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June 19, 2007
The spring season began slowly in late February due to snow, storms and typical bad weather for Cape Ann in the final thralls of winter. However, the Endicott sailing team persevered with dry suits and winter hats, launching the boats on February 28th. In addition to the early practices, Captain Will Lockman (`07) and Coach Doug Walker organized early team meetings for chalk-talks on heavy wind days in preparation for the first true Varsity test as part of the New England Intercollegiate Sailing Association.
Endicott women Kathryn Bispham ( `10), Adjovi Koene (`08), Sarah Pennisten (`09) and Emalie Prior (`09) traveled to Roger Williams to compete in the Emily Wick Trophy Regatta. Sailing against teams such as Tufts, Boston College, and Yale, the team had a rough start, but steadily improved their performance though out the day. Despite finishing last, the team returned to campus with a greater appreciation for the skill and dedication needed to compete in such a conference.
With a focused eye, Endicott then raced in their first Central series held at the Harvard Sailing Center on the Charles River. Will Lockman skippered Endicott 1 with Adjovi Koene as crew, and Nick Kruse (`09) skippered Endicott 2 with Sophia Pagano (`07) as crew. Both boats were able to finish in the middle of the pack in some races and overall, both Lockman and Kruse finished 15th in their respective divisions as Endicott was only narrowly defeated by Northeastern boats.
As the season progressed, the team continued their improvement as racing at the various sites in different boats against tougher and tougher competition became more familiar. The final regatta of the season was held at Harvard where the weather had mirrored much of the season as the team was confronted with rain and sleet, but Endicott had improved. Lockman continued his run of excellent races as he skippered Endicott 1 with Sophia Pagano (`07) as crew. Nick Kruse (`09) skippered Endicott 2 with Kate Bispham (`10) as crew. Lockman finished 13th overall, besting teams such as Worcester Poly tech, Amherst and Brandeis. Kruse placed 14th in the Second Division, being narrowly defeated by Amherst.
Following the season, Will Lockman and Sophia Pagano were awarded the Endicott Sailing Most Valuable Sailor Awards-their commitment to the program is immeasurable. The fall 2007 season preview appears favorable with freshman recruits bolstering returning upperclassmen. With the first regatta scheduled to take place at Roger Williams September 8 and 9, Endicott will most certainly be in an even better position to compete with last year's experience under their belt.
Doug Walker, Head Coach
Craig Roderick, Staff Advisor