An Increasing Number of Grad Students are Playing Sports

In the world of athletics, 20 Neumann students are defying the odds. These varsity athletes are not only exceptional in their sport but are also graduate students. 

Chuck Sack, Director of Athletics and Recreation, attributes the spike in the number of grad students to Covid-19 eligibility.  

Sack recalls that prior to Covid, the number of graduate students was much less. It was rare at Neumann and while other similar-sized schools would have a few graduate students, it would only be in the realm of one to five.  

The NCAA has decided to end the extended eligibility at the end of this academic year; however, the grad athletes are here to stay. 

“I do think that the pendulum has swung in one direction. The pendulum will swing back. How far? I don't know,” said Sack. 

Neumann University has gained a lot from this spike of graduates. Their students can grow their connection to the school, and according to Sack, Neumann’s athletic program has seen some more depth. 

Gina Kearns McLaughlin, coach of the women’s hockey team, expresses the exceptionality of the graduate students. The players bring their skills, maturity, and have been part of the program, so “they know the lay of the land.” 

McLaughlin can see the loyalty that graduate students convey. The students can continue their studies and their athletic endeavors at the school they are already attached to. 

Dari Troilo, a member of the women’s tennis team, utilized the option of graduate school.  

As an undergraduate, Troilo was a part of the women’s soccer team.  

During her senior year, her brother, who also plays tennis at Neumann, noticed Dari wasn’t busy in the spring and suggested she try tennis.  

“I don’t know how the points work, how the sport goes, I know it’s difficult. Let me try it,” she said. 

But athletics wasn’t the main reason Troilo came back to Neumann. Rather, it was to further her education. She came in as a biology major, switched to health science, and ended with athletic training. 

Covid made things no easier. 

 “I know hate is a strong word, but I hated online learning,” Troilo said.  

Not being in person hindered her learning, especially with her studies relying so heavily on that hands-on experience. 

After observing some athletic trainers in her senior year, she found the answers. 

“I love sports. I love people. I want to be in the healthcare field. Why haven't I thought of this my whole time here?” Troilo said. 

At first, she was unsure about staying at Neumann.  

Neumann has quite a presence in her family, as she and four other siblings have been Knights. Realizing her love for the university, she knew it was where she wanted to be.  

“I’m able to follow the path of athletic training, and for my love of this university, what better way to continue my education than staying here,” she said. 

The Covid period taught her to really try and cherish every day, whether that's in the classroom or on the court. When her brother came to her about tennis, she wanted to take that opportunity and not have any regrets. 

After a successful first season of tennis in her senior year, she was granted extra years of availability because she picked up the sport her senior year.  

Troilo explains how being in a routine allows her to excel. 

“With my spirituality, you need to continue to be positive and tennis has allowed me to do that, cause if not I think I’d be driving myself crazy,” she said. 

Neumann Athletes Playing an Extra Season