Ink of Identity: Three Neumann University Athletes Share Stories Behind Their Tattoos

Tattoos are not just ink on skin, rather, they often tell stories, represent beliefs, and hold deep significance for the individuals who wear them.

At Neumann University, several student-athletes proudly display tattoos that depict their journeys, beliefs, and bonds. These are three of many such stories of inked expressions on campus.

1. Carlos Wylde-Gladbach, Senior- Track and Field

Tattoo Description: A sleeve on his left arm and chest featuring three animals: a serpent, a puma, and a condor.

Meaning Behind the Ink: Wylde-Gladbach's tattoo is more than just body art; it’s a symbol of his Ecuadorian heritage and cultural identity.

“This is definitely my most meaningful tattoo because it is not only the tattoo I got in my homeland of Ecuador but also because it is the three animals most important to them, them being the Incas,” said Wylde-Gladbach.

Each animal represents a significant aspect of Inca culture—the serpent for the land of the dead, the puma for the land of the living, and the condor for the heavens.

“I got this tattoo so that I can always have my country with me and also really to never forget my roots,” continued Wylde-Gladbach.

The word “PACHANTAK" is inscribed on his bicep, further solidifying his connection to his roots, translating to “forever” in the native language of Ecuador.

For Wylde-Gladbach, this tattoo serves as a constant reminder of his homeland and the importance of staying connected to his heritage.

“I see it as the whole tattoo means ‘Ecuador forever,’” said Wylde-Gladbach.

2. Cioni Simmons, Sophomore- Softball and Basketball

Tattoo Description: Matching tattoos with her twin brother, featuring the phrase “two of two” and their astrology sign on her forearm.

Meaning Behind the Ink: As twins only born two minutes apart, Simmons and her brother share a unique bond that goes beyond words.

“My brother and I had always talked about getting matching tattoos,” said Simmons. “It took us a while to come up with a design, but we finally did it.”

As this was Simmons' first tattoo, she wanted something that would be sentimental and meaningful for her. Their matching tattoos signify their inseparable connection and the special bond they share.

The phrase “two of two” symbolizes their unity and profound understanding that they are part of a whole, as her brother’s tattoo says “one of two”.

The play on words adds a creative touch, using the fact that these twins were also born only two minutes apart, furthering the meaning behind this tattoo.

With their astrology sign as the finishing touch, this tattoo represents not only their bond as siblings but also the cosmic connection they share.

3. Kristen Pagliaro, Senior- Softball

Tattoo Description: A shark tattoo on her inner arm.

Meaning Behind the Ink: For Pagliaro, the shark tattoo is more than just a design; it’s a powerful reminder to keep moving forward in life.

“I decided to get a shark on my arm because to me sharks represent the need to constantly move forward,” said Pagliaro.

Sharks, known for their relentless forward motion, symbolize resilience and perseverance for Pagliaro.

“Every time I see my tattoo it reminds me that although things happen in like you have to move past it and keep going forward.”

This inked reminder encourages her to embrace change, adapt to circumstances, and never lose sight of her goals.

These three Neumann student-athletes showcase the diversity and depth of meaning that tattoos can hold.

From honoring cultural heritage to celebrating sibling bonds and embodying resilience, their tattoos are more than just body art. These tattoos are personal reflections of their identities, beliefs, and aspirations.