Seven Seniors Commit to Continuing Athletic Careers at Collegiate Level

The Office of Athletics, along with family, faculty, teammates, coaches and friends, recently celebrated seven seniors who committed to continuing their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level next year.

Gavin Angelillo will be attending and playing baseball at the University of Lynchburg. Varsity Baseball Coach Joey Seal talked about how Gavin's intangible qualities set him apart. "In baseball, you have to be able to be a fierce competitor, but you also have to love the game," said Coach Seal. "We’re approaching game 20 now, all in a really short period of time, and if you don’t have fun, the failures that come with this sport will really wear you down. Gavin really exudes that joy for baseball. He plays with the same energy and excitement he had as a ten-year-old, and that’s a special thing. Carrying that joy with him is part of what makes him so successful."

Vann Baggett will be attending and playing football at Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Varsity Football Coach Mike Biehl emphasized how challenging the quarterback position can be and how Vann remains steadfast under pressure. "When you play quarterback, everyone's watching every move and every decision," said Coach Biehl. "When things go well, you get a lot of praise. When things go wrong, you take all of the criticism. You have to keep your emotions in check and keep pushing forward. What sets Vann apart is that his composure isn't just something he shows on the field, that’s who he is as a person. That kind of steadiness is a part of his character, and he carries it with him in everything he does.”

Hannah Blasdell will be attending and continuing her equestrian career at Berry College. Hannah's first riding instructor, Associate Director of College Counseling Karen Del Vecchio, spoke on behalf of her current coach, Peg Seals. "Hannah is a very hardworking and accomplished rider," wrote Coach Seals. "In a very short time, she has qualified, competed and won at some of the largest and most prestigious horse shows in the country. Hannah is dedicated and loves the animals, and I know that she will be successful in her NCEA endeavors."

Alex Eisenhart will be attending and playing lacrosse at Virginia Wesleyan University. Co-Director of Athletics and Varsity Boys' Lacrosse Coach T.W. Johnson '92 reflected on the years he's spent getting to know Alex and his family, and the lasting impact Alex has had on the lacrosse program. "Alex has been a joy to coach, going all the way back to Middle School," said Coach Johnson. "Our program has enjoyed some success over the years, and it’s because of people like Alex, who put in countless hours behind the scenes, doing the little things that most people don’t see. He’s always been committed to our offseason program and shows up more often than not, even while playing three sports throughout high school. I’m just so thrilled that he’s getting an opportunity to compete at the next level in a very competitive conference."

Bronson Grigg will be attending and playing football at SUNY Maritime College. Coach Biehl described Bronson as focused and resilient, no matter the challenges he faces. "Bronson is the kind of guy who doesn’t let circumstances shake him," said Coach Biehl. "No matter what’s going on around him, he’s going to figure out a way to get through it, around it or past it–whatever it takes to succeed. That’s what makes him different. A lot of people his age tend to focus on the negatives, but Bronson is the opposite. He sees the positives and keeps moving forward. I can’t wait to see what he does at the next level. I know he’s going to be successful."

Haley Price will be attending and playing lacrosse at Sewanee: The University of the South. Varsity Girls' Lacrosse Coach Connor Mathews praised Haley not just for her athletic talent, but also for the leadership and positivity she brings to the team. "I can’t say enough good things about Haley," said Coach Mathews. "She’s hardworking, driven and leads completely by example. If you need to know what to do, the younger girls will tell you, look to Haley. She continues to show her passion and commitment, and it’s a huge relief that her lacrosse career is not ending here. Her sister, Marlin, just got SAA Offensive Player of the Year at Sewanee, and they are not even ready for Price number two. I could not be more proud of Haley."

George Taylor will be attending and playing lacrosse at Virginia Wesleyan University. Coach Johnson commended George for his exceptional character and commitment to the program. "George has been absolutely outstanding and a true example for our younger players of what it means to be a great teammate," said Coach Johnson. "He gives 100% effort all of the time, never complains and is always working to improve his game. He represented the program in a positive and professional manner at all times, no matter the setting. All of those qualities will be incredibly valuable to Virginia Wesleyan in the fall, and I’m excited for George to be teammates again with his older brother, Jack.”

The Class of 2025 has 10 seniors who will be continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level. Howard Casterlow '25, Malli Groves '25 and Marin McGowan' 25 committed to continuing their athletic pursuits at Division I schools during a signing ceremony in November.