Rosemont College and the Rosemont College Athletic Department has announced the indefinite suspension of the Rosemont College Ramblers Lacrosse program citing not enough student-athletes to constitute a team. This decision comes one year after the April 2, 2007, announcement which stated that after forfeiting numerous games the team would not continue the season out of safety concerns and respect for the team’s players and its opponents.
With the exception of the 2007-2008 season, the Rosemont College Ramblers have successfully fielded a team since 1997 when the program started. The 2002-2003 season marked an increase in participation which helped to lead the team to the PAC semi-finals in 2004. The team made several playoff appearances and the momentum carried the program until the 2006-2007 season when a majority of the team, consisting of seniors, graduated. Declining enrollment numbers and lack of interest among new student athletes also played a part in the decline.
“The athletics department sees the indefinite suspension as an opportunity to revaluate our program,” said Lynn Rothenhoefer, Athletic Director. “Our intent is to take the necessary time needed to develop a program that is attractive to all future athletes.”
Currently the team is talking and working with the Pennsylvania Athletic Conference and Rosemont’s Office of Admissions to increase awareness of the team and the importance of athletics on one’s college experience. Additionally, Rothenhoefer has announced she will no longer serve as head coach for the team. Applications are currently being sought for a new coaching staff.
“Serving as the Athletic Director and Head Coach was a challenge,” said Rothenhoefer. “I was able to run practice and attend games, but I was unable to place a strong emphasis on recruiting, which plays such a critical role in developing a thriving team.”
For more information on Rosemont College’s Athletics Department contact Lynn Rothenhoefer at 610.527.0200 ext. 4265 or visit www.rosemont.edu