hills State. Between Laci's five RMAC Pitcher of the Week honors and Desi's impressive .360 batting average this year, this dynamic duo has helped lead the BHSU softball squad to their first RMAC tournament appearance in program history. In Episode 42, Laci and Desi share how their similar Texas upbringings have impacted the tight bond they share, and how their strong team culture and positive leadership from Coach Englehorn has created a true softball family. Be sure to get your tickets or tune in on the RMAC Network to witness Laci, Desi and the BHSU softball team's historic week in Lakewood.

To kick off the 2025 RMAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships this weekend, The Sidelines: Episode 41 highlights New Mexico Highlands senior jumper, Chisom Obioha. Coming off a second place finish in the long jump at indoor championships, Chisom plans to carry on her confidence and positive mindset to hit a personal best this weekend. As a British Columbia native, Chisom has always found the camaraderie and technical challenges of track and field to be a gift that fuels her in life. Chisom will step on the runway for the last time at an RMAC championship this weekend, with faith in herself and excitement for a future beyond athletics. The league is excited to cheer on Chisom and the rest of the student-athletes at the 2025 RMAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships.

It's semifinal day for the 2025 PBC Rocky Mountain Division Men's Lacrosse Tournament! To kick off an exciting weekend, Episode 40 highlights juniors, Justin Egan and Luke Sillstrop, along with sophomore Daxton Jensen of the Westminster men's lacrosse team. Tune in to hear how this trio of Griffins are grateful for their opportunity to grow Division II lacrosse in the west, and are incredibly proud of the brotherhood their team has built as the foundation for their success. Led by Coach Joe Kerwin, Justin, Luke and Daxton plan to head into today's matchup against the Concordia Golden Eagles with a high level of focus, purpose and gratitude.

Coming off an impressive 2024-25 indoor track season, Zachary Gaumont sits down with The Sidelines to share his experience as a dual-sport athlete at Fort Lewis College. An Arizona native, Zach was originally recruited to play football and quickly found himself as part of the Skyhawks track and field team as an impactful sprinter. Zach took home the gold in the indoor 60m dash this year, and looks to build on that success next weekend at the 2025 RMAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships. Tune in to hear how Zach's dedication and determination in overcoming an injury have led to his success early in his career, and how he hopes to one day represent Fort Lewis sprints on a national stage.

The 2025 RMAC Women's Lacrosse Championship begins in two weeks. To set the stage for a highly-anticipated conference tournament, Regis University twin sisters, Brigit and Becky Goetsch, join The Sidelines for Episode 38. Originally from Maple Grove, Minnesota, Brigit and Becky were raised in a hockey and lacrosse culture. After spending their first year in college apart, the Goetsch sisters reunited at Regis and have been a dominant force for the nationally recognized Rangers women's lacrosse program ever since. Before heading into their exciting post-undergraduate paths next year, Brigit and Becky hope to lead their team to continued post-season success and enjoy each moment competing together one last year as a dynamic duo.

In honor of the 2025 Spring Officials' Appreciation Week, sponsored by the Division II Conference Commissioners Association and the Division II Athletics Directors Association, The Sidelines: Episode 37 highlights the RMAC's track and field officiating coordinator, Susan Babcock. A native of Tipton, Kansas, Susan has turned her passion for running into a role that elevates the student-athlete experience and helps competitors develop throughout their careers. She is a national advocate for track and field officials, having recently worked as a starter for the Division II Indoor National Track and Field Championships in Indianapolis. The RMAC is grateful for Susan's work in coordinating the league's team of high-level officials to serve our student-athletes at RMAC championships. The conference looks forward to working with Susan and her team in a little over two weeks to host an exciting 2025 RMAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships.

The RMAC continues to prepare for its 2025 Golf Championships in Boulder City, Nevada by catching up with Freya Constable, junior golfer at CSU Pueblo. Freya, a native of Scotland, has been a member of back-to-back conference champion teams and has been honored as an RMAC Player of the Week this spring season. In her spare time, Freya uses her math major to tutor other CSUP students, while also exploring outdoor activities across Colorado. Tune in to learn about Freya's impressive approach to managing the mental challenges associated with golf, and how the ThunderWolves plan to play their way to conference and post-season success.

The Sidelines: Episode 35 kicks off the conference's golf segment by celebrating the reigning Division II Men's Golf National Champions, the Colorado Christian Cougars. This episode sits down with head coach, Mark Hull, and senior, Adam Duncan, who led the team to incredible heights last season. Coach Hull and Adam continue to reflect on the success of the 2024 season and emphasize their excitement for their 2025 squad. Tune in, as the RMAC prepares to host the 2025 RMAC Golf Championships in a little over three weeks, to learn about the firm foundation Colorado Christian men's golf has established, and how they compete for a purpose beyond the game.

In honor of Women's History Month, The Sidelines: Episode 34 had the incredible opportunity to sit down with the RMAC's trio of female athletics directors, Joan McDermott, Katelyn Smith and Shanna Halalilo. This episode offers inspiration to not only myself, but to future women leaders in sports, as we hear about each of our guest's backgrounds and advice to breaking barriers and overcoming challenges associated with professional development. Joan brings decades of leadership experience to her role at Colorado Mesa, while Shanna and Katelyn continue to develop their respective departments at New Mexico Highlands and Adams State as two of the younger ADs in the country. Tune in to this special episode to help the RMAC celebrate past, present and future women leaders in our league and the greater collegiate athletics landscape.

To kick off the 2025 RMAC Basketball Tournaments, and to wrap up the league's celebration of Black History Month, The Sidelines had the incredible opportunity to speak with Tommie Johnson, head coach for the CSU Pueblo women's basketball team. In his sixth season as head coach for the Thunderwolves, Tommie focuses on building a team of grace, development and leadership, both on and off the court. Tommie takes pride in the role he serves in the lives of the young women on his team, while also prioritizing his personal relationships with his family. The Pack head into the RMAC Tournament ranked No. 5 in the conference, and are set to take on No. 4 Black Hills State tonight at 6:00pm. Tune in to today's episode and head to the RMAC Network to watch not only Tommie's confident squad, but the rest of the quarterfinal field for the 2025 RMAC Basketball Tournaments!

The 2025 RMAC Indoor Track and Field Championships are here, and The Sidelines: Episode 32 highlights someone who has not only made a significant impact on my life, but has also made her mark on the successful UCCS Track and Field program. Victoria Farinas, a senior sprinter for the Mountain Lions, heads into this weekend with faith in herself and her teammates to perform at their best on their home track. Victoria also shares the significance of her family history and explains how her move from Florida to Colorado has reminded her of the importance in standing firm in who she is. The unbreakable bond Victoria has built with her Mountain Lion family prepares her to confidently take the track for her last RMAC Indoor Track and Field Championships, and the RMAC is ready to cheer on her and her competitors.

The Sidelines: Episode 31 prepares for the 2025 RMAC Men's Basketball Tournament, and celebrates Black History Month, by featuring Quave Propst-Allison of MSU Denver. Quave, a junior from North Carolina, made an immediate impact on his program his freshman year as a starter, and continues to excel on the court. He accredits much of his early success to his father and family, and continues to honor them both on and off the court. Tune in to hear what Black History Month means to Quave and his teammates, and how the MSU Denver Roadrunners plan to head into the RMAC postseason with passion and determination to take home the conference title.

The 2025 RMAC Indoor Track and Field Championships are just over a week away. In honor of this highly anticipated weekend, The Sidelines: Episode 30 sits down with Braden Anderson of Black Hills State to talk about his unique journey to competing as a Yellow Jacket. After taking a two year break from college and working full time, Braden broke the indoor school record for the 800m last season, and continues to excel on the track. Braden works over 25 hours a week at a local cabinet shop, on top of his academic and athletic demands. The RMAC is proud to celebrate Braden's unique journey and is excited to watch him and the rest of the RMAC field next weekend.

Kicking off The Sidelines basketball series is graduate student, Josephine Howery, of Colorado School of Mines. A native of Colorado Springs, Josephine has established herself as a leader both on and off the court, spearheading a nonprofit organization called Crossover for Change and supporting Colorado School of Mines' on-campus food pantry for athletes. Josephine's work in the classroom and in her community make her the epitome of a Division II athlete and it was inspiring to hear how she's used her sport to help and educate the next generation of female athletes. Tune in to hear about Josephine's plans after college, and about her incredible passion for leaving a legacy in her program.

Today marks the start of the highly anticipated 2025 RMAC Swimming and Diving Championships. Leading up to this championship week, The Sidelines had the incredible opportunity to speak with Claire McDaniel, head coach for the Colorado School of Mines men's and women's swim programs. McDaniel, a three-time RMAC Coach of the Year for both men's and women's swimming, started her impressive journey as a standout swimmer for Georgia and NCAA Woman of the Year finalist. Her background in sports nutrition and extensive coaching experience for the NCAA and Swiss National Team contribute to her passion for providing a holistic experience for her student-athletes. The RMAC is thankful for Coach McDaniel's service to our league, and wishes all programs competing in the 2025 RMAC Swimming and Diving Championships a safe and successful competition.

The Sidelines: Episode 27 continues the RMAC's swim and dive series with Colorado Mesa senior and team captain, Andrew Scoggin. Scoggin, originally from Greeley, Colorado, is no stranger to success. Preceding his participation at the U.S. Olympic Trials in the summer of 2024, Scoggin has racked up five Second Team All-America honors, four RMAC event titles, 10 All-RMAC honors and a CMU facility record. As Andrew wraps up his career this year, he looks forward to pursuing a career in medical sales and finding a new life balance after his experience as a Division II athlete. Tune in to hear from Andrew as we continue to prepare for an incredible 2025 RMAC Swimming and Diving Championship.