THE FALL CHARGE 2024: Elevating the Bison Student-Athlete Experience
Discover the Impact of Giving!
We are excited to bring you The Fall Charge once again — a unique opportunity to hear directly from the heart of Bucknell Athletics: our student-athletes. Through 25 personal letters, these incredible individuals share their journeys, backgrounds, and the goals that drive them both on and off the field.
Each letter offers a glimpse into the experiences that make Bucknell special, from the thrill of competition to the camaraderie of teammates, and the support they feel from our extended Bison family. You’ll hear about their academic and athletic challenges, their dreams for the future, and their deep gratitude for the generosity of our alumni, parents, and friends.
This initiative comes during a fall season that has been one for the books. Our Bison teams have achieved remarkable success, highlighted (so far!) by men's soccer's thrilling Patriot League Championship Game victory over Colgate at jam-packed Emmitt Field on Saturday night. Both soccer teams claimed Patriot League regular-season titles, football is still in contention for a share of the championship heading into the final week, volleyball heads into the postseason as the No. 2 seed, field hockey qualified for the postseason for the 16th year in a row, and men's water polo also competes in its conference tournament this weekend. Bison teams have already claimed seven Player of the Year, one Scholar-Athlete of the Year, and three Coach of the Year awards, with more voting still pending. It’s a reflection of the dedication, talent, and hard work of our student-athletes, as well as the strength of the Bucknell community that stands behind them.
These stories are a testament to what makes Bucknell Athletics so powerful—the dedication of our student-athletes and the unwavering support of our Bucknell Family. The Fall Charge is a celebration of everything we stand for: excellence, resilience, and community.
We invite you to explore these letters, connect with the voices of our student-athletes, and witness the life-changing impact of the Bucknell experience through their eyes. Together, we’re building something extraordinary.
Thank you for being an integral part of the Bucknell Family, and 'rayBucknell!
To demonstrate what it means to be a Bison student-athlete, we asked a member of each team to pen a letter describing their Bucknell experience thus far. We hope you will take a moment to read these first-hand accounts of what makes Bison Athletics so special.
BASEBALL: Brady Karp '25
"This year, our goal is clear: a Patriot League Championship. But reaching that goal is going to take everything we have — and more. This season, we’re driven by faith: faith in the brothers beside us, faith in our coaches, faith in the legacy of those who came before us, and faith in ourselves. This kind of faith isn’t built in a single season; it’s grown through every practice, every game, and every drop of blood, sweat, and tears that have been shed. We know that, together, we are stronger, and that bond is our foundation as we push toward a goal that’s eluded us for a decade." | READ FULL LETTER
MEN'S BASKETBALL: Elvin Edmonds IV '25
"The experience of being a student-athlete at Bucknell is something that I will never take for granted. The rigorous curriculum in the classroom and the experience on the court that Bucknell provides are some of the best in the country. Our improvements in the program over the years from gear, facilities, and technology are a result of the support from our donors and we thank you all for that." | READ FULL LETTER
WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Isabella King '25
"I have had the honor to be a member of the SAAC, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, at Bucknell. Through this leadership role, I have had the opportunity to advocate for the athletes at Bucknell and support their desire to be part of a very high academic school, as well as an extremely competitive Division I sports school. As part of SAAC, I also had the privilege of organizing and helping out in community service initiatives to give back to the local community that supports us so much." | READ FULL LETTER
FIELD HOCKEY: Hope Davis '25
"The culture of Bucknell Field Hockey is truly what separates this team from the rest. We strive to work together to accomplish our goals on the field, but also off the field, and in the classroom. I have never had such a strong support network outside of my immediate family at home. I have grown as a leader and made long-lasting friendships along the way." | READ FULL LETTER
FOOTBALL: Michael Hardyway '25
"Through my good, bad, and ugly days, the Bucknell community lifted me up. My coaches, teammates, and sports medicine staff became my family. They were there to pick me up when I couldn’t find the strength myself. From the first day, they welcomed me with open arms, supporting me in ways I can’t fully put into words. I knew then that Bucknell wasn’t just a school; it was my home." | READ FULL LETTER
MEN'S GOLF: James Robbins '26
"Ever since I first visited Bucknell, I knew that the university was home. I was enamored with the amazing views of the surrounding countryside and the beauty of the small campus, instantly falling in love with the tight-knit community that Bucknell fosters. The Bachman Center was another standout feature. With world-class facilities close to campus, the Bachman Center fits right in with the allure of the university." | READ FULL LETTER
WOMEN'S GOLF: Paige Richter '26
"Bucknell alumni have genuinely embraced our team and made my journey at Bucknell so special. In every tournament we play in, we receive texts from past and future alumni who take the time to follow us through our lengthy seasons. Our Bucknell alumni connections have followed us from Pennsylvania to Arizona, proving the strength of what it means to be a Bucknell student and alum. Without fail, the Bucknell community has shown up in extraordinary ways for their athletes, making Bucknell stand out from any other university." | READ FULL LETTER
MEN'S LACROSSE: George Talarico '25
"Throughout my time here, the one thing that stands out most is the relationships I have made with my teammates and coaches. I've found a second family in this program, one that pushes me to be better every day, celebrates my successes, and picks me up after defeats. The brotherhood we've built extends far beyond the field, creating bonds that I know will last a lifetime." | READ FULL LETTER
WOMEN'S LACROSSE: Allie Boyce '25
"As we are close to entering another exciting season, I am thrilled to share my experience with you all as your donations help us compete at our best. Most recently, generous donors like you enabled our program to have a very successful One Herd One Day 24-hour giving challenge which will directly impact our 2025 season. We are incredibly lucky to travel to Florida for our spring break in March. This is our first time traveling on spring break since the 2020 season. It will be a time of team bonding and competitive out-of-region games. The support from OHOD in 2024 has allowed us to plan a great trip, and one the team is very much looking forward to! We hope that our 2025 OHOD can also jump-start our spring break planning for 2026." | READ FULL LETTER
WOMEN'S ROWING: Kalena Gatesman '27
"I began my freshman year in the novice program, and after a ton of hard work, I was fortunate enough to be given an opportunity to be a part of the Varsity Eight come spring season. I never thought I would be competing at such a high level, but with the support and encouragement from everyone along the way, this team showed me what rowing really is." | READ FULL LETTER
MEN'S SOCCER: Aidan Lawlor '25
"This year, we have had the opportunity to meet several members of the great 1970s-era teams, who have all given us insight into what it takes to be a winner. To see men’s soccer alumni from roughly fifty years ago care so deeply about the team speaks volumes about the strong connection players have with the program. We talk a lot about leaving the jersey in a better place, and I feel a special attachment to this message because of how much the program has given me." | READ FULL LETTER
WOMEN'S SOCCER: Reese Evans '25
"As I conclude my journey as a student-athlete, I am filled with pride and gratitude for all that Bucknell Women’s Soccer has achieved during my time here. Together, we continue to build a program that not only excels on the field and in the classroom but also fosters lifelong friendships, resilience, and a sense of purpose. The achievements of three Patriot League championships and one Patriot League regular-season title are testaments to our hard work and, most importantly, to the incredible support we’ve received from our community." | READ FULL LETTER
SOFTBALL: Juliette Basso '25
"I wouldn’t trade my experience as a Bucknell student-athlete for anything. The thrill of nail-biting games, unforgettable clutch moments, our annual spring break trip, hotel fun, and team dinners have all created fond memories. Each moment as a Bison has strengthened my connection to my teammates and enriched my athletic experience in ways I’ll carry with me forever." | READ FULL LETTER
MEN'S SWIMMING & DIVING: Chris Kopac '25
"As I start my senior year I have been lucky enough to be named captain of the team. I am reminded of all the incredible leaders who preceded me, both in athletics and the classroom. I hope to write a new chapter in that legacy by continuing to lead, encourage, and motivate my teammates. Bucknell has offered me the necessary skills through both my academic and athletic experiences to fuel me with confidence that I can succeed." | READ FULL LETTER
WOMEN'S SWIMMING & DIVING: Meghan Catherwood '25
"I still remember my first practice at Bucknell and the excitement it gave me for the next four years. I loved the spirit, positive energy, and camaraderie of the team and couldn’t wait to contribute to it. I have made many amazing memories with my teammates, and my experience on the team has undoubtedly contributed to the person I am today. As I start my senior season, I am filled with gratitude for everyone who has made this journey possible for me and enthusiasm for the possibilities that lie ahead for our team." | READ FULL LETTER
MEN'S TENNIS: Amar Tahirovic '26
"During my sophomore year, I truly began to appreciate the impact of our trips and competitions. The funding we receive allows us to travel to top-notch universities, creating unforgettable experiences that strengthen our connections both on and off the court. Going on trips to California, Florida, etc., and competing against top teams is more than just the matches; they are opportunities for us to bond as a team and create lasting memories that extend well beyond the game." | READ FULL LETTER
WOMEN'S TENNIS: Whitney King '25
"Despite having never set foot on campus because of the pandemic, I had an irresistible gut feeling that this place and this team were home. That confidence speaks volumes about the warmth of this community and the appreciation for our coach. Every year, when recruits step onto campus, I find myself sharing the same three things with them: this team is a family, these girls are my sisters, and Coach Cecchini is more than just a coach. Coach Cecchini has built an environment where we push ourselves not only to be better athletes but also to grow academically and personally. She makes us better people, and for that, I will always be grateful." | READ FULL LETTER
MEN'S TRACK & FIELD: Angelo Regec '25
"I am in my senior year, majoring in electrical engineering. I can truly say that Bucknell was the perfect choice for me academically, as I have had the opportunity to study at one of the top engineering programs in the country. I have learned skills and gained experience that will stick with me for the entirety of my professional career, and for that I am grateful." | READ FULL LETTER
WOMEN'S TRACK & FIELD/CROSS COUNTRY: Anna Posh '25
"Serving as a co-captain this year fills me with pride. Past captains’ dedication and talent have inspired me, and leading this team has taught me teamwork, unity, and compassion. Supporting my teammates has not only encouraged their growth in athletics and beyond, but has also inspired my own." | READ FULL LETTER
VOLLEYBALL: Caleigh O'Connell '26
"I am lucky to be part of a team that has seen our record improve each year since I have been here. It is nice to witness records that we surpass and milestones we achieve, but I never take for granted how meaningful it is to be working towards this with the people who are so important to me; this is bigger than myself. The camaraderie of my team makes the challenging practices and demanding school days more enjoyable. Although it will be difficult to leave volleyball behind when the time comes, I can say without a doubt that the best thing that the athletics program has given me is the lifelong friendships I have made and the resulting personal growth that they have fostered." | READ FULL LETTER
MEN'S WATER POLO: Jack Bruce '25
"The beauty of this journey lies in its daily pursuit. There's something powerful about showing up every day, committed to the process of improvement. Some days, progress means mastering a new offensive strategy. Other days, it's about finding the mental fortitude to push through exhaustion. But every single day, without fail, presents an opportunity to get better. This relentless pursuit of excellence alongside my 17 brothers, and my teammates who have become my closest friends, has taught me that meaningful growth isn't about dramatic, rapid transformations, but rather the accumulated effect of consistent, dedicated effort." | READ FULL LETTER
WOMEN'S WATER POLO: Sidney Finkler '25
"Water polo has been a huge part of my life from age 14 to now. I had worked hard to achieve my dream of becoming a Division I student-athlete, and Bucknell was able to provide that dream for me. Being a student-athlete at Bucknell has been one of the most rewarding experiences I could have asked for. Bucknell has allowed me to pursue my passion for engineering while dedicating myself to my sport, giving me the chance to excel both academically and athletically." | READ FULL LETTER
WRESTLING: Nolan Springer '25
"As a senior, looking back at my first three years, I realize how lucky I am to be a part of such a wonderful program and university. Coming from small-town Wisconsin, I was not sure how moving out East would play out, but it turned out to be the best choice I ever made. Through the wrestling program and the campus community, I have built friendships and made a family that will last a lifetime. Because of this, I will always carry a deep pride in representing Bucknell." | READ FULL LETTER
CHEERLEADING: Kendall DeMorat '25
"After making Bucknell Cheerleading history last year by attending NCA Nationals in Daytona Beach, Florida, we are more than excited to share that the Bucknell Cheerleading Team has been granted a second opportunity to show our talent and skill on the mat in Daytona at NCA Cheer Nationals this coming spring. We have been working harder this season now, knowing what to expect, and we love to hear and see the support from our Cheer family as we prepare ourselves for the fierce competition once again." | READ FULL LETTER
MEN'S CREW: Luca Arvanitis '25
"As a member of Bucknell Men’s Crew, I’ve been able to take my passion to new heights. Rowing has become so much more than just a sport—it’s where I’ve met some of my closest friends and faced challenges that have shaped me both on and off the water. Training alongside my teammates and striving toward our shared goals, I’ve found a home and a family here. The spirit of this team and the dedication of my coaches have taught me the importance of perseverance, focus, and mutual support." | READ FULL LETTER
