HOme game special: News coverage inside Published independently by students at Penn State

Graphic by Carson Schultz Page A2 | Thursday, April 15, 2021 versus The Daily Collegian FaceTime verdict How a trio of Penn State players made the decision to return to the program By Max Ralph my family, I talked to the guys, I that’s what he has in Dotson. The Daily Collegian talked to the coaches, I felt good. Dotson also said the call with It felt right to come back, and I his teammates opened up an av- After the pandemic-marred just want to show that I still have enue for them to bounce ideas off 2020 season created an extra more on the table. of each other and discuss “every year of eligibility for all collegiate “I’m gonna be a different player little thing.” In the end, the trio athletes, three Penn State play- this year.” had a consensus. ers were faced with a decision as If Brisker is to be that “dif- “We came to the decision that it they walked away from Beaver ferent player,” he’ll likely make was best for us, best for the team Stadium victorious in their final waves in the Big Ten. He ended [and] best for our families,” Dot- game: to stay with the program 2020 with career marks in tack- son said. “We felt that it was the or move on. les and passes defensed, result- right decision to come back and Jaquan Brisker had just com- ing in an All-Big Ten third team just give it our all every single pleted a senior campaign in selection. day.” which he garnered All-Big Ten A season that exceeds those Brisker recalled the trio felt it attention, Jahan Dotson led the hallmarks for Brisker might needed to set the record straight conference in receiving yards as be considered “remarkable” that the 2020 season wasn’t re- a junior and Tariq Castro-Fields by some, which is the exact flective of what they as individu- played in just three games after motivation behind one of his als or Penn State as a program a season-ending injury cut his counterparts’ return. stands for. senior campaign short. “Every year, an expectation “We have a chip on our shoul- All three made the decision to I have for myself is to be better der,” Brisker said. “We’re gonna Lily LaRegina/Collegian return to Happy Valley. than the last,” Dotson said. “I had bring back the normal. We can’t Safety Jaquan Brisker catches a ball during warm-ups before Penn State Each of them was in a different a pretty solid season last year, but set the standard how we did last football’s game against Michigan State on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020. situation with his own reasons to I want to have a remarkable sea- year. We have to go above and stay or go, so how did they arrive son, one that you guys will never beyond.” one pass defense, which was still was on FaceTime or not. On or at that conclusion? Together. forget.” It only took Castro-Fields enough to grab an All-Big Ten off the field, playing video games According to Brisker, the trio The 5-foot-11 wide receiver about a month of self-reflection honorable mention. with Brisker, or just hanging created a group message and finished his 2020 campaign av- before he decided his legacy at Despite the desire to prove around with Castro-Fields, Dot- decided to join a FaceTime call eraging 98.2 receiving yards per Penn State wasn’t ready to be himself, the defensive back is just son said the trio is “like this” — “randomly” one night to discuss game with eight touchdowns in completed. happy he’s back on the field. as he held up his crossed fingers. their futures. just nine games. For a player “Of course injuries are frus- “My relationship with those “We told ourselves we’re gonna Despite those “We felt that it was who was voted trating, but I’m just blessed with guys is unmatched,” Dotson said. come back, and it’s gonna be bet- numbers and the All-Big Ten third the opportunity to come back,” Inspired by the way Franklin ter than we did last year,” Brisker most receiving the right decision to team as a junior Castro-Fields said. “To be a lead- talks to the team about champi- said. “We’re coming back for a yards in the con- come back and just and had a prom- er and improve my game even onship habits and setting a stan- reason.” ference, he was ising start as a more, I’m just blessed with the dard, Dotson said he thinks the The Nittany Lions started only tagged as an give it our all every senior come to a opportunity.” trio will use the unique opportu- their year 0-5 and despite fin- All-Big Ten third single day.” halt because of in- Franklin likely also feels nity in front of it to address some ishing with four straight wins, team member. jury, it’s not hard “blessed” to have Castro-Fields unfinished business. the season still went down As he walks Jahan Dotson for Castro-Fields and Brisker returning, as he said “We wanted to be those lead- as the program’s worst since into meetings ev- wide receiver to keep that chip the cornerbacks and secondary ers on the team who set the stan- 2004. ery day, Dotson on his shoulder. as a whole have a shot to be “re- dard for years to come after us.” Brisker didn’t feel like he could writes two words “I have so much ally good” in 2021 — in large part Dotson said. “We know that Penn walk away with that taste in his at the top of his notes. more in the tank,” Castro-Fields due to the pair’s experience. State football is used to winning, mouth. “Be legendary.” said. “I just haven’t been able to “It’s exciting because, when and that’s what we have to do. “I always had in my heart that He said his goal is to leave his show it yet.” you develop that over time, those “We felt like this was the perfect I couldn’t leave on that note. It mark on Penn State and the col- The Upper Marlboro, Mary- veterans are able to teach the opportunity for us to showcase was a little more personal for lege football world as a whole. land, native racked up 52 tackles, young guys how we do things at our talents, meet that standard me and some of the guys on the As for his coach, James Franklin 10 passes defensed and two inter- Penn State,” Franklin said. and achieve some great goals.” team,” Brisker said. “We knew said the best situations happen ceptions in his junior season. In The three returners were we had more to give to the team when a team’s goals line up with his three games as a senior, he bound to make a decision with To email reporter: [email protected]. and to the fans. Once I talked to individual players’ goals — and already picked up 12 tackles and one another’s insight, whether it Follow him on Twitter at @mralph59. What to watch for in final spring game By Seth Engle NFL-bound Pat Freiermuth — The Daily Collegian is off to the NFL, as the tight ends coach in Urban Meyer’s There may be nothing that ex- Jacksonville Jaguars offense. emplifies the Penn State student His replacement, Ty Howle, is body’s love for the football team no stranger to the atmosphere of quite like the Blue-White game. Beaver Stadium. Drawing crowds of over 75,000 Howle, a four-year letterwin- every year, while thousands more ner on Penn State’s offensive line watch from the luxury of their TV from 2009-2013, started at center sets, the Blue-White intrasquad and left guard in his playing ca- scrimmage is so much more than reer with the Nittany Lions, be- just the final spring practice of ing named a captain his senior the year — it’s an experience. season. However, for most of Penn Aside from his playing career, State’s student body, there will Howle has eight years coaching be no Blue-White experience for experience, including the 2020 the second-straight year, and it’s season in which he served as an likely to be a different setup than offensive analyst for the blue and a typical year anyway. white, working closely with both With the coronavirus pandemic Lily LaRegina/Collegian Bowen and offensive line coach in full swing by the originally slat- Wide receiver Parker Washington breaks past Michigan State’s defense on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020. Phil Trautwein. ed game last spring, Beaver Sta- The final spring practice will dium sat still on a day that usually freshmen the opportunity to actu- dinator Kirk Ciarocca and began didate and simultaneously lead- give a first look at the tight end brings an upswing of electricity ally see the Nittany Lions play in the search for his replacement. ing the Buckeyes to a spot in room after the losses of Freier- across Happy Valley. person, and — most of all — giv- Within a day, the decision had the College Football Playoff. muth and Bowen. This year, just freshmen will be ing the players a chance to play been made to hire former Texas Yurcich has the experience As for Poindexter, his accom- in attendance to watch the histor- under the watch of fans for the offensive coordinator Mike Yur- and resume to take Penn State’s plishments speak for themselves. ic scrimmage, so the same level first time since the fall. cich, who became the third man offense to the next level, and the Inducted into the College Foot- of energy typically showcased for Here’s a look at some of the to hold the position at Penn State final spring practice will be the ball Hall of Fame in 2020, he is this game will have to wait a bit major storylines to look for in the last four years. first time fans will get to see what coming to the Nittany Lions with longer. during Saturday’s final spring In his lone season with the he’ll bring to the gridiron. new goals in mind. Even with limited attendance, practice. Longhorns, Yurcich’s offense Other new faces to look for After spending four seasons this year’s final spring practice Like Penn State has been ac- ranked second in the Big 12 and on the sideline include tight end at Purdue under the same role, will be an opportunity for fans to customed to over the course of eighth nationally, averaging 42.7 coach Ty Howle and co-defen- Poindexter will get his first get an early glimpse at next fall’s the last few years, there were a points per game in 2020. sive coordinator/safeties coach chance to coach in front of Penn Nittany Lion squad. handful of coaching changes for One year prior in 2019, Yur- Anthony Poindexter. State fans at this year’s final This year’s iteration will the Nittany Lions this offseason. cich played the same role for After three years under Frank- spring practice with a veteran serve three main purposes: giv- After just one season together, Ohio State — serving as a key lin’s staff as tight end coach, safety room behind him. ing coaches the opportunity to James Franklin and the program factor behind Justin Fields’ de- Tyler Bowen — who played Visit collegian.psu.edu to read test out new schemes, giving parted ways with offensive coor- velopment into a Heisman can- a part in the development of the full story.

No. Name Position/Elig. 23 Curtis Jacobs LB/Fr. 48 Cody Romano LB/So. 80 Justin. Weller WR/Jr. 0 Jonathan Sutherland S/Jr. 23 John Lovett RB/Sr. 49 Michael Wright SN/Fr. 84 Theo Johnson TE/Fr. 1 JaQuan Brisker S/Sr. No. Name Position/Elig. 50 Max Chizmar LB/Jr. 84 Benjamin Wilson WR/Sr. 2 Ta’Quan Roberson QB/Fr. 24 Jeffrey Davis Jr. CB/Fr. 50 Will Knutsson OL/So. 85 Isaac Lutz WR/Sr. 2 Keaton Ellis CB/So. 24 Keyvone Lee RB/Fr. No. Name Position/Elig. 86 Brandon Strange TE/H/Fr. 3 Johnny Dixon CB/So. 25 Daequan Hardy CB/Fr. 51 Hakeem Beamon DT/Fr. 3 Parker Washington WR/Fr. 26 Caziah Holmes RB/Fr. 51 Jimmy Christ OL/Fr. 88 Norval Black WR/Jr. 4 Kalen King CB/Fr. 27 Aeneas Hawkins DT/So. 52 Blake Zalar OL/Fr. No. Name Position/Elig. 5 Tariq Castro-Fields CB/Sr. 27 Jaden Seider S/Fr. 53 Fred Hansard DT/Jr. 89 Winston Eubanks WR/Sr. 5 Jahan Dotson WR/Fr. 28 Devyn Ford RB/So. 53 Rasheed Walker OL/So. 89 Grayson Kline TE/H/So. 6 Cam Sullivan-Brown WR/Jr. 28 Dominic DeLuca LB/Fr. 54 Derrick Tangelo DT/Sr. 90 Rafael Checa K/So. 8 Marquise Wilson QB/So. 29 Sebastian Constantini S/Fr. 54 Fatorma Mulbah DT/Fr. 90 Rodney McGraw DE/Fr. 9 Joey Porter Jr. CB/Fr. 29 Henry Fessler WR/So. 55 Anthony Whigan OL/Jr. 91 Dvon Ellies DT/Fr. 9 Christian Veilleux QB/Fr. 32 Dylan Farronato S/Fr. 56 Amin Vanover DT/Fr. 91 Chris Stoll SN/Jr. 11 Daniel George WR/So. 33 Bryce Mostella DE/Fr. 57 Ibrahim Traore OL/Fr. 12 Brandon Smith LB/So. 36 Zuriah Fisher LB/Fr. 58 Landon Tengwall OL/Fr. 92 Jake Pinegar K/Jr. 13 Ellis Brooks LB/Jr. 37 Drew Hartlaub S/Jr. 59 Kaleb Konigus OL/So. 92 Smith Vilbert DE/Fr. 13 KeAndre Lambert-Smith WR/Fr. 38 Tank Smith RB/Fr. 64 Nate Bruce OL/Fr. 93 Levi Forrest P/Fr. 14 Sean Clifford QB/Jr. 39 Robbie Dwyer LB/Fr. 66 Nick Dawkins OL/Fr. 93 Bradley King P/Jr. 15 Enzo Jennings S/Fr. 40 Jesse Luketa LB/Jr. 70 Juice Scruggs OL/So. 94 Jake Wilson DE/Fr. 16 Ji’Ayir Brown S/Jr. 41 Kobe King LB/Fr. 72 Bryce Effner OL/So. 95 Cole Brevard DT/Fr. 17 Arnold Ebiketie DE/Jr. 43 Tyler Elsdon LB/Fr. 73 Mike Miranda OL/Jr. 95 Vlad Hilling K/So. 17 Mason Stahl QB/Fr. 44 Joseph Appiah Darkwa DT/Fr. 74 Olu Fashanu OL/Fr. 97 Barney Amor P/Jr. 19 Joseph Johnson III CB/Fr. 44 Tyler Warren TE/Fr. 75 Des Holmes OL/Jr. 19 Jaden Dottin WR/Fr. 45 Charlie Katshir LB/So. 77 Sal Wormley OL/Fr. 97 PJ Mustipher DT/Jr. 20 Adisa Isaac DE/So. 46 Nick Tarburton DE/So. 78 Golden Israel-Achumba OL/Fr. 98 Jordan Stout K/P/Jr. 21 Noah Cain RB/So. 47 Alex Furmanek LB/Fr. 79 Caeden Wallace OL/Fr. 98 Dan Vasey DE/Jr. 21 Tyler Rudolph S/Fr. 47 Tommy Friberg TE/H/Fr. 80 Malick Meiga WR/Fr. 99 Coziah Izzard DT/Fr. The Daily Collegian versus Thursday, April 15, 2021 | Page A3 Isaac, Brown to step up as leaders

By Justin Morganstein cal than the Brooklyn, New York, The Daily Collegian native is defensive back Ji’Ayir Brown who’s taken a long, Following the disappointment winding road to get to the spot he of a 4-5 season in 2020, Penn State is at ow. was also keenly aware it would be Brown started his career at taking on a number of losses with Lackawanna Junior College, the departure of its defensive where he walked on after not leaders in 2021. even being on the coaching staff’s Veteran presences like Jayson recruiting radar. Oweh, Shaka Toney and Lamont Once Brown was able to get Wade have gone on to pursue his reps in, coaches quickly took their professional careers, while notice of his talent and hard work last year’s team sack leader An- between the lines. tonio Shelton is heading to He was eventually able to work Florida to utilize his final year of himself all the way to a Big Ten eligibility. program in Penn State and will All four were pivotal, not just compete for a starting job at on the field, but were players who safety in the fall with Jonathan were familiar with the scheme Sutherland. and culture led by James Through all of that, Brown has Franklin and Brent Pry. found a way to have a But now with Oweh, Toney, Aabha Vora/Collegian flie photo positive effect on his teammates Wade and Shelton gone, the Nit- Sophomore defensive end Adisa Issac is set to become a crucial part of a Penn State’s pass rush after losing and coaches while displaying his tany Lions are looking internally some of its veteran leadership. underdog mentality, which he for leadership from those who says is now simply a mindset. have already spent time with the since I got on campus just asking in line with the personality he’s Isaac now has a chance to do “I go into practice, I go into program. him, ‘How do you do this, when do always had. Quite candidly, the the same, as his talent and places I’ve never been before with One of those players is sopho- you do this, why do you do this?’ 6-foot-4, 244 pound defensive line- physical ability will certainly put that mindset of ‘I’m an underdog, more defensive end Adisa Isaac. Just asking him everything and man said, “I’m really shy, I’m not him on the field in many critical and nobody expects me to do any- A player who Toney described picking his brain.” the biggest talker.” situations. thing,’” Brown said. “I have to as a future “first round pick” last Learning those habits from a In a situation similar to the “l have to voice my opinion earn everything I get. That’s been season, Isaac said he is ready to veteran like Toney will certainly defensive line outlook this year, and help the younger guys,” my mentality since high school — take on the leadership role held benefit Penn State as it moves a soft-spoken Jahan Dotson Isaac said. “I’m more lead by ex- before I got to Lackawanna. by members of the program who forward with a young core ready stepped up to the plate last sea- ample… but when it’s time to be “Just earn everything you get, aren’t around anymore. to make its presence felt on the son, after saying he was more of vocal, I will have to be vocal. It’s nothing is given.” “I recently talked to Shaka just field. a quiet leader among the wide something I’m trying to improve to get feedback,” Isaac said. “I’ve But away from the field, Isaac receiver group heading into the on.” To email reporter: [email protected]. just been picking his brain even admitted vocal leadership is not 2020 campaign. Someone who is a bit more vo- Follow him on Twitter at @JmoTweets_. Ford to take on pivotal role in Penn State backfield By Justin Morganstein line up against him every day in defensive as well as senior Baylor transfer John “We make corrections on each other in The Daily Collegian lineman PJ Mustipher. Lovett, Ford said he believes the compe- the film room, and we make sure we’re “Devyn is quick, Devyn is explosive,” tition among the group has already been talking on the sidelines [about] what we’re For the second year in a row, it appears Mustipher said. at an all-time high — and that isn’t a bad doing well or what we could do better,” that the running back position is going “I lifted next to him during the winter, so thing. Ford said. to be one of Penn State’s most complete I was able to see the type of power he had “It’s been a high competitive level every “Things like that make the running back groups heading into the summer. in the weight room. Devyn’s got quick feet, single day,” Ford said. “When you come in room good, because we are able to coach With most of its biggest contributors he can make those cuts that not a lot of and you know your job is on the line every ourselves, and the coaches don’t have to returning from last year and other impor- guys around the country can make. Devyn single day, and [you] come in there and coach us.” tant names returning from injury, the Nit- just goes to work every day.” work with the guys that can all take a spot Part of where his current mentality tany Lions will likely rely on their running While Ford and fellow sophomore Noah whenever, that’s a beautiful thing. We’re all comes is the experience Ford gained while backs to give the offense a boost in the 2021 Cain missed significant time with their pushing each other to be the best we can being slotted in as the lead back prior to campaign. respective injuries, freshmen Keyvone be on the field.” his injury. One of the returners from injury is soph- Lee and Caziah Holmes were able to shine Ford is confident in his own game and With Cain absent after a Week 1 injury omore back Devyn Ford, who missed three once the opportunity presented itself. said he feels he can personally contribute after and preseason No. 1 Journey Brown games last year. The two combined for 768 rushing yards a lot to the group in 2021. sidelined with a medical condition, Ford Ford showed some flashes in his fresh- and six touchdowns last season while He is also keenly aware part of competi- was going to have to be the elder states- man season in 2019 and has already been playing crucial roles in Penn State’s four tion is to make everyone better, and that is man in a backfield filled with freshmen. impressive so far in spring workouts, game win streak to close out the year. how the team will form a true backfield by Visit collegian.psu.edu to read the full according to one of the guys who has to So with the two young backs in the mix, committee. story. Page A4 | Thursday, April 15, 2021 versus The Daily Collegian Seniors weigh in on Puzzles Across 1234 56789 10 11 12 13

1 State openly 14 15 16 5 Tablelands freshman-only decision 17 18 19 10 Retro hairdo 14 Ritzy 20 21 22 23 By Tyler Lipton 15 Uncredited actor FOR THE COLLEGIAN 16 Diving bird 24 25 26 17 Talipot palm leaf 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 For the first time in over a year, 18 Watchman Penn State will be letting a mass 19 Kind of surgery 35 36 37 38 20 Tempest 39 40 number of fans into Beaver Sta- 22 Golfer’s concern dium. But there’s a catch — only 23 Card game 41 42 43 44 45 freshmen are invited. 24 Strained Penn State’s annual Blue- 27 Humanities degs. 46 47 48 49 30 Family tree word White game will not be open to 50 51 52 upperclassmen, and several se- 31 Bird of myth niors voiced their disapproval at 32 German river 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 35 Suggested the decision, including Gwyneth 37 Russian orbiter 61 62 63 64 Falloon. 39 Libertines 65 66 67 “I am annoyed and upset,” Fal- 40 Sunshine State loon (senior-broadcast journal- 41 Museum VIP 68 69 70 ism) said. “It’s like a punch in the 44 Shellfish gut.” 46 Store posting Copyright ©2021 PuzzleJunction.com (Abbr.) 68 Quarry 12 Be itinerant 42 Lennon’s lady Fallon said she thinks the 47 Chemical suffix 69 Retreats 13 Sole 43 Lizard, e.g. game is only occurring to “keep 48 Between Arnhem 70 Soaks, as flax 21 Parsons 44 Permissive freshmen here.” and Utrecht 23 Lying down 45 Literary piece Penn State’s football games 49 “C’___ la vie!” Down 25 Linda ___, 50 Roly-poly have a history of being full of en- 50 Advocator Supergirl’s alias 51 Desert sight ergy, so Brett Randby said he is Aabha Vora/Collegian file photo 53 Solar system 1 Mil. addresses 26 Apex 52 Circus performer disappointed with the news about Cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields (5) and quarterback Sean Clifford (14) hug member 2 Electrical unit 27 Hard close- 53 Seductress 56 Clavell’s “___- 3 Quisling’s city grained wood 54 Mideast the Blue-White game. after the Penn State Blue-White game at Beaver Stadium in 2019. Pan” 4 Quay 28 French romance potentate Randby (senior-information 57 Armored vehicles 5 Ryan of “I.Q.” 29 Some rail lines 55 Emergency CB sciences and technology) said he biology) said. “We went to our last Lampman said the most fun 61 During 6 Rejoiced 32 Related channel is invested in Penn State culture. football game without realizing it part of the Blue-White game was 62 More owlish 7 Flight segment maternally 58 Reputation “When they dropped the bomb, was the last game.” tailgating. But with the coronavi- 64 Challenge for a 8 Unpaid overdue 33 Quiet actors 59 Make a sweater I was like ‘What?’ — just very However, Crago said she barber debts 34 Bypass 60 Collectors like rus preventing even the invited 65 Like some vases 9 Needing a lift 36 Pastoral setting them shocked and confused,” Randby believes the university’s decision freshmen from doing so, Lamp- 66 Skirt style 10 Vocally 38 Woody Herman’s 62 Pallid said. was the right one. man said not being allowed into 67 Radiate 11 Contour “___ Autumn” 63 Hi-___ graphics The games are a favorite “A lot of freshmen have had a the game made no difference for among students and visitors — lot of doubts about Penn State,” him. hotel rooms are booked months Crago said. “The game can reas- Crago, however, worries about in advance in anticipation of sure freshmen and improve [the] graduating seniors who live in games. Many obtain season pass- freshmen experience.” other states or countries and may WORD SEARCH es and wait in line for hours to buy Like Crago, Jude Lampman not have another opportunity to © 2021 PuzzleJunction.com tickets. said he understands seniors’ return to Penn State to see an- For Madison Crago, not be- outrage, but he prefers to focus other game. She said she thinks For the Sweet Tooth ing able to attend the Blue- on what the university gave to the university could have made ML LORE I STOOTXZQKAM White game is just another seniors during the coronavirus a compromise to allow more stu- disappointment in a series of dis- instead of what it took away. dents of varying years to attend. BABYRUTHKCARAMEL LO appointing events caused by the “We aren’t able to go to “I’m glad [the freshmen] are I RWAHMRBU I WVP ZNCTU coronavirus. the Blue-White game, but going, but I wish seniors could “Seniors have lost much of I would rather have graduation,” go too,” Crago said. “Beaver TSRUBRATSMTTQFXS I N their senior year,” Crago (senior- Lampman (senior-civil Stadium is big enough to fit both GGGUSPH I FHRTTACWAD biochemistry and molecular engineering) said. classes.” MDDSRNOTCLOULSTZQS AOWSE J XWNDK TGEDWVY RTERPWZVECSUQGSP I Y Freshmen tackle whether to ASDEPWZGMRGOODBARX TSGKOHNWEHHVZGVNRA attend final spring practice HXACHJKV I TBOMAEDST OML IWZABRAYVUHGGJE By Julia Mertes football games are like before the family that sparked his interest in NSANBSAXLEOAHSTNST FOR THE COLLEGIAN fall “when students will hopefully attending the games himself. be able to attend all games in per- Kacala said he’s excited to at- FPXSEVWQMHXODAE I UZ Cheers, loud music, conces- son.” tend an event that’s specifically CNYFMRNLNMI LKYWAYT sion food, touchdowns — a typical Like many freshmen, Briggs associated with Penn State be- day at Beaver Stadium will occur said he’s excited to experience cause it “will feel like the school’s WJIGBIGHUNKTTLAMJC once again as the football team a typical Penn State event. The coming together a bit — even QLMI LKDUDS I TMJ FPSU ushers in its annual spring prac- atmosphere at football events — though it’s just freshmen.” tice for the Blue-White game. But with the crowd coming together After an atypical first year, Ka- YOJDNOMLAKOREZQVBJ this, it’s time only for freshmen. cheering for the players — is cala said the game gives fresh- Almond Joy Kit Kat Nerds Snickers After Penn State freshmen what Briggs said he’s looking for- men a glimpse into the “Penn Baby Ruth Life Savers Oh Henry Starburst Big Hunk Marathon Payday Tootsie Roll were invited to attend this year’s ward to, even more than the ac- State experience.” Caramello Milk Duds Power Twix annual spring practice on April 17 tual game. “I think it’s great being able to Dots Milky Way House Whoppers in Beaver Stadium, much to se- “I’m not really a big football go to an in-person activity,” Kaca- Galaxy Mounds Skittles Zagnut niors’ dismay, students weighed person, but being here at Penn la said. “It will be a lot of fun and a Heath Mr Goodbar Skor Zero in on the university’s decision and State, it’s really part of the com- great way for the freshmen to do shared their plans for the event. munity and part of the ‘vibe’ of something associated with Penn The Blue-White game is the what to expect from a campus State and that has the ‘college last training day in the football like Penn State,” Briggs said. feel’ to it while also being safe practice season, and according to “I value community a lot, and with COVID restrictions.” an email sent by Penn State Ath- the Blue-White game seems While some students decided to letic Department to freshmen, like a big community event to attend the game due to childhood the event will include perfor- experience as a school.” interest in Penn State football, mances by the Penn State Blue According to Briggs, attending other students said they decided Band, cheer and dance squad Penn State football games was an to register for tickets because routines, and the traditional activity he was looking forward to, they’ve never had a Penn State singing of the Alma Mater. and he said he was disappointed football experience. In addition to freshmen, the when the fall football games were Victoria Snyder said her fam- families and guests of student- restricted to limited attendees. ily isn't a “sports family,” so she’s athletes will be allowed to at- Due to rising coronavirus num- never attended a football game tend the event, according to the bers, Briggs said he is unsure if — let alone a Penn State football Lions’ athletic department. The he’ll end up purchasing season game. controversial decision garnered football tickets for next semester, According to Snyder (fresh- the attention of many upperclass- but he’s hopeful vaccine rollout man-English), the Blue-White men who protested the choice via will get the pandemic under con- game is a great way to further social media and online petitions. trol. “integrate the freshmen into the Despite petitions against fresh- Other freshmen booked Blue- Penn State family,” especially men attending the game, regis- White game tickets after years since attending football games tration for tickets still began at 7 of growing up and hearing about is a large part of the university’s a.m. on April 7 for first-year stu- Penn State football events, in- culture. dents. cluding Andrew Kacala, who “This event seems like one Some freshmen — including plans to attend the game after way to rope the freshmen into Jack Briggs — are attending making ticket reservations with a the Penn State experience, es- the Blue-White game due to a group of friends. pecially since [they have] had a love of football games sparked According to Kacala (fresh- rough year and haven’t attended by high school extracurricular man-biology), he’s anticipated any normal Penn State activities involvement. attending Penn State football yet — including the fall football Briggs’ (freshman-theatre) games since he’s grown up in a season,” Snyder said. participation in high school Penn State household that has Since she’s never attended a marching band sparked his in- consistently rooted for the team football game, Snyder said she terest in football and got him “in- on Saturdays. doesn’t know what to expect, but vested in attending school foot- Since Kacala’s parents are she said she’s excited to find out ball games regularly,” he said. Penn State alumni, Kacala what a Penn State football expe- Briggs said he decided to at- said he’s been “surrounded by rience is, even under the current tend the Blue-White game “just Penn State football for a while circumstances. © Pappocom for the experience” to see what now” and heard stories from his Alisha Naik said she decided to attend the Blue-White game because of the popularity of football in State College. “That’s what Penn State’s known for — for their football games — and I think it will be a cool experience no mat- ter how limited it is, because at least we get something,” Naik (freshman-actuarial science and engineering) said. After a year of coronavirus regulations and missed opportu- nities, Naik said she’s especially jumping at the chance to attend the in-person event. “This is one of the first big events that they’re letting us do, so I feel like it’s a smart idea to go to it because everyone’s missed so much,” Naik said. “Just the fact that we’re getting to do this — we should just take advantage Ernesto Estremera Jr./For the Collegian of that.” Some freshmen will attend the spring practice on April 17, citing their Visit collegian.psu.edu to read love of football. the full story. Vol. 121, No. 24 Thursday, April 15, 2021 Rainbow after the rain LGBTQ students share experiences finding solace in internet community amid pandemic By Colton Lucas “When I got to college, things For the Collegian would definitely fall through the cracks, and I am still feeling that Being a student during the this semester.” coronavirus pandemic can be Sarah Bett is also a part of the difficult, but for Penn State’s LG- LGBTQ community at Penn State BTQ community, the challenges and was sent home last spring faced may look different. by the pandemic. She said she Jason Nelson — a first-year was lucky because her family is student who identifies as bisexual supportive of her. Bett (junior- — has had to navigate collegiate community, environment and de- life during the pandemic, and velopment and Spanish) said for for him, that meant also having other students, some were forced to remain largely isolated from to make decisions to conceal part other people within the LGBTQ of their identities around families community while locked away in that didn’t know they were part of a dorm. the LGBTQ community. Nelson (freshman-food sci- “When quarantine started, ence) said one of the hardest many of us were home… We got challenges he faced was finding stuck,” Bett said. “It was really ways to connect with other LG- confusing, it was really frustrat- BTQ students without actually ing and it was incredibly isolat- being able to see them face-to- ing. I think it was really hard for face. people in the queer community, “My entire reason for coming to especially if people weren’t out — Ken Kalbach/Collegian file photo campus during the pandemic was being forced back into the closet.” that I wanted to meet people,” As the pandemic continued to Brian Patchcoski, former director of the Center for Gender and Sexual Diversity, walks in a Pride March on Nelson said. “I had this dream impact people worldwide, Bett Wednesday April 11, 2018. The center has offered resources for LGBTQ students amid the pandemic. of going and meeting people who said she has seen some LGBTQ were like me, and instead, I found students who are able to escape advertise about how they are to create a more welcoming and in order to find a community he that I was alone in my dorm and difficult situations, but others doing all these great things, but safe environment but does not felt he could click with at Penn that was my only option.” still were trapped and lacking they don’t talk about how they see this effort shared among oth- State. The feelings of loneliness and adequate resources needed to are blocking and creating these er students who are not LGBTQ This reliance on the internet lack of community were not the maintain their well-being. boundaries for [the LGBTQ com- themselves. and social apps to interact and only difficulties Nelson said he The efforts taken by Penn State munity],” Bett said. “They want Mitts (junior-supply chain find LGBTQ spaces is nothing faced when he came to University to help its LGBTQ student com- to make it a great space? Help us management) said the university new for the community, accord- Park. munity were not enough, accord- make it a better space.” has taken initiative to offer pro- ing to Nelson. He said he believes Before the pandemic, Nelson ing to Bett. Being open about her Bett said it’s now more impor- grams and resources, but other when the pandemic is over, the said he started to develop better sexuality at Penn State pre-pan- tant than ever for LGBTQ people students’ harmful preconcep- real challenge will be learning to establish boundaries and call connections with his family. Just demic, Bett said this lack of effort tions prohibit the how to break be- was seen and felt even before the on the people around them to LGBTQ commu- as these connections seemed “On the internet, yond this digital coronavirus took hold. show them respect — no matter nity’s expression. to be growing, the coronavirus wall. changed everything. Before the pandemic, Bett said if they are surrounded by family “I think Penn when we can “Queer people Family relationships stopped the environment at Penn State members or friends. State, from an connect with other kind of did the getting better, and academically, was one that catered to hetero- The university currently pro- administrative Nelson said the rigorous courses normativity and sometimes pro- vides various resources aimed to- standpoint, has people from around same things they he was taking during his senior duced fear among LGBTQ stu- ward LGBTQ students, including done pretty much the world that feel were doing before year of high school also became dents. She said Penn State has a access to advocacy opportunities, all they can to be the pandemic,” more difficult to manage. culture that brings this out, but it education, health and wellness accepting to the the same way, it’s Nelson said. “It’s “It ended up becoming just — also has the opportunity to be a services, programming, student- LGBTQ com- like you forget unlikely people trailing down to absolutely noth- welcoming and inclusive environ- run organizations and access to munity and open are going to ing, having no motivation to do ment in a post-pandemic world. the Center for Sexual and Gen- doors,” Mitts said. about straight break the habit any academics,” Nelson said. “[Penn State officials] der Diversity, according to Penn “I think it’s on the people.” of using [online State spokesperson Lisa Powers. student body to be platforms], even The CSGD — located in LL011 accepting.” Aidan Mitts when there’s no in the HUB-Robeson Center Throughout the junior-supply chain management pandemic.” — also provides additional op- pandemic, Mitts As the end of portunities for students through said LGBTQ stu- the pandemic lies specialized programming for the dents everywhere on the horizon, Bett said every- LGBTQ community, including have had to rely on the internet to one needs to remain cognizant speaker events, virtual discus- find the support they aren’t able of the disruption the coronavirus sion groups, off-campus and na- to have in person. Mitts said the has caused in the lives of so many tional LGBTQ resources and pro- internet has always been a safe LGBTQ people. She said every- gramming for Penn State Pride haven for the community, but the one’s experiences are unique, Month 2021, according to Powers. pandemic has caused online in- and it cannot be assumed how “[Penn State] will continue to teractions to be the only option people have reacted to the pan- work to make our students aware for some. of the many resources in place for “We all, in our individual lives, demic. our LGBTQ community,” Powers have felt some fraction of being “We’re all just trying to do our said via email. unwelcomed and unaccepted,” best — everyone is dealing with More information on additional Mitts said. “On the internet, when it and experiencing it differently,” resources for LGBTQ students, we can connect with other people Bett said. “All members of the faculty and staff can be found on from around the world that feel [LGBTQ] community don’t ex- the CSGD’s website, or by con- the same way, it’s like you forget perience things the same way… tacting the current CSGD interim about straight people.” Just because one person has Ken Kalbach/Collegian file photo director, Sonya Wilmouth. Nelson said it took an entire told you about their experiences Quarantine meant being stuck in an uncomfortable environment for some Aidan Mitts said she sees and semester to be able to navigate doesn’t mean you can understand LGBTQ students, with some being “forced back into the closet.” understands Penn State’s efforts the virtual world of collegiate life anyone else’s.” What does a COVID-19 variant in State College mean? By Anjelica Rubin symptoms, according to Fer- still a long way to go before we according to Ferrari. levels, the best way to protect For the Collegian rari, who said it would be no can reach this ‘normalcy’ we all “All vaccines have been very yourself and the best way to pro- surprise if the U.K. variant con- crave,” Filippelli said. “I think I effective,” Ferrari said. “But, tect those around you is by get- A little over one year after the tinued to spread throughout the speak for everyone when I say we we must remain consci- ting those shots. You first coronavirus case was re- community. are worn out, but a variant is not. entious that other don’t want to wait ported in Centre County, a more “The highly transmissible vari- It’s just getting started, and that’s variants tell a around.” infectious variant has arrived in ant is about 30-50% more trans- the real concern.” different story Ferrari the Centre region. missible than the original virus,” Ferrari said there has already and have not said if stu- The B.1.1.7 variant, also re- Ferrari said. “While young people been “strong evidence” that the yet been de- dents are ferred to as the United Kingdom still have a low probability of re- variant spreads rapidly, and he tected in our vaccinated, variant, was first discovered at acting severely to the virus, with stressed the importance of recog- commu- there is Penn State in tested wastewa- this variant, that low value is nizing the “increased likelihood” nity.” room to ter samples and was confirmed slightly higher.” of developing severe, potentially Accord- relax some in a “COVID-19 Status Update” State College Mayor Ron Filip- long-lasting effects from the ing to the restrictions. with university officials and pelli said with the increase in variant. CDC, the But he said community leaders on March 26. cases, large student gatherings “I want to be as transparent two other now is still According to Matthew Ferrari, and parties are still an issue as possible,” Ferrari said. “It’s coronavi- the most im- director of Penn State’s Center even with the borough’s existing still so new that we don’t know rus variants portant time for Infectious Disease Dynamics coronavirus ordinance. how long lasting those outcomes already pres- to stay cautious. and associate professor of biol- “Of course not all of the blame could become. But if you do get ent in the U.S. are According to the ogy, the analysis of wastewater is on students,” Filippelli said. sick with the variant, the chance the B.1.351 from South Via CDC Pennsylvania De- samples was ordered after the “However, it’s you might have Africa and P.1. from Brazil. partment of Health’s increase of cases locally. gotten to a point “I think I speak for those long term Like Ferrari, Filippelli said the vaccine rollout timeline, all com- “I think myself and others at where we already issues of fatigue, real concern is making sure other monwealth residents will be eli- the university working to set pol- have consequenc- everyone when I scarring in the variants do not spread. gible for vaccination by April 19. icy were already operating under es in place, but say we are worn lungs and respi- “It is critically important to “We now know that there is ab- the presumption that [the vari- we can’t control ratory failure is reach herd immunity,” Filippelli solutely a way to protect people ant] was here almost as soon as it everything, es- out, but a variant is increased and all said. “Now that vaccinations will from the virus with vaccines,” was detected in [Pennsylvania],” pecially when it not. It’s just getting very possible.” be available to so many members Ferrari said. “But we need to be Ferrari said. “It was just a matter comes to apart- According to of our community, we must act patient in order to buy everyone of time.” ment and private started, and that’s the Centers for on that advantage and under- the time to get the vaccine before The variant was first discov- housing parties the real concern.” Disease Control stand we must continue to follow we can think about normalcy and ered in Pennsylvania on Jan. 7, where students and Prevention, guidelines until everyone can be what that actually means.” and while it is still unknown how live.” Ron Filippelli the B.1.1.7 vari- [vaccinated].” Although more vaccines are be- widespread it is in State College, Filippelli said State College mayor ant has become In Centre County, 18% of the ing distributed and some restric- the wastewater sample that con- he continues en- the most com- population has been vaccinated tions have been relaxed, Ferrari firmed its presence dates back to couraging social mon strain of the as of April 5, according to the said the need to continue prac- March 7, according to Ferrari. distancing and coronavirus in the CDC’s COVID-19 Data Tracker. ticing preventative measures — Wastewater sampling for the mask wearing but is concerned United States as of April 7. “Since this community has including masking, distancing, coronavirus on campus and about what it means to have a Currently, all three corona- such a big population of students frequent hand washing and avoid- in surrounding areas can help variant discovered in the State virus vaccines available in the living in the area most of the year, ing large gatherings — is still the university catch a potential College community. United States — Moderna, Pfizer- it is super important for students “undeniably necessary.” outbreak days before those in “After over a year of this, it BioNTech and Johnson & John- to get vaccinated when it is their Visit collegian.psu.edu to read contact with the virus show any just goes to show that there’s son — work against the variant, turn,” Ferrari said. “On so many the full story. Page B2 | Thursday, April 15, 2021 LOCAL The Daily Collegian Students speak out against Asian hate

By Grace Strayer gathered on the Zoom call The Daily Collegian to voice opinions and share experiences, fears and anxieties. Hypervigilant. Distraught. She said many within PSFA Angry. Numb. wanted to lend a hand with the These are a few of the ways vigil because of how strongly they the recent Asian hate crimes in felt about it. the United States have left Asian “Within our organization, we’re American Penn State students very willing to help each other like Anton Aluquin feeling. out [and] be very supportive of “It’s almost like I wasn’t sur- one another — whether we need prised that this would happen,” help with homework or need Aluquin (sophomore-immunol- somebody to talk to,” Rayco said, ogy and infectious disease) said “and I think we played that same about the hate the Asian com- role in this specific event where munity is facing following the we really just showed our support shooting in Atlanta on March 16. when it was needed.” Aluquin said the hate crimes Isabella Gaitan-Salanga is the across the country make him feel public relations chair for PSFA. “angry” and “indignant.” She said she and PSFA felt “dis- “[I feel] a little bit scared for not traught” over the events in Atlan- only my safety, but especially for ta, so when APIDA Caucus mem- my parents’ safe- bers reached ty and especially out to different for the women of “I think it’s very organizations color in my life,” important that at Penn State, Aluquin said. “I’m Gaitan-Salanga definitely afraid of people of color (sophomore-busi- Lily LaRegina/Collegian what may happen are heard in their ness marketing) Samara Rayco speaks during a vigil held in front of Old Main on, Sunday, March 21, in remembrance of the eight to them.” wanted to help. people killed in Atlanta-area spas last week, six of whom were Asian women. On March 21, narratives, [and] Gaitan-Salanga Penn State stu- they are seen in the helped create the Rayco said sharing her that people of color are heard Asian American community. dents gathered way that they’ve graphic passed experiences with a larger crowd in their narratives, [and] they “I think there’s a genuine prob- at Old Main for a around prior to made her feel vulnerable — like are seen in the way that they’ve lem with people not knowing vigil to remem- been disregarded the vigil, and dur- she was letting her guard down been disregarded so many times, anything about Asian racism,” ber the victims so many times, like ing the event it- for a moment. like throughout history and just Aluquin said. of the shooting in self, she helped “It was a little terrifying, but it recently,” Rayco said. Aluquin said he thinks solidar- Atlanta. throughout history hand out candles. was nice to see that everybody Gaitan-Salanga said the vigil’s ity will be the biggest result from According to and just recently.” Both Rayco and was very supportive and open to bystanders were able to see a recent events and the Penn State the New York Aluquin spoke at listening [to] what I had to say,” collective supporting the cause, vigil since “historically, underrep- Times, on Tues- Samara Rayco the vigil, which Rayco said. trying to combat the harmful be- resented minorities have been day, March 16, a hosted a variety Once she began to speak, she haviors and bringing awareness pitted against each other.” sophomore-music education man opened fire of other speak- said she felt more comfortable. to the violence the “I think the at three massage ers. Aluquin “In that very moment as I was Asian American “Solidarity is more Black community businesses in At- said he shared his experi- easing into being vulnerable, it community has than just a word and a lot of peo- lanta and Cherokee County. Eight ences growing up as Filipino was almost as if I didn’t have to faced. ple of color are people were killed, six of whom American and the “build up of be scared,” Rayco said, “because “I hope that... — it’s amplifying still reeling from were women of Asian descent. microaggressions” he faced. there were so many people who people around both voices without the events of this Samara Rayco is the director Aluquin said he wanted to were hearing my view and empa- were able to see summer, and so of internal affairs within Penn speak because he said Asian thizing with my experience, even people from the stifling either one.” I don’t want the State’s Filipino Association. The Americans are often told they if they may not have experienced [Asian American] Asian community Filipino Association was just one shouldn’t speak up, and he want- it before.” community as Anton Aluquin to overshadow of many groups involved with ed to advocate for people to use Aluquin said he thought the well as allies able sophomore-immunology the problems of the vigil. “It was really hard for their voice. most important part of the vigil to congregate to- and infectuous disease the African Amer- me to just sit by and not do any- “I would advocate for any of was humanizing the victims in gether and see ican and Black thing,” Rayco (sophomore-music my fellow Asian Amerians, re- Atlanta and allowing them to take the support that we all have for community,” Aluquin said. “So education) said. gardless of what race of Asian the spotlight as opposed to the one another within the State Col- this is where I feel like solidarity Prior to the vigil, PSFA shared American you are, I want to ad- “horror” that occurred. lege community,” Gaitan-Salanga is more than just a word — it’s a Zoom link for anyone inter- vocate for you to use your voice Rayco said she hopes the vigil said. amplifying both voices without ested in helping a member of and to recognize the value of you gave people an insight to the In the future, Aluquin said he stifling either one.” the Asain Pacific Islander Desi saying your thoughts, voicing Asian American community’s hopes to see more awareness American Caucus organize the your emotions and making your perspective. of discrimation, microaggres- To email reporter: [email protected]. event. According to Rayco, people arguments,” Aluquin said. “I think it’s very important sions and hate crimes against the Follow her on Twitter at @GraceStray. Appalachian Trail replaces student’s study abroad By Paul Sabini But Malizia (junior-English and Hikers traverse the the coronavirus pandemic began are hiking it, almost for mental The Daily Collegian psychology) had always planned Great Smoky Mountains in to get to Malizia, and “he was health reasons, almost as if this on completing the Appalachian Tennessee, reaching altitudes craving an experience.” So, now is restorative for them,” Malizia Nick Malizia was looking for- Trail walk, which is currently the of just over 6,600 feet, before de- was the time to take his trip out to said. ward to studying abroad. longest pure hiking experience in scending to 124 feet above sea lev- the Appalachian Trail. Malizia mentioned learn- The junior is currently in Har- the world. el in northern New York near Bear Malizia said he was further mo- ing about a man who suffered risburg, Virginia — right out- The majority of hikers will be- Mountain. tivated by “A Walk in the Woods,” from post traumatic stress dis- side of a Dairy Queen — a far gin their 2,100-mile journey in As a freshman entering Penn a Bill Bryson memoir about his order from his time overseas cry from Galway, Ireland, where north Georgia, around late Janu- State, Malizia partook in Penn attempt at crossing the Appala- in Iraq who found solace in the he had hoped to spend this past ary or early February, and hike State’s Aurora experience, chian Trail, and his humorous Tennessee woods. academic year. north to Maine with the weather. completing some credits in an digs about its endless nature, the Additionally, there was a wom- outdoor setting. propensity of bear attacks and an whose mother had recently Malizia said he loved Aurora the people existing in the trail passed away after four years in but noted the 80 miles he did community. hospice care, he said, whose doc- there pale in comparison to the Malizia and the rest of the tors had told her to do something Appalachian Trail. trail community remain at odds for herself. Currently, Malizia is 600 miles with Bryson, however, noting his And then there are those like into his journey up America’s seminal coverage of the trail and Malizia, people who had always easternmost mountain range, but his failure to complete more than revered the trail and took advan- he has already come to feel the half of his journey. tage of the pandemic to spend a special connection between man “He kinda just got enough for quarter of their year hiking. and nature in the backwoods of a book, and people really [look “There are a ton of people who the American landscape. down on him] for that,” Malizia are out for the same reason as “The AT is a really social trail, said. me; there’s seven of us who are and you meet so many cool peo- Malizia read “A Walk in the all on gap semesters,” he said. ple,” he said. “That’s part of the Woods,” however, and according As much as the trail is about reason why I’m here, because of to him, Bryson’s award-winning being one with nature, there the people.” book has served to popularize also exists a huge bond between His friend, student Katherine the Appalachian Trail despite the people you meet once on the trail, Stanton, said this had “been on book’s shortcomings among the Malizia said. his mind forever, and it was sad- trail community. “Everyone has ‘trail nick- dening to see him lose the chance But one thing Bryson men- names,’ and you hear them all the to go to Ireland, but this is who he tioned — the people you meet time in conversations with other Courtesy of Nick Malizia is — an outside, social kid.” — rings true among all who don people,” he said. Nick Malizia sits atop an outcropping along the Appalachain Trail. He will Stanton (junior-elementary their hiking boots and knapsacks. Visit collegian.psu.edu to read have hiked 2,100 miles once he finishes. education) said the isolation of “There are a lot of people who the full story. OPINIONMaddie Aiken David Tilli Sarah Andriano Thursday, April 15, 2021 Editor in Chief Opinion Page Editor Business Manager Page B3 Student-athletes deserve more he arc of justice for stu- hearings for NCAA vs. Alston, dent-athletes is bending various judges from across the Ttoward greater rights and OUR VIEW spectrum deconstructed the recognition, and Florida State concept of amateurism and University just provided a much College athletes are not amateurs but the hard-working found it sorely wanting. needed push in the right direc- “You can only ride on the tion. generators of college revenue history for so long. A great deal If Penn State had ears to hear has changed since 100 years and eyes to see, it would ago in the way student-athletes consider following FSU’s lead. are treated,” Justice Elena In response to the Intercolle- student-athletes to maximize offers, then, is a reversal of athletes’ profiles so they could Kagan said. giate Athlete Compensation and their NIL potential while in col- course and righting of wrongful maximize their returns from Rights bill passed by the Florida lege and help them graduate behavior on the part of shvitzing, shows the university Even though the Alston case legislature — which allows “cer- with less debt, assist their fami- universities. At the very least, actually tends its biggest only involves education-related tain student-athletes to earn lies and prepare for the next Atlas shall be properly incubators of revenue rather benefits such as study abroad compensation for their name, chapter in their lives.” recognized for his efforts and than merely pretending. opportunities or cash payments image, likeness or As the name implies, NIL finally allowed to maximize his Additionally, FSU’s friendship for academic excellence, the persona” — FSU partnered with essentially represents the brand potential. One might hope with Apex points to further court’s logic hints at something a social media guru program curated brand image of the recognition blossoms into erosion of belief in amateurism, greater on the horizon. called Apex. A driving concept individual student-athletes, and direct compensation, but until the doctrine held sacred by the More specifically, the legal behind the program and Apex merely streamlines the that fateful day, baby steps can NCAA that characterizes all system’s increasing acceptance partnership is to focus on curation and makes it that hold us over. student-athletes as amateurs of benefits for college athletes is student-athletes’ names, images much more lucrative. Accordingly, a giant and thus disqualified from but another tale, another story and likenesses, or NIL. Despite the hyper reliance on institution such as Penn State salaried payment. The NCAA in the larger saga of NCAA’s In Pennsylvania, such bills buzzwords and business jargon, can surely afford, both insists on maintaining a strict losing battle to “protect” these have been introduced, but not FSU’s effort has its heart in the financially and ethically, to take line between collegiate athletes same athletes from the horrors put into law as of early March. right place. For too long, similar baby steps and offer and professional ones, and of just compensation. Similar bills have been student-athletes played the role students similar packages — if believes the demarcation is introduced in the federal of Atlas for their universities, Pennsylvania passes NIL necessary in order for fans to Florida already detected the government. holding the institutions up legislation. enjoy the wild world of college writing on the wall and rallied David Coburn, FSU’s vice through painstaking effort and After all, Penn State athletics sports. to student-athletes’ defense. president and director of strength, and receiving reported a total profit of $4.2 Even the Supreme Court Perhaps more states and athletics, told the Tallahassee infinitesimal compensation in million in 2019. Even if pay- doubted the continued universities should read the Democrat that Apex is return. checks are quickly ruled out, importance of amateurism. same writing and act with “structured to allow What the newly minted bill offering the ability to expand Earlier in March, during similar swiftness.

Cartoon by Sarah Pellis Cartoons by Kaleigh Quinnan

MY VIEW | Sarah Pellis There is a need for more LGBTQ+ education Scan the QR code to download Growing up in a smaller general student body. “LGBTQ people are finding one’s sexual identity. I Spotlight, the official Daily Collegian suburb of Pittsburgh, I was More education could had to inform myself about app for smartphones. never truly educated about the decrease the prejudice against real and deserve to sexuality and gender because LGBTQ commu- LGBTQ people, because it be heard, and I was never given the proper nity in school or would provide others a better education in school. anywhere else. insight into what life in the prohibiting Everyone deserves the

Whether it be queer community is like. recognition is quite education they need to make Collegian Inc., 115 Carnegie Building, LGBTQ history There are a variety of anti- healthy and informed deci- University Park, PA. 16802 ©2021 Collegian Inc. or inclusive sex LGBTQ curriculum laws in cer- ignorant. ” sions about their own person- education, I have tain U.S. states that prohibit Sarah Pellis al relationships and always been the discussion of homosexuality otherparts of their lives. Board of Editors curious why and transgender identity in Additionally, all LGBTQ Editor in Chief Pellis there was not public schools. there a serious lack of people need and deserve to Maddie Aiken much To me, this is outdated and curriculum in schools? learn in settings that are safe Editor in Chief Elect education on these topics in unnecessary. LGBTQ people All I wanted in middle school and healthy. Jade Campos school. are real and deserve to be and high school was to see this This needs to be inclusive Managing Editor I am glad I’m at a place like heard, and prohibiting type of education. I wanted to of their experiences, which Lindsey Toomer Penn State — it’s far more recognition is quite ignorant. know and understand more most teachers and Digital Managing Editor advanced in LGBTQ education However, there are also some about the subject. I had to do textbooks fail to do. Shane Connelly compared to my educational states like California that man- my own research when it There needs to be more News Editor history in the past. dated LGBTQ inclusion into should be taught in schools in inclusive programs for gen- Jade Campos, Megan Swift There are a variety of their curriculum, which is the first place. der identity and sexual orien- Sports Editor classes at Penn State on the exciting. While there has been some tation that are simultaneously Andrew Destin LGBTQ community and its But what about the other progress from years ago, I medically accurate and dis- Andrew Porterfield history. Additionally, there’s the states and individual schools? believe there needs to be more pels the common stereotypes Lifestyle Editor Center for Sexual and These laws are a big step LGBTQ education not just at of behavior and identity. Jeremiah Hassel Gender Diversity, which has a toward more education about Penn State but the whole Discrimination is a con- Becky Marcinko variety of resources for and for LGBTQ people. country. stant force and sadly will be Opinion Editor students. More education and I think there is a lack of edu- for a long time. David Tilli However, when talking with awareness can be obtained cation in youth about LGBTQ If there is more education Photo Editor any adviser or professor, no one through social media and history, basic anatomy, healthy in school curriculums, I Lily LaRegina has actually recommended any talking with members of the relationship skills and safe sex believe there will be a better Multimedia Editor classes on this topic. community. practices. understanding of the LGBTQ Ben McClary I didn’t know there were Social media is an important And there is definitely more community. To contact News Division: opportunities at Penn State to part of educating yourself on than just that — straight cis- News, Opinions, Arts, Sports, Photo, Graphics, The become educated until this this, but often the media poorly gender people have been the Sarah Pellis is a junior majoring in his- Daily Collegian Online and The Weekly Collegian Phone: 814-865-1828 | Fax: 814-863-1126 year — this shows existing and stereotypically depicts highlight of tory and is a columnist for The Daily resources and educational LGBTQ people. conversations forever. Collegian. Email her at sxp5781@ materials should be more That is why I have continued Overall, I think sex psu.edu or follow her on Twitter at Board of Managers heavily advertised for the to educate myself, but why is education is a big part of @__sarahp. Business Manager Sarah Andriano Business Manager Elect We want to hear from you verification. 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Who we are a board of directors composed of complaints should be presented To contact Business Division: All writers should provide their The Daily Collegian’s editorial students, faculty and profession- to the business manager. Advertising, circulation, accounting and classifieds Phone: 814-865-2531 | Fax: 814-865-3848 address and phone number for opinion is determined by its als. Penn State students write 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays Page B4 SPORTS Thursday, April 15, 2021 Pitchers build bond through game By Max Ralph a new program and new ideas The Daily Collegian for the first time — and what the three mean to him on a personal Bailey Dees, Conor Larkin and level. Kyle Virbitsky didn’t grow up in “Those guys welcomed me and the same hometown, didn’t play my family with open arms from high school base- day one,” Newman said. “I get to BASEBALL ball together and be around those guys every day, barely knew each and they make me better. Just other prior to ar- the respect, they didn’t have to do riving on campus in Happy Valley that.” in 2017. When their days at Penn State Four years later, the trio has are over, Virbitsky still has lofty found themselves in an unbreak- expectations for their relation- able bond thanks to the time ship and development in the they’ve spent together on and off game of baseball. the field. “I think I’ll be friends with the Whether it was living together, two of them for the rest of my life, pulling locker room pranks on I really do,” Virbitsky said. “And one another or pushing their I think it’s a pretty unique situa- counterparts to new competitive tion we’re in, because I would say heights, the roots they planted in Jonah Rosen/Collegian file photo the three of us all have a pretty the Penn State baseball program Conor Larkin, Kyle Virbitsky and Bailey Dees developed a connection through baseball. “I love these two guys good shot at continuing on and grew unmistakably intertwined. with everything I have,” Larkin said. hopefully playing professionally.” The three have solidified them- Newman didn’t skip a selves as the Nittany Lions’ top “I can see I’m a better player the best for each other.” field from freshman year to now. beat when he explained his starting pitchers for the 2021 just from being around them,” The relationship they’ve built “We try to find ways to com- expectations for the trio season. For Virbitsky, it’s been Larkin told the Collegian. “We extends well beyond the realm municate with each other even post-Penn State. a “blessing” to have Larkin and try to beat each other — that’s of baseball, and it started when when we’re on winter or summer “They’re gonna be pros,” New- Dees by his side as the three what makes it fun. Just having Dees and Larkin roomed togeth- break,” Larkin said. “Like, ‘How man said. “They already are in worked toward a leadership that competitive spirit between er with Virbitsky on the same you guys doing? What can we do how they go about their business. role after inheriting a middling us three has pushed us to limits floor in their freshman year. to help?’ There’s an on-the-field They’re gonna be successful program. to where I never thought I could Now, Dees and Virbitsky live bond as a pitcher, then there’s an men.” “I think it started when we got be pushed before.” in a house together, and despite off-the-field bond where we try to Dees, Larkin and Virbitsky here,” Virbitsky told The Daily Despite the “constant desire to Dees being an early riser and get away from the game of base- may have been brought to- Collegian. “We recognized that compete,” the bond they’ve built occasionally making some noise ball and just hang out and have gether because of baseball, but we were in a situation, not that shines on game days. When one with his NutriBullet blender, fun.” their connection has grown well we didn’t want to be in, but that guy is on the mound, the other Virbitsky said he’s a “very good One person each trio mem- beyond the diamond. needed to get better.” two are right there to tell him housemate” — Dees even lets ber credited for who they are No matter what the future In the first two seasons they what he did wrong or encour- him pick off of his food every now today was Penn State pitching holds, Dees said he expects his were on the squad, Penn State age him “to empty the tank,” as and then. coach Josh Newman, who spent counterparts to still be with him had an overall 37-61 record. While Virbitsky likes to say. The trio has had its fair share of time in the major leagues. New- through some of the biggest Virbitsky acknowledged there “We’re keeping each other ac- off-the-field shenanigans as well, man joined Rob Cooper’s staff moments of his life. were a handful of reasons for countable, but also helping each and all three recalled locker room the same year Dees, Larkin and “I think we’ll always be friends,” that, he said the trio’s vision of other in the right way,” Larkin mischief as their top memory Virbitsky arrived on campus. Dees said. “I think we’ll always what it could be pushed them to said. “When you all have the — including the origin of Dees’ In the same way the three pitch- stay in touch, and wherever we’re flip the script. same common goal, when you nickname and Xbox name. ers have all grown into the pro- at after this year [or] next year, “Having that hope drove us all want to help each other be the “My sophomore year, I hid gram, Newman has grown right we’re gonna always stay con- and motivated us to pull as many best possible player that we can [Kyle’s] jersey or something be- alongside them. However, he de- nected. I think those guys will be people along to get what we ulti- be, it really helps.” fore a game,” Dees said. “I re- flected all the credit for where in my wedding.” mately wanted out of this whole Dees, Larkin and Virbitsky member he was flustered — he they are to the guys themselves As for Larkin, he can’t imagine experience,” Virbitsky said. “I agree they get locked into the was running around the locker and student assistant coach Aus- a world where Dees and Virbitsky think me, Bailey and Conor really game when they’re on the bump room looking for his jersey, and tin Urban, who also spent time in aren’t a part of his life — whether believed in what we were doing and can’t focus on much outside he found out it was me. Then professional baseball. it’s college baseball, professional — believed that we were doing of their headspace. But on days he came and took something “These guys represent every- baseball or just life in general. the right things for the right rea- they’re not toeing the rubber, out of my locker. It was a funny thing that you could ever dream “We’ve been around each other sons and the results were gonna there’s no envious eyes following back-and-forth between me and of coaching,” Newman told the for too long now where it’d be come.” along from the dugout. him.” Collegian. “To be a part of their weird to not continue talking,” Each of the hurlers said the “When I’m on the mound, I Virbitsky set the record straight journey as young men, watch Larkin said. “I love these two competitive fire kept throughout don’t notice much besides me — the “something” he took was them develop and [watch] who guys with everything I have. Be- practices and the offseason has pitching. But when they’re on the Dees’ good-luck Yoda doll, which they are as people is why you do ing around them every day when pushed them to want to outwork mound, they have my full sup- inspired teammates to refer to it.” it comes to bullpens, games or each other. Larkin said having port,” Dees told the Collegian. “I Dees as “Daddy Yoda.” Newman also credited the trio whatever is so joyful for me.” Dees and Virbitsky pushing him don’t think there’s any jealousy or Larkin said it’s funny to look for the way it treated him and brought him to places he never bad blood when the others are on back on the strides they’ve made turned Happy Valley into a home, To email reporter: [email protected]. could have imagined. the mound. It’s all just we want in their relationship on and off the despite all of them experiencing Follow him on Twitter at @mralph59. Two sports create athlete connection By Spencer Ripchik “My father influenced me to for one season before making the like Baker Mayfield, because he creates a much broader athletic The Daily Collegian play football, and it wasn’t some- trek west to Penn State earlier just leaves it all out there and IQ, and that absolutely translates,” thing forced upon me and my this offseason. brings crazy energy on the field.” Tambroni said. While Penn State’s players brother,” Filardi said. “It helped Members of the team frequent- Filardi, Donaghy and Berry The two one-time quarter- spend their time around one sport that my father played at Penn ly use NFL players to model their have all shown their football tal- backs, Filardi and Berry, have — lacrosse — more than any State and is one of the reasons play on the lacrosse field after. ents in different ways on the field. certain gridiron skill sets that other, there is an- I chose to play lacrosse at Penn A common theme throughout Berry was the quarterback for have carried over to their play on other that helps State.” the squad is the appreciation Ward Melville High School, and the lacrosse field. LACROSSE keep the team Filardi’s father played for Joe for former New Orleans Saints he led his squad from Long Island Filardi said he thinks he knows glued together Paterno and went on to win the quarterback Drew Brees. to a county championship — cre- how to stay nimble on the field every week. Rose Bowl in his time donning Junior faceoff specialist Jor- ating a moment he cherishes to from a defensive standpoint The blue and white’s love for the blue and white. dan Donaghy is enamored by this day. thanks to his experience with lacrosse is closely followed by For other players on the team, how Brees carries himself away “My best memory from play- football. football. their inspiration was sparked from the field in terms of family ing football was playing in my last “I think the footwork part of Most of the team has not partic- from watching NFL professionals involvement. high school game,” Berry said. the game translates really well,” ipated in organized football, but battle it out on Sundays. “I like Drew Brees, because “Even though we lost our county Filardi said. “You have to have to there are a number of ex-football Freshman midfielder Trey he’s a big family guy,” Donaghy championship, it was the last have good footwork not only as a players scattered throughout the Berry started playing football said. “I try to spend as much of time playing with all my friends defensive back in football, but as a team. after watching one of his favor- my time with my family, just like that I grew up with from kinder- defender in lacrosse.” Some of these ex-gridiron ite teams, the New York Giants, Brees.” garten to senior year. It was just On the lacrosse field, the mid- gladiators were motivated to play triumph over the New England Berry likes Brees’ mentality, something very special.” fielder is who gets the ball into football by their parents’ history Patriots in one of their two Super too, but when it comes to his time Not only do the players on the other offensive players’ sticks with the sport. Bowl wins over the Patriots. on the field, the midfielder said coach Jeff Tambroni’s team like the quarterback. Berry has Defenseman Gerald Filardi Jr. “When the Giants won the he wants an attitude like Cleve- have a football background, but been able to use his experience at plays in the spring for the blue Super Bowl over the Patriots, it land Browns quarterback Baker some of them share Long Island the quarterback spot to help him and white, unlike his father who just inspired me to play football,” Mayfield’s. football origins. as a midfielder at Penn State. competed for Penn State’s foot- Berry said. “I liked how the Super “I like to look at guys like Drew Filardi also played quarterback “Midfield and quarterback are ball team from 1992 through 1996. Bowl bonds everybody together. I Brees just because of his mental- and free safety on Long Island kind of the same,” Berry said. However, Filardi’s dad’s impact always thought it was amazing at ity and how he handles things,” at Half Hollow Hills West High “You can see the whole field on his lifelong sports career is such a young age.” Berry said. “From a competitive School. Berry and Filardi even and lead people to make sure undeniable. Berry played at Stony Brook standpoint, I like to look at a guy faced off against each other once, everybody is on the same page.” brewing a small rivalry between Penn State’s players can show- the two. case their footwork and leader- “We have talked a little bit ship on the lacrosse field a little about it,” Berry said. “It’s funny, bit. But they get to show their full we actually scrimmaged each football abilities at the Turkey other once, but they didn’t keep Trot football game. score, which was a shame.” The Turkey Trot is a two-mile After their high school careers, race that happens just before the the three players decided to con- players go their separate ways for tinue their athletic endeavors in winter break. Shortly after, they lacrosse rather than football. play a football game called the Donaghy’s decision was not Turkey Bowl. easy, but he knew he would be “Right before we go home for better off competing in lacrosse winter break, we will run a Tur- in college than football. key Trot, which is a little less than “It was a difficult decision,” two miles around campus, and Donaghy said. “I love playing it’s timed,” Filardi said. “Then, football, but with a back injury we will have a lot of different ac- and my size, it made it pretty easy tivities, but at the end we have to choose lacrosse.” a pretty organized Turkey Bowl Although the players ended up with the guys. The MVP of the picking lacrosse, Tambroni said game gets a turkey leg.” he thinks skills from other sports Over the years, the Turkey translate well and can be benefi- Bowl has created memorable cial to their performances in their moments for the players, particu- chosen sport. larly a moment graduate goalten- “I would say the mindset of der Colby Kneese is consistently Courtesy of Gerald Filardi Jr. an athlete that is able to tran- teased about. Gerald Filardi Jr., Trey Berry and Jordan Donaghy all played football in high school and now play together on sition from basketball, hock- Visit collegian.psu.edu to read Penn State’s lacrosse team. ey or football to lacrosse just the full story.