Featured Senior: Emmett Blaney

What was your most memorable moment throughout your career at Willamette?

I remember scoring my first goal against Whitworth. A game or so before, I had attempted a free-position and it was saved by the goalie. I remember telling the coaches "Don't worry. I am GOING to make the next one." I got the chance at Whitworth shortly thereafter and this time followed through and scored. I ran into a huge group hug and it was incredible!

Describe your feelings when you found out the season was canceled.

Heartbroken, honestly. This was only my second season ever of lacrosse, and I know that the team could have done so well and improved upon what we'd started last year. It would have been one for the books.

How have you been handling life in quarantine? Are you home or on campus? What's it like learning online and not having practice?

Life in quarantine is okay. Time seems to flow differently. Onde day, I spent the whole day painting flower pots which I definitely wouldn't have had time to do if we still were in season and in-person school. I live in Salem (off-campus). While having extra time is always nice, I would instantly push a button to bring us back to a couple months ago when we were practicing and gearing up for the season. The time and dedication that it took was beyond worth it.

What has your experience as a Bearcat taught you?

Do not sacrifice pieces of yourself to become part of a larger whole.

If you could leave one piece of advice for future Bearcats, what would it be?

I'm sure nearly every senior's answer on this box is going to be something like "appreciate your sport and your experience while you're in it." I won't stray from that trend. One practice over a year ago I remember stretching with the team afterward and watching the sun set (for once it wasn't cloudy). I distinctly remember thinking to myself, "Wow, someday I'm going to want to give anything to have this moment back." Unfortunately, that "someday" came a lot sooner than anticipated. Cheesy, but there it is. Appreciate all the crappy practices and the good practices because soon enough you'd give anything to run some sprints with your best friends.

What are your future plans following graduation?

Career wise? Who knows. I plan to paint a lot more pots. I'm thinking of starting an herb garden.

From their teammates

What was your most memorable moment of Emmett?

Nina Hernandez: Seeing him score his first goal at Puget Sound during our first season.

How has Emmett impacted you in your sport or in life?

Alayna Newland: Emmett is a really motivating source. You can always depend on him to keep the energy high and for him to bring out my competitive spirit.

Nina Hernandez: No one motivates me and pushes me to be a better player more than Emmett. His passion and work ethic in everything he does is truly inspiring.

What makes Emmett special?

Katie Hill: He always feels available to talk to and does anything he can to help a friend out even if his plate is already full.

Nina Hernandez: Emmett is confident, proud, and unique. He plays with no fear in the game of lacrosse, but also in the game of life. Also I don't know anyone more competitive than him. I am truly honored to be his friend and teammate.

Is there anything Emmett brought to the program that will have a lasting impact?

Nina Hernandez: Emmett's mentality will forever reign with the program. He is truly a legacy to all of us. He deserved this season after all that he has done for this team.