Fall 2025 Lynx Athletics Recap: Carroll Student-Athletes Boast a Season of Milestones

This Fall, Carroll’s student-athletes delivered one of the most memorable seasons in recent history, a semester defined by breakthrough performances, first-time achievements, and the kind of grit that inspires the entire campus community.

From a history-making women’s soccer run to standout cross country performances on both the regional and national stages, our Lynx student-athletes showed what it means to shape a bright future through hard work and heart.

Women’s Soccer: A Historic Finish & New Era Ahead

This Fall marked a bittersweet milestone for the women’s soccer program as members of the inaugural team—now two years strong—prepare to graduate. They leave behind an incredible legacy.

That legacy was on full display this season when they advanced to the regional semifinals for the first time in program history and finished the season ranked fourth in their division. Their success set a powerful foundation and sparked new interest in the program across the campus and in the community.

Two players, Talula Castanzo and Olivia Gugliuzza, made the All-Tournament Team for women’s soccer. In addition, the following women’s soccer players were named to the NJCAA All-Region Team: Talula Castanzo (1st team), Lana O’Donnell (2nd team), and Michaela West (honorable mention). Their recognition reflects the dedicated work ethic that defined this year’s squad.

As we recruit an all-new roster for next season, the story of this inaugural group is a testament to possibility and a reminder that great futures truly take shape at Carroll.

Women’s Volleyball: Competitive Spirit & Postseason Recognition

Women’s Volleyball turned in a strong season of growth and resilience, finishing a respectable 6th in the region.

The team continue to build momentum for the future, highlighted by the standout performance of Emily McElwaine, who earned a spot on the NJCAA Region 20 All-Tournament Volleyball Team. Her recognition capped a season marked by determination, teamwork, and steady improvement.

Two players also made the NJCAA All-Region Team for volleyball—Emily McElwaine (2nd team) and Micaela Adami (honorable mention)—promising more bright horizons ahead for Carroll volleyball.

Cross Country: Champions, Record-Breakers & a National Debut

Cross country delivered one headline after another this Fall, starting with Jesse Gresh, who surged to become the Region 20 Men’s Champion, marking a first for Carroll. With a bold move more than half a mile from the finish, he opened a 12-second gap that secured the title. Adding to his outstanding achievement, Jesse was also named the NJCAA Region 20 October Athlete of the Month, showcasing his leadership and competitive drive.

Teammate Braylon Frey finished fourth in the Region 20 Men’s Championship, helping the men’s team claim Region 20 Runner-Up. Remarkably, the entire roster is made up of first-year student-athletes, signaling an auspicious future for the Lynx.

On the women’s side, Caroline Vogelsang finished as the Region 20 Runner-Up, continuing her record-setting streak. She has broken school records at every distance she has run and returned to nationals this Fall with experience and confidence.

Nationals: A First for the Men’s Team (and a Snowy Adventure)

For the first time ever, Carroll’s cross country student-athletes traveled as a full group to nationals in Fort Dodge, Iowa, a trip that brought snow, unforgettable team moments, and exceptional results.

What began as a forecast of mild autumnal weather turned into a race day marked by blowing snow, near-freezing temperatures, and ankle-deep mud. Despite this, the Lynx embraced the challenge.

In their first national appearance, the men finished 37th out of 100 teams, an incredible achievement for a freshman-only roster. Even more impressive, they outperformed Potomac State, the team that edged them out at Regionals just two weeks earlier.

Each student-athlete contributed to what Coach Mark Reedy called a “statement season.”

Racing at nationals for the second time, Caroline faced one of the toughest courses of her career. Without spikes and racing in heavy snow, she pushed through falls, near-falls, and thick mud, finishing with her signature positivity and resilience. Caroline has continued to set the standard for the women’s program and remains a role model for the next generation of Lynx runners.

For the first time, Carroll student-athletes also competed in the national Half Marathon Championship, where Jesse and Caroline earned national placements of 91st and 90th, respectively.

A Season That Sets the Stage for What’s Next

Fall 2025 will be remembered not only for its victories but also for its spirit, built when our student-athletes challenge themselves, uplift each other, and represent Carroll with pride.

From record-setting runners to a pioneering women’s soccer team, our Lynx competitors continue to show that great futures take shape at Carroll, one bold step, sprint, or goal at a time.

Here’s to an unforgettable Fall season and to the exciting seasons ahead!

Featured Photo: Carroll’s cross country student-athletes competing in the NJCAA National Championship in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Photo by Nick Raumann.