At the end of the 2014 spring semester, 42 Southeastern student-athletes exited the University Center with their college degrees in hand and futures ahead of them. This is not only a triumphant moment for the student-athletes, but for their coaches and the athletic department as well; however, one wonders how the athletic department will fare with so many athletes departing the program.

Jay Artigues, the director of the university’s athletic department, is not in the least bit nervous. He is pleased by the amount of graduating athletes in the previous semester and proud of what they have accomplished during their time at the university.

“Having 42 graduates is something we are very proud of,” said Artigues. “The goal for every student-athlete is to walk across the stage, grab that diploma and have a conference championship ring on their finger. Many of these student-athletes did just that.”

Coach Blake Hornbuckle of the women’s soccer program said he will miss two team members who graduated in the spring 2014 semester, Kelsey Salcido and Shanyce Shaw. However, the coach also admits such departures are part of the cycle of life and tradition.

“Kelsey Salcido and Shanyce Shaw both played significant roles within our program during their careers at Southeastern,” said Hornbuckle. “We will miss their personalities, competitive spirit and leadership.  As one era ends, another begins for incoming players and returning players to further their careers and impact the program by representing a consistent tradition.”

As for attracting new student athletes to the university, Hornbuckle states they will use the same methods utilized in previous years.

“We will continue to recruit and attract future student athletes that fit our criteria in all areas through the identification process,” said Hornbuckle.

Artigues is not deterred. He is proud of the 42 graduating athletes and certain the future will be bright for the athletics program. Like Hornbuckle, Artigues feels this transition is just part of a greater cycle.

“Our coaches are constantly recruiting in anticipation of graduation,” said Artigues. “With any good program, you strive to have good class balance.  This is something that each sport takes into consideration when recruiting.”

Many of the 42 athletes who graduated decorated their caps to represent their Lion pride. Though these students have serviced Southeastern athletics with dedication and perseverance, the department views their commencement as an achievement to be proud of, not a loss. The Lion’s Roar / Sara Patrick