By: Jackson Vukman
Gallery: (5-2-2026) 2026 Club Sports Celebration
Last week, RMU Club Sports held the 5th annual Club Sports Celebration with food, games, and awards to honor all of RMU's Club Sport community members. Check out the gallery and the award winners from the event.
Award Recipient Bios
Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year: Luke Snavely, Men's Soccer
Finalists: Matthew Bennett (Rugby), Wade Daniels (ACHA D3 Hockey), Andrew Finnegan (ACHA D1 Hockey), Kyle Le (Volleyball), Luke Snavely (Soccer)
Luke Snavely - The 2026 Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award is proudly presented to the president of the Men's Club Soccer team, Luke Snavely. Luke has proven to be an outstanding student-leader who defines academic excellence and selfless dedication to the RMU community. Luke maintains an impressive 4.00 GPA while navigating a rigorous dual-degree path. He is completing a Bachelor of Science in Statistics and Data Science alongside a Master of Science in Data Science through the School of Data Intelligence & Technology.
A true pillar of campus life, Luke's leadership extends far beyond the soccer field. As the President of the Sport Analytics Club, a FYSP mentor, and the current President of Club Soccer, he is described by his peers and mentors as a leader who embodies "sacrifice," consistently putting the organization's needs above his own to ensure the club's long-term growth.
Luke's contribution to the RMU Club Soccer program is unprecedented. This past year, he performed a "triple-threat" role for the team. Recognized as one of the team's best players on the field, Luke proved to be an elite competitor. Luke also stepped in many ways by managing game-day tactics and leading practices. Luke has also actively worked to professionalize the club by spearheading the hiring of a dedicated coach to ensure the program's development for future generations.
From organizing logistical details to serving as the heart of the team's defense and strategy, Luke has proven to be an invaluable asset to the club sports department. We are honored to name Luke the 2026 Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year and look forward to seeing the incredible impact he will undoubtedly make in his future endeavors.
Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year: Grace Oklota, Women's Bowling
Finalists: Grace Oklota (Bowling), Marlee Mancini (Basketball & Soccer), Bri Medved (ACHA D2 Hockey), Maggie Moore (ACHA D2 Hockey), Bailey Watson (Volleyball)
Grace Oklota - The 2026 Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award is proudly presented to Grace Oklota, a standout member of the Women's Club Bowling team. Grace perfectly captures the spirit of this award, balancing elite athletic performance with an impressive academic record that ranks among the best in her class.
A student in the School of Health Professions, Grace has maintained a 4.00 GPA throughout her RMU career while pursuing a degree in Advanced Medical Imaging Technology with a focus on Nuclear Medicine. Significant milestones mark her academic journey: she successfully passed her professional board exams on her first attempt and has been selected as the featured speaker for her major at this year's graduation ceremony. Beyond the classroom, Grace has excelled in high-stakes environments during her clinical rotations at UPMC Presbyterian and the VA Hospital, proving her capability as a future leader in the healthcare field.
On the lanes, Grace is a fierce and focused competitor. As a vital member of the Women's Club Bowling team, she has been a model of consistency and excellence. This season, she led the team with the highest scoring average and earned multiple awards in tournament play. Known as a dedicated team player, Grace's ability to perform under pressure has been a key factor in the team's success during competition.
Whether she is mastering complex medical imaging or leading her team to a tournament victory, Grace approaches every challenge with intelligence and determination. Her transition from a decorated student-athlete to a healthcare professional is a testament to her hard work and discipline. We are honored to name Grace Oklota the 2026 Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year and wish her continued success as she begins her professional career.
Coach of the Year: Kayla Pierce, Women's Rugby & David Williams, Baseball
Finalists: David Adams (Bowling), Bryan Byrd (Roller Hockey), Shawn Crago (M. rugby), Michael Joseph (Hockey), Kayla Pierce (W. Rugby), Dave Williams (Baseball)
Kayla Pierce - We are proud to announce that the first 2026 Coach of the Year Award is presented to Kayla Pierce, Head Coach of the Women's Rugby team. Kayla has proven to be a transformative force for the program, embodying the qualities of a dedicated mentor, strategist, and advocate for her student-athletes.
Since taking on the role only a few years ago, Kayla has done more than just coach the game; she has built a culture of unwavering support and success. Her "player-first" philosophy defines her leadership. Whether navigating the complexities of a competitive season or providing a steady hand to her players through personal challenges, Kayla's commitment to her team's well-being is unmatched. Her players know that she "always has their backs" on and off the field, a testament to the deep trust and respect she has cultivated within the club.
Under her guidance this past year, the Women's Rugby program has reached new heights of competitive success and organizational stability. Her ability to lead the team through adversity while maintaining a high standard of performance has made her an invaluable asset to the C;ub Sports department.
Kayla's influence extends beyond the final whistle, as she continues to shape a program rooted in inclusivity, resilience, and team pride. We are honored to recognize her hard work and dedication with this award and thank her for the profound impact she continues to make on the lives of our student-athletes.
Dave Williams - We are honored to name David Williams, Head Coach of the Baseball team, as the second 2026 Coach of the Year. Dave's leadership has cultivated a new era for the program, characterized by historic milestones and a standard of excellence that has earned national attention.
This past season, Dave led the team to its first playoff appearance in school history—a landmark achievement that was only the beginning of an unforgettable run. Under his tactical guidance and steady leadership, the team defied the odds to become World Series runners-up. This weekend, Dave is taking the team back as the District III West Champions. Dave's ability to motivate his players on the highest stage has transformed the program into a legitimate powerhouse, proving that with the right vision, success is always within reach.
Dave's impact in the dugout is felt daily. He is more than a strategist; he has instilled a winning culture that is evident in every game the team plays. With the program back in serious contention, it is clear that the success of last season was no fluke, but rather influenced by Dave's tireless commitment to the game and his athletes.
Beyond the field, David has earned the deep respect of the Club Sports department for his professionalism and his selflessness toward his team. We are proud to recognize David Williams for his contributions to the baseball program and thank him for the profound impact he has made on the lives of our student-athletes.
Teams of the Year: Men's Rugby & Baseball
Finalists: Baseball, Women's Basketball, Roller Hockey, Men's Rugby, Women's Soccer
The 2026 Team of the Year Award is proudly presented to two programs that have dominated their respective fields and met every goal over the past year.
Men's Rugby - The first team to win this award is Men's Rugby. In a historic fall campaign that redefined the program's standard of excellence, the Colonials proved to be a dominant force, culminating in a season that hasn't been seen at RMU in years. The Colonials finished their campaign with an elite 10–1 record, a journey that began in mid-August and resulted in the longest season in the club's 23-year history. Their success was built on a foundation of discipline and grit, totaling 47 practices and 14 weeks of rigorous training. This dedication paid off as the team secured the ARU Division IV (4) Conference Championship with a perfect undefeated league record.
The season reached a triumphant peak at the NCR Challenge Cup Regional Final, also known as the Steel Belt Bowl. Facing off against Le Moyne University, RMU delivered a "statement performance," winning 49–12 in a decisive blowout. Led by the composure of junior captain Nick Chromy and senior fly-half Matt Bennett, the team showcased a high-octane offense and a suffocating defense. Samy Bayer earned "Player of the Match" honors for his relentless defensive pressure and a highlight-reel try that energized the Colonial sideline.
Beyond the trophies, the 2025–2026 season was about growth and culture. The roster grew to 25 players, the largest since 2019, ensuring that the program's foundation remains strong even as they bid farewell to senior contributors. By meeting every preseason goal—including a pivotal victory over D2 Kent State—the team proved they belong among the elite. The Men's Rugby performance this year was more than just a series of wins; it was a masterclass in teamwork and resilience. We congratulate the Colonials on their ARU Championship and Steel Belt Bowl victory, and we are honored to name them a 2026 Team of the Year.
Baseball - Joining Men's Rugby as a 2026 Team of the Year is Men's Club Baseball. The 2025–2026 season has been a landmark chapter for the program, defined by a historic rise to national distinction. After a legendary 2025 run that saw the Colonials reach the NCBA Division III World Series Championship Game, the team has proven that its success was only the beginning.
Following their finish as the National Championship Runner-Up—the highest finish in school history—the Colonials entered this season ranked #2 in the nation with a target on their backs. They have met that challenge head-on, recently securing the District III West Championship dominantly. With this latest title, the team is officially heading back to the regional playoffs, continuing their quest to return to the national stage.
Throughout this year, Club Baseball has remained a dominant force, showcasing a blend of disciplined pitching and explosive offense. Their ability to maintain such a high level of play while transitioning from "underdogs" to "the team to beat" speaks to the incredible culture and leadership within the dugout.
Beyond the trophies and the conference win percentages, RMU Club Baseball has established itself as a premier program within the NCBA and a gold standard for RMU Club Sports. From their historic World Series appearance to their most recent District title, the Men's Baseball team has exemplified resilience, excellence, and a winning tradition. We are proud to honor their continued success as a 2026 Team of the Year.
Rookie of the Year: Lily Clifford (W2 ACHA Hockey) & Nate Hoffman (Men's Roller Hockey)
Finalists: Anna Bradley (W. Basketball), Lily Clifford (W2 ACHA Hockey), Nate Hoffman (Men's Roller Hockey), Steven Pribozie (ACHA D3 Hockey), Brady Steiner (Baseball)
This year's Rookie of the Year Award is presented to two student-athletes who have made a profound impact on their respective programs during their first year on campus. Both recipients have demonstrated a rare combination of immediate athletic dominance and the foundational leadership that promises a bright future for our Club Sports department
Lily Clifford - The first winner is Lily Clifford. From the moment she first stepped onto the ice this season, Lily made it clear that she was ready to compete at the highest level. Immediately earning a spot on the first line, Lily established herself as a cornerstone of the team's strategy, showcasing a level of confidence and poise rarely seen in a first-year player.
Lily's impact is defined by her exceptional "two-way" game. A relentless force on both ends of the ice, she is just as likely to track back and shut down an opponent's top line as she is to spark a scoring chance on the same shift. This high hockey IQ allows her to make smart, decisive moves under intense pressure. Whether the team was ahead or fighting through a tough stretch, Lily's consistency never wavered; she showed up day after day ready to produce and lead.
Beyond her statistical contributions, Lily has emerged as a natural leader within the locker room. Despite being one of the youngest players on the roster, her kindness and the way she conducts herself off the ice have earned her the deep respect of her teammates. She embodies the "never give up" attitude that defines our program, consistently putting in the hard work and effort required to succeed.
For her game-changing ability, her defensive reliability, and her remarkable character, we are proud to name Lily Clifford a 2026 Rookie of the Year. We look forward to watching her continue to lead and inspire this team for years to come.
Nate Hoffman - The second winner is Nate Hoffman. In his debut season with the Roller Hockey program, Nate delivered an offensive performance that few rookies in the history of the team have ever matched. From day one, Nate established himself as a premier scoring threat, possessing a natural "nose for the net" and a relentless drive to produce.
Nate's statistics this year speak for themselves. Leading the team in both goals and total points, he finished the season with an astonishing 19 goals and 23 points in just 16 games. Averaging well over a point per game, he proved to be a consistent engine for the team's offense. His breakout performance came during the Philadelphia tournament, where he notched 11 points in a mere four games—a dominant stretch that showcased his ability to elevate his play when the stakes were at their highest.
While his scoring touch is undeniable, Nate's impact on the team extends to his work ethic and his ability to lead by example on the rink. He stepped into a high-pressure role as a first-year player and immediately became the person the team looked to for a spark. His "produce-at-all-costs" mentality and his ability to find the back of the net in crucial moments have made him an indispensable asset to the roster.
For his record-setting performance, his offensive creativity, and his outstanding contributions to the team's success this season, we are proud to name Nate Hoffman a 2026 Rookie of the Year. With a debut season this impressive, the future of our Roller Hockey program is in excellent hands.
Captain's Honor Award: Nicholas Chromey (Men's Rugby) & Brianna Medved (ACHA D2 Hockey)
Finalists: Larissa Bastianini (W. Soccer), Nicholas Chromey (M. Rugby), Heath Mackulin (Baseball), Brianna Medved (W2 ACHA Hockey), Jackson Vukman (ACHA D3 Hockey)
The Captain's Honor Award is presented to an athlete who exemplifies the highest standards of leadership, integrity, and dedication. This year, we are proud to recognize two students for their exceptional ability to inspire their teammates and elevate the entire program.
Nick Chromey - The first recipient is Nicholas Chromey of the Men's rugby Team. Nick's leadership style is defined by his relentless drive and his refusal to settle for anything less than his team's best. He is a leader who leads from the front, constantly challenging his teammates to push past their limits and hold themselves accountable. It was this competitive fire and "lead-by-example" mentality that served as the engine for the team's historic run this past season, pushing the squad through a demanding schedule all the way to a Championship victory and a celebrated Bowl Game win.
However, Nick's impact goes far beyond the scoreboard. A "lovely leader" in every sense of the word, he balances his intense competitive nature with a genuine care for the well-being of his teammates. He understands that a championship team is built on more than just talent; it is built on trust and brotherhood. By fostering a culture of mutual respect and unity, Nick became the steady hand that guided the team through adversity, ensuring that every player felt motivated and supported.
For his unwavering commitment to excellence, his ability to inspire those around him, and his role in bringing a championship home, we are honored to present Nicholas Chromey with the 2026 Captain's Honor Award.
Bri Medved - Our second recipient of the Captain's Honor Award is Brianna Medved, the foundational heart and soul of the Women's D2 Ice Hockey team. Serving as captain since the program's creation four years ago, Bri has been a primary builder of the team's identity, working tirelessly to build a program rooted in passion, resilience, and mutual respect.
Bri's leadership is defined by her "team-first" mindset. She is the type of leader who would "go to war" for anyone in her locker room, consistently putting the needs of her teammates above her own. Beyond her physical play on the ice—where she led the defensive unit with poise and grit all season—it is her ability to connect with people that sets her apart. Bri is a master communicator who can motivate a wide range of personalities, keeping the bench focused during high-pressure games while always maintaining a positive and uplifting environment.
Perhaps her greatest legacy is the culture she has cultivated off the ice. Bri has intentionally fostered an atmosphere of trust and vulnerability, allowing her teammates to grow closer and work more effectively as a unit. By leading with heart and integrity, she has created a safe, competitive, and supportive space that will endure long after she hangs up her skates.
The D2 Ice Hockey program simply would not be where it is today without Bri's vision and selflessness. She is a true role model for fellow student-athletes, and we are proud to honor her with the 2026 Captain's Honor Award in recognition of her years of extraordinary leadership.
Team MVP: Devin Rohrich (ACHA D1 Hockey) & Bailey Watson (Women's Volleyball)
Finalists: Severo Gordon (M. Bowling), Ben Korol (M. Roller Hockey), Devin Rohrich (ACHA D1 Hockey), Mackenzie Walkowiak (ACHA D2 Hockey), Bailey Watson (W. Volleyball)
The Team MVP award is reserved for those who serve as a definitive heartbeat of their program—athletes who combine elite skill with an unbreakable commitment to their teammates.
Bailey Watson - Our first recipient of the Team MVP award is Bailey Watson of the Women's Volleyball team. A leader who defines the word "dedicated," Bailey has been a driving force behind her team's success, combining a sharp tactical mind with a heart that is entirely committed to her teammates' well-being.
Bailey's impact starts long before the first serve. As an incredibly organized captain, she arrives at every practice with a clear, structured plan, ensuring the team is always moving toward a common goal. Her leadership was on full display this season as she helped secure major tournament victories. Under her guidance, the team has gone undefeated in pool play and captured championship titles, wins that highlight the depth and competitive grit she has instilled in the roster. She is a captain who respects her players deeply, making it her mission to ensure every member of the roster feels valued while never losing sight of the team's drive to win.
Her leadership is defined by an ability to balance high-level competitiveness with genuine empathy. On and off the court, Bailey is famously outgoing and inclusive—the kind of "team-first" player who makes sure things work out no matter the obstacle. She balances high-level competitiveness with genuine empathy, respecting her players deeply and ensuring everyone feels valued while maintaining the focus required to win at a competitive level. Her teammates know her as the person who is always there, no matter what, providing a steady hand through every high and low of the season.
For her exceptional organizational leadership, her selfless "team-before-self" attitude, and the profound respect she has earned from her peers and coaches alike, we are proud to recognize Bailey Watson as a 2026 Team MVP.
Devin Rohrich - Our second recipient, Devin Rohrich of the Men's D1 Ice Hockey team, has consistently exceeded every expectation, cementing himself as one of the most dominant offensive forces to ever lace up skates for the program. On the ice, Devin's production this season has been nothing short of historic. Finishing the year with 28 goals and 49 points, he proved to be a constant threat every time he stepped onto the ice. While his consistency throughout the season was remarkable, it was his performance in the final stretch that truly defined his MVP status.
With the season on the line, Devin reached another gear, exploding for 7 goals and 9 points in the final two games of the regular season alone. This incredible display of "big-game" talent not only secured a crucial win for the team but served as a masterclass in leadership under pressure.
Off the ice, Devin's impact is just as profound. He sets a standard in the locker room, holding himself and his teammates to a professional level of excellence while maintaining the positive culture necessary for a high-performing squad. His teammates look to him not just for his scoring ability, but for the poise and integrity he brings to the sport every day.
For his relentless work ethic, his offensive brilliance, and his ability to carry the team when it mattered most, we are proud to recognize Devin Rohrich as a 2026 Team MVP.
A note from the Director of Competitive & Recreational Sports, Payton Ernst
Thank you to everyone who helped make this day possible, and to everyone who came out to support our club athletes. Without the tireless hard work and commitment to the sports our students love, this day wouldn't have been possible.
To our coaches and student leaders—thank you for stepping up as reliable sources of support for your teams while balancing busy schedules outside of RMU. I truly couldn't do it without you.
To our full-time staff—thank you not only for your help during this event, but for everything you do day in and day out to grow our club sports programs.
And to our interns and student workers—you handle every task like pros, and I appreciate everything you do each and every day.
It has been a year of growth and success for our club teams, and I can't wait to see all that our student-athletes continue to accomplish and how much our department continues to grow.
