Congratulations to four Minisink Valley seniors who have signed Division I/II NCAA National Letters of Intent (NLI):
Division I
Samuel Anderson, Boston University, Track & Field
Sam holds 10 school records and is the Section IX all-time indoor record in the 800m; two-time divisional champion; two-time Section IX champion; second-place winner at the 600m indoor at the State meet; and an All-American who placed fourth at the indoor Nationals mix 4x4 relay team. He was also the anchor leg to the NYSPHSAA and Federational state 4x400 champion relay team.
"There is a saying, 'Make the comeback greater than the setback,'" said Varsity Coach James Beck. "In Sam’s case, he took that saying and ran with it. After losing his junior year outdoor season to an injury, Sam never gave up. He persevered through the tough times, trained harder, and refused to let the setback define him. His comeback for his senior year is shaping up to be one of the greatest accomplishments this track program has ever witnessed. After demonstrating such resilience and determination, Sam has committed to continuing his track and field career at Boston University, where I'm confident he'll make an even bigger impact. This is just the beginning of an incredible journey, and we’re all excited to see what’s next for him."
Ryan Capo, Niagara University, Cross Country and Track & Field
Ryan was the team's Cross Country Section IX Qualifier for the New York State Championship in 2024; and Cross Country captain in his senior year.
"Ryan's outgoing personality, sense of humor, leadership, and running talent will be greatly missed next year," said Track & Field Coach Ed Sucich. "He really stepped up his commitment to excellence by increasing his summer training over the last two years. Ryan was one of the best Cross Country runners in Section IX this past year and we wish him luck as he continues his career with Niagara University."
“In addition to his unique personality and academic prowess, Ryan is a very talented runner who has developed a dedicated work ethic. Ryan’s hard work has led to remarkably consistent improvement year after year,” said Cross Country Varsity Coach Christopher Ruckdeschel. “His average pace per XC race has dropped about 30 seconds year by year. His Section IX State Qualifier performance in XC went from 19:30 his freshman year, to 18:16 his sophomore year, to 17:10 his junior year, to 16:20 his senior year. His senior year finish was 8th overall, and he earned the 5th individual spot qualifying him to compete at the State XC meet. Also, that time earned Ryan the 12th fastest Section IX time in Minisink Valley Cross Country history.”
Kaleigh Murphy, Iona University, Track & Field
Kaleigh is part of three school record relays. She is a two-time state medalist on the 4x400 relay teams; and is also a two-time All-American in the mix 4x400 relay at Nationals.
"Kaleigh is an outstanding multi-sport athlete who has excelled in both track and lacrosse throughout her high school career," said Varsity Coach James Beck. "This past winter, her success on the track has taken center stage, leading her to shift her focus more toward running as she prepares for the next level. Balancing intense double practices, she continues to show incredible work ethic, resilience, and a fun, competitive spirit. I have no doubt she’ll make an immediate impact at Iona College and quickly rise to be one of their top runners."
Division II
Patricia Deslandes, East Stroudsburg University, Wrestling
Patricia is a two-time team captain, two-time Section IX champion and earned third-place honors at the New York State Invitational.
"Patricia was a team leader and will be missed tremendously missed by her teammates and coaches," said Varsity Coach Dan Gallo. " She was always a positive presence at practice and pushed herself and her teammates to improve each day. We are all excited for her and her family as she continues her academic and athletic career at East Stroudsburg University."
