黑料科 honored four outstanding additions to the Downes Athletic Hall of Fame on October 16 at Rivers Memorial Hall. While the evening recognized remarkable athletic accomplishments, many of the most memorable moments came through the inductees' reflections on the coaches, teammates, family members, and friendships that shaped their journeys.
The Class of 2026 included the 2011 Baseball Team, Jeff LaBranche '79, Jillian (Brown) Coppola '06, and Kaylee (Martin) Grant '08, whose accomplishments helped shape the proud tradition of Golden Bear Athletics.
The ceremony brought together alumni, family members, former teammates, coaches, and friends to celebrate this year's inductees and the contributions they have made to Western New England Athletics.
"We all stand on your shoulders," said Jenn Kolins, director of athletics and recreation. "You have set the standard, you have paved the way, and you have embodied all that the Golden Bear community stands for and aspires to be."
The 2011 Baseball Team was recognized for achieving one of the most significant milestones in Western New England Athletics history. After capturing the Commonwealth Coast Conference Championship and NCAA New England Regional title, the Golden Bears advanced to the NCAA Division III College World Series in Appleton, Wisconsin, becoming one of the top eight teams in the nation and the first baseball team in University history to reach the national championship stage. Their induction was especially meaningful as many former players and coaches returned to campus to celebrate the historic achievement. Current Head Baseball Coach Dan Gomez, who served as an assistant coach during the team's World Series run, reflected on the group's enduring influence on the program. "You didn't just set a standard for Western New England Baseball," Gomez said. "You helped establish what this program, and really this athletic department, could be." Current members of the Golden Bear baseball team were also in attendance, creating a visible connection between the student athletes who helped shape the program's legacy and those who continue it today.
Among this year's inductees was Jeff LaBranche '79, an All-American catcher who played an instrumental role in the early development of the University's baseball program. During his remarks, LaBranche reflected on a pivotal moment during his time at Western New England when financial challenges nearly forced him to leave school. With the support of Head Baseball Coach Patrick Ricci and the University's financial aid office, he was able to continue his education, a decision that would shape the course of his life and career. Looking back on the experience, LaBranche expressed gratitude for the coaches, teammates, and mentors who supported him. "Nobody gets into a Hall of Fame without a lot of people helping him along the way," he reflected.
Jillian (Brown) Coppola '06 was honored as one of the most accomplished goalkeepers in program history, helping lead the field hockey team to its first conference championship and NCAA Tournament appearance. Reflecting on her time at Western New England, Coppola spoke about the challenges, triumphs, and relationships that shaped her both on and off the field. She credited athletics with teaching her one of life's most important lessons, being present for the people and moments that matter most. "The biggest thing my career at Western New England taught me was what it truly means to show up," she reflected.
Kaylee (Martin) Grant '08 was recognized for a remarkable cross country career that included conference championships, record setting performances, and a lasting impact on the women's program. In her remarks, Grant looked beyond race results to the friendships and memories that defined her time at Western New England, recalling teammates who became lifelong friends and coaches who helped shape her growth as both an athlete and a person. "The best part of my running career is who I got to share it with," Grant shared.
Named in honor of coach William "Bill" Downes, the Hall of Fame recognizes student athletes, coaches, administrators, contributors, and teams whose accomplishments have strengthened the University's athletic legacy. During Downes' 45 years of service to Western New England, he influenced generations of students and helped establish the culture of excellence that continues to define Golden Bear Athletics today.
"The Downes Athletics Hall of Fame represents the very best of the Golden Bear community. It honors those who have distinguished themselves through their talents, their commitment, and their leadership," said Kolins.
The Class of 2026 joins a distinguished group of former student athletes, teams, coaches, and contributors whose accomplishments have helped build the proud tradition of Western New England Athletics. Throughout the evening, stories of perseverance, friendship, mentorship, and leadership underscored the enduring impact of athletics and the relationships formed through competition. Their accomplishments continue to inspire future generations of Golden Bears.
Please join us in congratulating the Class of 2026 Downes Hall of Fame Inductees.
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