All posts by Elijah Thibodeaux, Correspondent

Sports

Pitcher Jayden Voelker draws attention

 

Northern Essex Community College’s baseball team was in the limelight due to one of its standout pitchers, Jayden Voelker’s, outstanding performance.  

Voelker, from the close-knit village of Coventry, Rhode Island, has piqued the interest of scouts with his exceptional pitching abilities and steadfast passion for the game.  

Voelker’s baseball career began in his birthplace of Coventry, where he refined his abilities on local Little League grounds before breaking into the high school ranks. 

 As a strong player for Northern Essex Community College, Voelker has developed as a force to be reckoned with on the mound, with a devastating fastball and precise precision that have made opposing batters struggle to connect. What distinguishes Voelker, however, is not only his athletic ability, but also his relentless work ethic and will for success. Despite overcoming hurdles along the road, Voelker has stayed committed to his quest for perfection, putting in many hours of practice and training to hone his craft and take his game to new heights.  

Voelker hails from an athletic family, and his younger brother, Logan Voelker, is also creating a name for himself in athletics. Logan has followed in Jayden’s footsteps as a great pitcher, demonstrating his own athletic ability on the basketball court and football field. 

As scouts continue to notice Voelker’s remarkable performance on the mound, the future appears promising for the brilliant young pitcher from Coventry. Voelker is focused, driven, and ready to take whatever opportunities arise as he pursues his baseball aspirations.

Editors’ note, ElIjah is a member of the baseball team

 

Home Page News Bytes, Sports, Uncategorized

Baseball team hits a home run: Knights ranked third in national standings

 

Unexpectedly, the Northern Essex Community College (NECC) baseball team has achieved unprecedented success, advancing to the third place in the country. 

Players and advisers are thrilled with the team’s incredible ascent to the top, which has created a historic moment for the college’s sports department. 

Head Coach Jeff Mejia expressed his pride in the team’s achievements, stating, “This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players. We’ve been striving for excellence, and it’s gratifying to see that effort reflected in our national ranking.” 

Talented players, astute coaching, and an unrelenting sense of team spirit all contributed to the squad’s success. 

The athletes have benefited greatly from the guidance and support of advisers and coaches, who have created a culture of growth and unity. 

Team captain, Eric Wainwrignt shared his excitement about the achievement, saying, “Being ranked number 3 in the country is a dream come true for all of us. We’ve been grinding on the field, supporting each other, and it’s fantastic to see that hard work pay off.” 

In light of their newfound status, the team is gearing up for the upcoming playoffs with a renewed sense of determination. 

Pitcher Jayden Voelker shared his thoughts on the team’s future, saying, “We’re not content with just being number 3. We’re setting our sights higher and aiming for that championship.” 

The campus community is excited to watch the next chapters of the NECC baseball team’s incredible adventure come to pass. The number three spot is more than simply a number; it represents the tenacity, camaraderie, and dedication to greatness that characterize Northern Essex Community College’s baseball program. 

Editor’s Note: Elijah Thibodeux is a member of the NECC baseball team. 

Sports

Baseball team presented with Championship rings

 

The 2023 Northern Essex Baseball team returned to Haverhill on Saturday November 25th to receive their Region 21 Championship Rings. 

In a jubilant ceremony that echoed with cheers and applause, the Knights baseball team basked in the glow of their hard-earned success as they were awarded Region 21 championship rings, finishing third in the country marking a historic moment for the team and the entire college community. 

The ceremony, held at the Gymnasium at the Haverhill Campus, was a culmination of months of grit, determination, and outstanding teamwork that propelled the team to victory in the District and Region 21 Championships this season. Coaches, players, families, and supporters gathered to celebrate not just a triumph on the field but a symbol of unity and perseverance that transcended the boundaries of the baseball diamond. 

“I wouldn’t have done all this if it wasn’t for you guys so I want you to hold it,” Said Pitcher of the year Jairo Vasquez. 

The Knights baseball team’s success is particularly noteworthy considering the challenges they faced throughout the season. The players, many of whom are balancing academic commitments alongside their athletic pursuits, demonstrated exceptional resilience and skill, winning the admiration of not only their fellow students but the broader community. 

“I’m happy for them, they worked really hard for this,” said Raynah Thibodeaux parent of Northern Essex Player Elijah Thibodeax. 

The championship rings will undoubtedly serve as enduring symbols of the Knights baseball teams triumph, a legacy that will inspire future generations of athletes within the college. As the players donned their rings with  a sense of collective pride, it marked not just a moment in time but a legacy that will be etched into the history of the Northern Essex baseball program for years to come. 

Editor’s Note: Elijah Thibodeaux is a member of the NECC baseball team.

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Finals week: A test of resilience for students

 

As Northern Essex Community College students enter the final stretch of the semester, the campus is abuzz with a mix of anticipation and determination. 

Finals week, a perennial rite of passage, is near, testing the mettle of students as they navigate exams, projects, and presentations. Finals week begins Dec. 12.

In the bustling library, students huddle over textbooks and laptops, their faces reflecting a blend of concentration and stress. 

The air is charged with a palpable sense of hard work and dedication as individuals from diverse academic disciplines prepare to showcase their knowledge and skills.

“Finals week is always intense, but there’s a kind of shared energy on campus. We’re all in this together, pushing through the last hurdles of the semester,” said student Jayden Voelker

The Student Center serves as a hub of activity, with groups forming impromptu study sessions and conversations about the challenges and triumphs of the semester. 

The camaraderie among students is evident, creating a supportive atmosphere during this crucial academic juncture.

 “It’s a bit stressful, but the collaborative spirit is what helps us get through. We’re all working hard, and there’s a sense of unity that makes it easier to tackle the tough moments,” said student Isabel Amalyia

The college faculty and staff have implemented various support initiatives, from extended library hours to counseling services, recognizing the strain that finals week can impose on students. 

The college’s commitment to student success is underscored by these efforts to provide resources and encouragement.

“We understand that finals week can be challenging, and we want to ensure that our students have the support they need to succeed. Whether it’s additional study resources or a listening ear, we’re here for them,” said Academic Coach Amy Joyal.

As the week progresses, the campus community eagerly anticipates the culmination of the semester. Beyond the academic challenges, finals week serves as a testament to the resilience of Northern Essex students, showcasing their ability to navigate pressure and excel in their studies.

 “It’s a tough week, but it’s also a reminder of how much we’ve learned and grown throughout the semester. We’ve faced challenges, and now it’s about finishing strong,” said student Jaren Megan. 

With notebooks filled and caffeine levels high, Northern Essex students press on, their collective determination painting a vivid picture of the tenacity that defines their academic journey. 

As finals week unfolds, the Northern Essex campus is a testament to the power of community and the pursuit of knowledge.

Sports, Uncategorized

NECC baseball: A fresh start

 

When the Knights came down to their last swing in Greeneville, Tennessee, against program Dallas Eastfield in the Junior College World Series emotions were high. 

When your season ends in Tennessee, even if you don’t make it to the finals, even if you finish third, even if you don’t bring home the natty you should feel good about the accomplishment. 

Only eight teams make it to Tennessee. 

As the Fall rolls around a new class of Knights emerge from all over the state, with that being said there are returners who will take on a bigger role this year going into the 2024 season. 

Certain names include leadoff hitter from Lynn Jomar Moreta, a spring transfer who had a batting average of .354 with 20 stolen bases. 

Also returning are middle infielder Chris Bear from Boston and veteran pitcher Jayden Voelker from Rhode Island. 

One reason for the program’s success is how well the players are good at turning boys to men.

One major concern returners had when others moved on to other programs were who would step up and who would play a leadership role. 

Earlier this week I spoke to year three veteran pitcher Jayden Voelker. I asked him how he feels the team can handle all the preassure with the recent 2023 season and if they can do it all again. 

“Yes I do, we have alot of veterans in big parts of field and in our pitching,’’ said Voelker. “The preassure is always good.”

After a fall double header against Division 2 program Saint Anslem the Knights came home with a win in the first game and a tie game with three runs a piece in the second. The Knights still have some fine tuning to be made in terms of chemistry and getting used to each other but time will tell with the new class of Northen Essex Community College Knights.

Editor’s Note: Elijah Thibodeux is a member of the NECC baseball team.