Westwood, MA --- Five WPI spring student-athletes were named to the sixth-annual NEWMAC All-Sportsmanship Team, as announced as part of the league's postseason award program.  The Engineers honored include seniors Eric DePiero (Beverly, MA) from Baseball, Jack Adiletta (Bolton, MA) from Men's Track and Field, Olivia Spielberger (Hingham, MA) and Nicole Miller (Hanover, MA) from Women's Rowing and sophomore Suzannah Figler (Baltimore, MD) from Softball.

The NEWMAC Sportsmanship Team is intended to recognize one student-athlete from each team, in every sport, that best demonstrates the ideals of the NEWMAC and its Code of Conduct, regardless of their overall performance or statistics for the season.   The honorees, selected by their coaching staff, have distinguished themselves through demonstrated acts of sportsmanship and ethical behavior that go beyond the sport's playing rules and etiquette.
 
What the coaches are saying:

Brendan Casey - Head Baseball Coach on Eric DePiero  - "Eric was a great teammate, always putting others first. His energy was infectious and created a positive environment for the team."
 
Heather Ross - Head Softball Coach on Suzannah Figler - "There is no one more deserving of this recognition than Suz.  As a sophomore walk-on, she quickly found herself emersed in our team culture and was know for being a great teammate on and off the field for others.  She quickly developed relationships with our team and among the coaching staff and was someone we could all rely on whether it was getting the pitchers prepared, keeping the bench energized, or pinch running even while being in a cast the second half of season.  We are so grateful to have her on our team!"
 
Emily Dippel - Head Track and Field Coach on Jack Adiletta - "Whether you were on Jack's team or not, he was always willing to catch your step, offer words of encouragement, and of course get you hyped up!  Jack's energy is infectious! He could often be found at the center of the hype circle amping his teammates up.  Jack faced his fair share of injuries in his career and demonstrates what it means to be grateful for every opportunity you get to compete."
 
Emily Dippel - Head Track and Field Coach on Olivia Spielberger - "Olivia has a natural kindness that compels everyone in her presence to feel cared for and valued.  Olivia faced major injuries in her career and met each one with a positive mindset and an unshakable determination to get back to the sport she loves.  Olivia had a standout season which often went unrecognized because of her humble attitude.  She models how to let your actions speak louder than your words, how to be a good teammate, and more importantly how to be a good person."
 
Jason Steele - Head Women's Rowing Coach on Nicole Miller - "Nicole  embodies the essence of sportsmanship, showcased through her support of teammates, respect for competitors, and deliberate approach to training and personal development.   Never one to cut-corners, Nicole's patience and hard work has seen her develop into an athlete who represents the best of the NEWMAC."
 
NEWMAC Release