Bentley Athletics continued to raise the bar in 2025-26, delivering one of the most successful years in our history. Across our programs, Falcons student-athletes and coaches achieved new milestones, earned national recognition and reinforced Bentley's reputation as one of the premier athletic departments in Division II and Division I hockey.

The year was highlighted by historic hockey, men’s soccer and baseball seasons. Andy Jones and his program brought home its second consecutive Atlantic Hockey America tournament title, including its first ever regular-season conference title. Also, for the second straight year, the Falcons reached the NCAA Tournament, facing off against powerhouse Michigan. Men’s soccer was lead by NE10 Coach of the Year Gary Crompton whose team earned their first NCAA appearance since 1975 and were NE10 Regular Season champions. Baseball, under Coach Mike Hill, captured their first Northeast 10 Championship, advanced to the NCAA Division II College World Series for the first time and finished with the most successful season in program history.

Our teams again excelled on the biggest stages. Women's volleyball continued its remarkable run as one of the nation's elite programs, while men’s and women's basketball added another NCAA tournament appearance to their storied traditions. Football, men's soccer and several other programs reached new heights, helping Bentley maintain a strong presence in postseason competition across multiple sports. Our coaching staff's excellence was evident throughout the department, with six Bentley coaches earning conference, regional or national Coach of the Year honors.

This past year also brought exciting developments beyond competition. Renovations to the Dana Center gymnasium created more opportunities for recreation, wellness and student engagement, while Bentley Arena continued to serve as a centerpiece of campus life.

Our commitment to academic excellence remains unwavering. Bentley student-athletes once again earned outstanding classroom results, reflecting the same discipline and dedication that drive their success in competition. Their achievements embody what makes Bentley special: excellence without compromise.

None of this would be possible without the support of our alumni, families, friends, fans and donors. Your generosity and commitment continue to provide transformative opportunities for our student-athletes and help position Bentley Athletics for an even brighter future.

Thank you for your continued support of Bentley Athletics.

Go Falcons!
Vaughn Williams
Director of Athletics, Bentley University

Choosing to come to Bentley was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Everyone tells you that Bentley is a place of exceptional academics and athletics, but it is truly so much more than that. From day one, I felt supported by everyone around me, from coaches and support staff to professors, teammates and countless others across campus.

As my time at Bentley progressed, I learned what it means to be part of something bigger than myself. I learned what it means to compete for those around me and to be a member of the Bentley Athletics community, a place where people genuinely care about one another and work together toward a common goal. Bentley Athletics is a family, united by a commitment to excellence, service and team success. I am proud to be a Bentley Falcon.

When I reflect on the past four years, one of the first things that comes to mind is making history alongside the incredible teammates I was fortunate enough to play with. Winning three consecutive East Region championships and a Northeast-10 championship are accomplishments I will cherish for the rest of my life. But when I think about those achievements, I am also reminded of the extraordinary support that helped make them possible.

Whether it was student-athletes from other teams attending our matches, the promotion and visibility our program received, the academic resources available to us, or the opportunity to travel and compete against some of the best teams in the country, the Bentley community consistently provided us with every opportunity to succeed. That level of support is not something you find everywhere, but it is something that defines the Bentley experience.

My experience at Bentley has been the most impactful five years of my life, both on and off the field. When I arrived on campus, I knew about Bentley's strong academic reputation, but I wasn't sure what my experience as a student-athlete would look like. I was given the opportunity to try out for the baseball team under the late Coach DeFelice and did just enough to earn a roster spot as a freshman. When Coach Hill took over during my sophomore year, opportunities became harder to come by, and I ultimately did not make the travel roster. At the time, it was one of the most difficult moments of my athletic career. Looking back, however, it became a turning point. That experience challenged me to work harder, grow as a player and teammate, and ultimately achieve things I never could have imagined when I first came to Bentley.

From my junior year through my final season, our program continued to make strides, setting single-season win records three consecutive years and proving that we were capable of something special. Everything came together this past year. In my fifth and final season, we captured the first Northeast-10 Championship in program history, followed by East Regional and Super Regional championships, before advancing to the NCAA Division II College World Series.

By the end of the season, we had taken Bentley Baseball to heights it had never reached before and established ourselves as one of the most accomplished teams in program history. It was an incredible honor to serve as a captain during my final two seasons and help lead a group that achieved so much together. More than any championship, award, or record, my time at Bentley taught me the value of perseverance, leadership, and resilience in the face of adversity. Those lessons will stay with me long after my playing career ends, and they are what I will carry forward most from my time as a Falcon.

Being a student-athlete at Bentley University has taught me that being part of a team extends far beyond the basketball court. Balancing academics, athletics and community service has strengthened my time management, leadership, communication and teamwork skills. Through my community engagement experiences, I have learned how meaningful small acts of kindness and consistent support can be. These experiences have also reminded me to be grateful for the opportunities and support systems in my own life.

One of the most meaningful experiences during my time at Bentley was working with the Mary Ruchalski Foundation and helping host the Light the Way for Pediatric Cancer event. As a student-athlete, being able to use my platform and passion for sports to raise awareness for pediatric cancer made the event especially meaningful because Mary was a close friend of mine.

Mary was a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew her. She was an outstanding student, athlete and friend who loved sports before being diagnosed with cancer at just 11 years old. Her family established the foundation to advocate for increased pediatric cancer research funding and to provide financial support to families navigating treatment. Hosting this event pushed me outside my comfort zone, requiring me to speak publicly, share Mary's story and bring people together around an important cause. It showed me that athletes can make an impact beyond competition and use their platforms to support individuals who may not have the opportunity to participate in the sports they love.

Another experience that shaped me was participating in the St. Jude Walk for Pediatric Cancer in Boston alongside my teammates. Knowing that every dollar raised supports lifesaving research, treatment and care for children battling life-threatening illnesses gave every step a deeper purpose. Participating with my team reinforced how much stronger our impact can be when we work together toward a common goal and a cause greater than ourselves.

Across these experiences, I have come to recognize many similarities between community service and athletics. Both rely on teamwork, trust, encouragement and a willingness to show up for others. Community service has helped me become a more empathetic and well-rounded student-athlete while teaching me that giving back can remain a meaningful priority, even amid the demands of academics and athletics.

This summer was incredibly meaningful for me. I focused on showing that type 1 diabetes doesn't limit what's possible, whether on the court, in the community, or in a career. Fundraising was a major part of that mission. At the Northeast Sports Card Expo in June, we spent 10 hours signing autographs and connecting with kids and families, raising $700 through a donation jar to support Diabetes Training Camp and the American Diabetes Association. The event was a powerful reminder that small, personal interactions can make a meaningful impact and help strengthen the T1D community.

Later in July, I hosted my second annual Cooper Farrall T1D Basketball Camp in Chicago, partnering with La Rabida Children's Hospital, the same hospital where I was treated as a child and where I met the endocrinologist who helped shape how I manage my diabetes today, Dr. Anita Swamy. With sponsorship support from Abbott, Omnipod and other diabetes-focused organizations, the camp raised nearly $1,000 to support La Rabida and provide resources for young athletes navigating life with T1D. I was also fortunate to be featured on ABC News in connection with the event.

Mentorship and representation were just as important to me this summer. In July, I returned to Diabetes Training Camp at Seton Hall University as a guest speaker, the very camp I attended as a 12-year-old trying to understand what life as an athlete with T1D might look like. Coming back to speak with more than 30 young athletes who are pursuing their dreams while managing diabetes, knowing I was once in their shoes, was one of the most rewarding experiences of my summer.

That same spirit carried into August when I traveled to Dallas for the Diabetes Legends T1D Camp. There, I connected with more than 25 campers alongside Rob Howe and former WNBA first-round draft pick Lauren Cox. I was also honored to be featured by the NCAA for a week in August, highlighting what it means to compete as a Division II student-athlete while managing a chronic condition. I used that platform to show young athletes with T1D that their diagnosis does not define their potential.

Behind all of these experiences was a 12-week internship with Eli Lilly in Indianapolis, where I worked in diabetes care, engaged with healthcare providers, learned about the business side of treatment access and saw firsthand how innovations move from research to the patients who need them. That experience connected everything I did this summer to a single purpose: helping people

with T1D improve their quality of life. Whether through fundraising, mentoring a young camper, or contributing to the industry itself, that mission continues to drive me.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to impact the lives of kids, athletes, families and everyone who connected with me this summer. I'm excited to continue pursuing that passion throughout the school year at Bentley

My experience as a student-athlete at Bentley was one of the most meaningful parts of my college journey. Being a student-athlete gave me a community that became an essential part of my life. Some of the strongest relationships I built during college came through athletics, and I know those friendships will remain with me long after graduation.

Being part of a team also helped me grow in confidence and challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone. As I took on the role of captain, I learned what it truly means to be a leader, not just on the field, but in supporting my teammates, communicating effectively and being someone they could rely on. Athletics helped me develop skills and perspectives that I do not think I would have gained elsewhere.

Academically, I felt supported every step of the way. Throughout my time at Bentley, I was surrounded by people in both the academic and athletic communities who genuinely wanted me to succeed and were always willing to help when I needed it. Balancing academics and athletics was not always easy, but knowing I had that support system made all the difference.

When I reflect on my Bentley experience, what I am most grateful for are the people and the sense of community. Through both academics and athletics, Bentley challenged me to grow, helped me build confidence and provided a support network that shaped me into the person I am today. Those experiences and relationships will stay with me long after my time as a Falcon comes to an end.

Coming to Bentley from Canada, hockey has always been a huge part of my life. What has made my experience here so special is the culture we've built within Bentley Hockey. We genuinely enjoy being around one another, coming to the rink every day, competing and pushing each other to

improve. Everyone is working toward something bigger than themselves, and that shared commitment has made being part of this program incredibly rewarding.

Over the past few years, I've had the opportunity to watch that culture grow and translate into success on the ice. Winning conference championships in each of the last two seasons and representing Bentley in the NCAA Tournament both years are experiences I will never forget. While those accomplishments are special, what stands out most to me is the bond our team has built along the way.

Whether we're at practice, in the weight room, competing on game day or simply spending time together around the rink, we challenge one another to be our best while supporting each other every step of the way. Being part of a group that is committed to continuous improvement and determined to keep building something special at Bentley is something I am incredibly proud of. The relationships, memories and lessons I've gained through this program will stay with me long after my playing career is over.

From the Bentley Newsroom

Bentley University has completed a major renovation of the Dana Center Gym, transforming one of the campus's most heavily used recreation and athletics facilities into a more flexible and accessible space for students, faculty and staff.

The project, which began in April 2025 and was completed in time for the start of the academic year, included the replacement of the gym floor, installation of new basketball equipment and video display boards, and the creation of a new dividing wall that separates the main competition court from a dedicated practice and recreation area.

A key feature of the renovation is the ability to accommodate both varsity athletics and recreational activities simultaneously. The redesigned layout allows Bentley's basketball and volleyball teams to practice and compete on Barbara Stevens Court while other students use the adjacent space for activities such as pickleball, volleyball, basketball, yoga, dance and intramural programs.

University leaders said the investment aligns with Bentley's commitment to student wellbeing and broad access to recreation. The Dana Center, originally built in 1973, had not undergone a significant gym renovation since 2006, making the project a long-awaited modernization of a central campus facility.

The renovated gym is expected to serve as a hub for both competitive athletics and everyday student wellness, supporting Bentley's goal of providing more opportunities for physical activity, community engagement and campus life.

Bentley Newsroom: The French National Team at Bentley: A Look Back

Bentley hosted excellence — and a world-class performance by France during their 2026 FIFA World Cup™ journey

By Kristen Walsh

During its impressive run to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ semifinals, the French national football team captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Forward Kylian Mbappé made history by winning the prestigious FIFA World Cup Golden Boot for the second time after scoring 10 goals in the tournament.

As the official base camp training site for l’Équipe de France de Football, Bentley got to share in the team’s journey as they trained for matches and built impactful community connections. The French Football Federation selected Bentley based on its top-quality athletic fields, modern work-out facilities in the Bentley Arena and proximity to the stadium where games were played in Foxborough, Mass.

From the time team buses arrived on campus, there was excitement in the air. Training sessions drew a strong media presence and an outpouring of support from fans and the Bentley community. Among the highlights: Community Training Day, where local youth soccer players got the chance to meet and practice with the French players, take selfies and collect autographs.

Serving as “home” for France left a lasting impression on the university. Here are some story highlights from the Bentley Newsroom — and beyond.

Watch our highlight reel.

Bentley University was the Presenting Partner of the Boston Fleet's historic game at TD Garden on April 11, 2026. The event marked the first-ever PWHL game played at TD Garden and drew a sellout crowd of 17,850 fans. As a university dedicated to developing leaders who make an impact, Bentley

University aligned its brand with a milestone that elevated women's sports, inspired future generations, and brought the Boston community together on a landmark stage.

Bentley University brought its brand to life through its sponsorship of the Boston Fleet's game at TD Garden. Through integrated marketing, in-arena branding, digital promotion and fan engagement opportunities, Bentley connected with hockey fans while reinforcing its commitment to leadership, opportunity and empowering future generations.

One of the most exciting elements of the partnership was the on-ice intermission shootout, featuring the U-10 Jr Falcon Girls, coached by Bentley Alum and Hockey Hall of Famer Steve Tobio ’02, the Bentley Women’s Hockey Club Team coached by Alum Michael DeRienzo ’10 and Flex.

After winning its second straight Atlantic Hockey championship in March, the Bentley hockey team was invited to the Massachusetts State House on April 28 to be honored for their accomplishments.

The Falcons toured the building and met state officials, who congratulated the team on its back-to-back championship.

"Having the chance to visit the State House was an incredible experience that we will remember forever," said team captain Stephen Castagna. "It meant a lot to us to have the opportunity to represent not just our program, but Bentley and the Waltham community as well. We are super thankful to Representatives John Lawn and Tom Stanley for having us."

Compiled from media reports

The Elite 9 Hockey League announced the addition of the Jr. Falcons Hockey Club to the 2026-27 season, bringing a new elite youth hockey program to Bentley Arena and expanding opportunities for top players throughout New England.

Based out of the Bentley Arena in Waltham, Massachusetts, the Jr. Falcons will offer players a truly unique youth hockey experience. The program will practice and play its home games at one of the premier collegiate hockey facilities in the region while wearing the colors of Bentley University’s Division I hockey program.

While youth organizations may have affiliations with college hockey programs, the Jr. Falcons will provide something distinctive: the opportunity to train and compete full-time in a premier Division I collegiate environment. From practices to home games, Jr. Falcons players will call Bentley Arena home.

The program will field one team at each age level, creating a highly competitive atmosphere with limited roster spots. League officials expect the program's selectivity to increase as interest and participation grow.

The addition of the Jr. Falcons strengthens the Elite 9 Hockey League's footprint in Massachusetts, one of the nation's most competitive youth hockey markets, while providing players across Greater Boston and New England with another pathway for high-level development.

Leading the Jr. Falcons U10 Girls team will be Steve Tobio ‘02, a former Bentley hockey player and member of the Bentley Athletics Hall of Fame.

"Bentley Hockey had a tremendous impact on me as a player and as a person, so having the opportunity to help build the next generation of players here is incredibly meaningful," said Tobio. "Our goal is to develop confident, competitive hockey players while building character, strong teammates and a lifelong love for the game."

With access to a premier facility, a strong emphasis on player development and a highly selective team structure, the Jr. Falcons Hockey Club aims to establish itself as a leading destination for elite youth hockey in New England.

Fans and families are encouraged to visit Bentley Arena throughout the season to watch the Jr. Falcons in action. For more information, visit www.jrfalconshockey.com.

Bentley University's athletic excellence was reflected on the sidelines as six Falcons coaches earned major regional and conference Coach of the Year honors, highlighting a remarkable year for the university's athletic programs.

Leading the group was Mike Hill, who was named the 2026 American Baseball Coaches Association East Region Coach of the Year after guiding Bentley baseball to the most successful season in program history, including the program's first Northeast 10 championship and first appearance in the NCAA Division II College World Series. Hill also earned NE10 Coach of the Year honors.

Women's volleyball head coach Joey Pacis was recognized as the American Volleyball Coaches Association East Region Coach of the Year after directing the Falcons to another regional championship run and national prominence.

On the ice, Andy Jones was voted Atlantic Hockey Coach of the Year after leading the Falcons to another championship season and continued success at the Division I level.

Women's basketball coach C White earned her second consecutive NE10 Coach of the Year award after guiding Bentley to another conference championship season and maintaining the program's position among the nation's elite Division II teams.

Rounding out the list was men's soccer head coach Gary Crompton, who was named NE10 Men's Soccer Coach of the Year after leading the Falcons to their first regular-season conference championship since 1995 and a return to the NCAA Tournament.

In football, first-year head coach C.J. Scarpa received New England Division II/III Coach of the Year honors from both the New England Football Writers and the Gridiron Club of Greater Boston after leading Bentley to the NE10 title and an NCAA playoff appearance.

The collection of honors underscores the strength and breadth of Bentley Athletics, with Falcon coaches being recognized at both the conference and national levels for their leadership, player development and competitive success.

Danny Lawson '07 (Men's Basketball)

Danny Lawson succeeds his father, Jay Lawson, at the helm of the Bentley program, beginning with the 2026-2027 season.

"I am honored and grateful to be named the men's basketball head coach at Bentley," said Danny Lawson. "This place is home, and I couldn't be more excited and motivated to get to work…. "My Dad built something truly unique that both past and present players are extremely proud of — success on and off the court, a culture of lifetime relationships, and an unwavering standard of growth and excellence," Lawson continued. "Carrying forward the legacy of this program is a responsibility that I want and will always treat with the utmost respect. It is now our collective job to continue building on this special foundation."

During his student-athlete years at Bentley, Lawson was heralded for his leadership, as he earned a share of the athletic department's Senior Male Athlete of the Year award. Bentley qualified for the NCAA Tournament three times during Lawson's playing career, reaching the Elite Eight in 2007. The program compiled a 101-27 record during Lawson's four years.

After graduating from Bentley with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Behavioral Sciences in 2007, Lawson joined the Boston Celtics staff as assistant video coordinator for the organization's 2007-08 NBA Championship season. His first coaching position was as an assistant with Le Moyne, which was a member of the NE10 at the time.

Lawson quickly became a highly regarded coach in the collegiate ranks. He returns to his alma mater after serving as an assistant coach at NCAA Division I University of Maryland-Baltimore County (UMBC) since 2021. Lawson helped lead the 2025-26 UMBC Retrievers to America East titles in both the regular season and the conference tournament, earning an automatic bid for the NCAA Tournament.

Lawson earned his master's degree in social science from LIU in 2012.

Kevin Gould '10 (Men's Lacrosse)

Kevin Gould, a 2010 Bentley graduate and former All-American, was the head coach at Roger Williams for the last four seasons. He becomes just the second head coach in program history. Gould succeeds Jim Murphy, who announced his retirement in May after 34 years. Gould takes over a Bentley program that made three straight trips to the NCAA Tournament from 2023-2025 and is regularly ranked in the USILA national top-20 poll.

"I want to sincerely thank Director of Athletics Vaughn Williams and Associate Athletic Director Courtney Finn for trusting me with the opportunity to lead this program," said Gould. "Bentley University was transformational for me as a student-athlete, and to return as the head coach is truly the honor of a lifetime. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and cannot wait to get to work with our team. I also would like to thank Coach Murphy for everything he has done for the Bentley lacrosse program and for the lasting impact he has had on so many student-athletes, alumni, and the Bentley community. Go Falcons!"

A native of Duxbury, Massachusetts, Gould had a standout four-year career at Bentley. He was team captain for his junior and senior seasons and was named a USILA All-American in 2010. He ranks 7th in program history in career points (159) and fifth in assists (82).

Gould was drafted by the Boston Cannon of Major League Lacrosse in 2010, 39th overall, and helped the team win the 2011 league championship.

After graduating from Bentley, Gould worked his way up the coaching ranks, first serving as an assistant coach at Bryant. He then transitioned to coaching Dartmouth, where he was the Big Green's Offensive Coordinator. Gould has also held coaching roles at UMass Lowell and Providence College.

Erin Seibel (Women’s Lacrosse)

Erin Seibel has been named Bentley's new women's lacrosse head coach, beginning with the 2026- 2027 school year.

"I am incredibly honored and humbled to be named the next women's lacrosse head coach at Bentley," said Seibel. “Bentley has built a proud tradition of excellence, both academically and athletically, and I am thrilled to join a community that is so deeply committed to developing leaders on and off the field," she continued. "I look forward to building lasting relationships with our student-athletes, alumni, families, and supporters while fostering a culture built on hard work, accountability, and championship expectations."

"Our goal is to compete for conference championships, pursue national success, and provide every student-athlete with an exceptional experience that prepares them for success long after graduation," Seibel concluded. "I can't wait to get to campus, meet our team, and begin building something special together.”

Seibel was previously the assistant coach at Tufts for three seasons, where she helped lead the Jumbos to a highly successful run that included an appearance in the 2025 national championship game, the Final Four in 2026 and the Elite Eight in 2024.

Her work as Tufts' Offensive Coordinator produced the program record for goals scored in both the 2024 and 2025 seasons and the NESCAC's number one ranked scoring offense in 2026. In her three seasons with the Jumbos, they had a combined record of 54-10 and won the 2025 NESCAC championship. The program produced 13 IWLCA All-America recognitions and the 2025 IWLCA Midfielder of the Year. 23 times a player earned IWLCA All-Region recognition and 18 times an All- Conference honor.

"Erin is a rising star in this profession and she is going to do an exceptional job as the next head coach at Bentley," said Tufts head coach Courtney Shute. "Erin's ability to connect with student-athletes and her presence as a leader is impressive. With Erin taking over as Bentley's next head coach, they are poised for exciting levels of success both on and off the field!"

A native of Medfield, Massachusetts and a 2023 graduate of UMass Amherst, Seibel played as an attacker for the Minutemen for four seasons and served as team captain as a senior. After graduating with a degree in Psychology, she joined the Tufts coaching staff in August 2023.

Timothy Mason (Women's Soccer)

Tim Mason was named the next head coach for Bentley women's soccer, effective fall 2026. Mason comes to Bentley after spending the previous eight years on the Babson women's soccer coaching staff.

"I am honored to be named the new head women's soccer coach at Bentley," said Mason. "I cannot wait to get started with the team and to work with such a talented and competitive group. I'm very grateful for Vaughn Williams and the hiring committee," Mason continued. "I have been blown away by the support and encouragement throughout the entire athletic department and wider Bentley community. This is an exciting time to join the Bentley family both on and off the field."

During his tenure at Babson, Mason helped lead the Beavers to the program's second ever NCAA Championship appearance in 2023. Babson reached the NEWMAC Tournament semifinals on five occasions during Mason's time there.

Mason, a native of England, also coached in the women's professional ranks with the Boston Breakers.

Mason inherits a Bentley program that is poised to return all four of its All-Northeast 10 honorees from 2025: Sydney DeRoche (First Team); Holly DiPalo (Second Team); Abi Hennessey (Third Team); Olivia Matthews (All-Rookie).

Brook Capello (Softball)

Brook Capello, the winningest softball coach in Simmons history, has been named head coach of Bentley softball. Capello spent the previous 10 years as head coach at Simmons, an NCAA DIII member in Boston.

Capello led Simmons to its first-ever Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) title in 2023, and the Sharks repeated as conference champions in 2024.

"I would like to thank Director of Athletics, Vaughn Williams, for entrusting me with the opportunity to lead the Bentley University softball program," said Capello. "I know the future is bright for the softball team following its finish as an East Region 1 finalist in 2025. I am excited to be a part of their next steps and continued success on and off the field."

During her tenure at Simmons, the Sharks earned 73 Scholar-Athlete recognitions from the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA). The program also placed nine NFCA All-Region honorees, and the Sharks claimed GNAC Pitcher of the Year in each of the past four seasons.

Capello was named the GNAC Coach of the Year in 2019, and Simmons earned NFCA Regional Coaching Staff of the Year in 2023.

Prior to Simmons, Capello was the head coach at DIII Newbury. She earned New England Collegiate Conference (NECC) Coach of the Year in 2013. Newbury placed its first-ever All-Region recipient under Capello's leadership.

Capello takes over a Bentley program that has reached the NCAA DII Championship in two of the past three seasons, and the Falcons have posted a winning record three of the past four seasons.

Kevin Walsh (Swimming & Diving)

Kevin Walsh finished his first season as Bentley's head coach for swimming & diving and as the University's Aquatics Director. Walsh arrives at Bentley after one year as an assistant coach at Union College (NCAA D-III).

Walsh is no stranger to the Northeast-10. He spent three seasons (2022-24) on the swimming & diving staff at his alma mater, Saint Rose. Walsh's coaching tenure with the Golden Knights began with one season as an assistant. He was then elevated to head coach for two seasons.

During Walsh's first season on the Saint Rose staff, the Golden Knights placed the NE10 Women's Swimmer of the Year (Colleen Quaglia). As head coach, Walsh's swimmers garnered multiple top- 10 all-time conference finishes during the NE10 Championships.

"I am incredibly excited to join Bentley University and return to the NE10 - a conference I know well from both my time as a student-athlete and as a head coach at The College of Saint Rose," said Walsh. "I understand what it takes to build a winning culture in this conference, and I'm committed to carrying forward the legacy of excellence that Mary Kay established here. Her impact on this program is undeniable, and I'm honored to continue that tradition while bringing new energy and vision to Falcons swimming and diving."

Walsh succeeds the legendary Mary Kay Samko, who led the Bentley swimming & diving program for 29 years. She announced her retirement following the 2024-25 season. Samko will be inducted into the Bentley Athletics Hall of Fame this fall.

Walsh was a four-year letter winner at Saint Rose, and he was a team captain his senior season. He earned his B.A. in Mathematics at Saint Rose, where he also earned a M.S. in Education. Walsh has served as an adjunct professor at both Saint Rose and Siena College.

Mary Kay Samko (Swimming & Diving): 29 years

Mary Kay Samko, the legendary Bentley University swimming and diving head coach and aquatics director, has announced her retirement at the end of the academic year after 29 seasons leading the Falcons and 43 years as a collegiate head coach. Samko has won 600 dual meets in her career, including 506 at Bentley, where her teams have captured four Northeast-10 men’s championships and 15 New England Intercollegiate Swimming and Diving Association titles, while earning numerous Coach of the Year honors. A Boston College Athletic Hall of Famer, Samko has built a lasting legacy not only through competitive success but through her mentorship and relationships with generations of student-athletes and coaches. As she approaches her final championships, Samko reflected on her time at Bentley and summed up her decision simply: “Swimming is about times and for me, this is the right time.”

Jay Lawson (Men’s Basketball): 41 years

Jay Lawson retired after spending 41 years on the Bentley men's basketball staff, including 35 as head coach. He compiled a career record of 664-335, captured nine Northeast 10 regular season championships and four NE10 tournament titles, earned 13 NCAA Division II tournament bids, reached the Sweet Sixteen eight times, made four trips to the Elite Eight, and advanced to the Final Four twice.

Jim Murphy (Men’s Lacrosse): 34 years

Jim Murphy retired after 34 seasons as Bentley’s head men’s lacrosse coach, leaving the program with 250 wins and a legacy as one of Division II lacrosse’s winningest coaches. The only head coach in the program’s varsity history, Murphy led Bentley to three Northeast-10 regular season and tournament championships, six NE10 Coach of the Year honors and three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances from 2023–25. His impact extended well beyond the field, with 17 All- Americans, 10 Scholar All-Americans and a men’s lacrosse team that won the NE10 Team Academic Excellence Award five consecutive years. Murphy also made a lasting impact across Bentley Athletics through his work with hockey, soccer and department operations, earning a reputation for quietly supporting student-athletes, teams and colleagues across campus.

Bentley University celebrated the induction of six new members into the Bentley Athletics Hall of Fame during a ceremony held at The Westin Waltham on Sept. 19, 2025. The Class of 2025 includes Mark Argust '01 (men's basketball), Stan DeMartinis '96 (football and baseball), Melissa Nash Ramirez '09 (track and cross country), Mary Kay Samko (swimming and diving coach), Holt Sihvonen '18 (track and field), and Ryan Soderquist '00 (hockey).

The class represents more than 100 years of combined excellence as student-athletes and coaches and brings the total number of Bentley Hall of Fame members to 179.

A highlight of the class was longtime swimming and diving coach Mary Kay Samko, who retired following the 2024-25 academic year. Over 29 seasons, Samko built Bentley's swimming and diving programs into perennial conference contenders, compiling a remarkable 506-150 overall record and leading the men's team to four Northeast 10 championships.

Mark Argust left a lasting mark on Bentley men's basketball from 1997-2001, finishing his career with 1,464 points and 640 rebounds while ranking among the program's all-time leaders in numerous categories. A two-time All-Northeast 10 selection, he remains one of the most efficient scorers in school history.

Stan DeMartinis excelled in two sports during his Bentley career, starring both on the football field and baseball diamond. One of the most prolific power hitters in program history, he ranks among Bentley's career leaders in slugging percentage, home runs and RBI.

In track and cross country, Melissa Nash Ramirez captured four Northeast 10 championships and qualified for NCAA Division II nationals three times. She was named the NE10 Women's Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year as a senior and remains an accomplished distance runner today.

Holt Sihvonen, one of the most decorated field athletes in program history, earned All-America honors in the javelin and twice qualified for the NCAA Division II Championships. He was named the 2017 NE10 Men's Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year and still holds the school record in the event.

Completing the class was Ryan Soderquist, a standout player who later became one of the most successful coaches in Bentley hockey history. As a student-athlete, he finished as the program's all-time leading scorer with 173 career points. He later guided the Falcons for 21 seasons as head coach, recording 277 victories and earning three conference Coach of the Year honors.

The Hall of Fame Class of 2025 reflects the depth of talent, leadership and achievement that has defined Bentley Athletics for generations, honoring individuals whose contributions continue to shape the university's proud athletic legacy.

My experience as a student-athlete at Bentley prepared me for far more than life after college. It helped shape the person, professional and leader I am today. Balancing the demands of academics and athletics taught me invaluable lessons in discipline, time management, accountability and resilience. As a captain of the 2014 undefeated National Championship team, I learned firsthand the importance of relationships, communication and selflessness in pursuing a common goal. Playing for Hall of Fame coach Barbara Stevens also provided a masterclass in leadership and a blueprint for what a championship culture looks like. Those experiences inspired me to pursue a career in athletics after graduation.

Since beginning my coaching career, I have come to appreciate how often I rely on the business education I received at Bentley. In many ways, leading a basketball program is similar to leading an organization, requiring skills in marketing, recruiting, relationship-building, financial planning and team management. I am responsible for helping sustain and grow our program's culture and reputation while supporting the development of the student-athletes within it.

I will always be grateful for the foundation Bentley provided. The university gave me not only an unforgettable student-athlete experience, but also the confidence, skills and perspective to pursue my passion. Today, I have the privilege of helping young women grow as students, athletes and leaders, and I strive to create the same transformational experience that Bentley provided for me.

I played football at Bentley University, where I earned All-America honors and set numerous school records during my career. After graduating, I had the opportunity to attend minicamps with both the Tennessee Titans and the New England Patriots, fulfilling a lifelong dream of pursuing a career in the NFL. I also played professionally for the Massachusetts Pirates of the Indoor Football League, serving as a team captain. Those experiences helped shape my leadership skills and prepared me for success beyond athletics.

After concluding my football career, I transitioned into my family's business. Today, I oversee operations for Sal's Pizza, leading a team of more than 100 employees and working across the organization to support day-to-day operations and the continued growth of the brand. My focus is on improving business performance, supporting our teams, fostering a strong culture and building upon the foundation my family has created over the years. The lessons I learned through athletics, including leadership, discipline, teamwork and perseverance, continue to guide me every day in my professional career.

The Flock is Bentley Athletics' student marketing team, working behind the scenes and on game days to create engaging fan experiences and promote our teams across campus. Being a member of The Flock has been one of the highlights of my Bentley experience. I love interacting with fans and fellow students, helping create an exciting game-day atmosphere, and bringing halftime and intermission activities to life.

One of my favorite experiences was supporting Flex the Falcon at a Boston Fleet game at TD Garden. It was an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience and see firsthand how a professional sports organization operates in an industry I hope to pursue after graduation. Seeing Fleet fans recognize Flex demonstrated the reach and impact of Bentley Athletics beyond our campus community.

As a Public Relations major, The Flock has allowed me to apply what I learn in the classroom while pursuing my passion for sports. Most importantly, it has given me the opportunity to connect fans, students and the broader community through athletics. The Flock has shown me the power of creating meaningful experiences that bring people together and foster a strong sense of community through sports.

Being Flex the Falcon has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my time at Bentley. As Flex, I quite literally get embraced by the community. Whether I’m at a game, a campus event or out in the community, I have the opportunity to make people smile and create memorable experiences. There’s something special about seeing the excitement on a child’s face when they run up for a hug or a photo or watching fans of all ages connect with Bentley through Flex.

One of the most meaningful parts of the role is our involvement in the Waltham community. Every week, we spend time with local children, playing games, building connections and representing Bentley in a positive way. The role requires significant commitment, often around 20 hours each week, but the impact makes every minute worthwhile.

I consider myself part of The Flock and part of something bigger than myself. Making people smile and bringing joy to others is what I love to do. Knowing that I’ve helped create positive memories for people is what has made this experience so meaningful.