Academy seniors to study, compete at Catholic colleges after graduation

WATCHUNG — Payton Kochanski and Shea Murphy, seniors at Mount Saint Mary Academy,  confirmed Jan. 30 at Mother Mary Patrick Gymnasium, their Offer of Admission and commitment to continue their academic and athletic careers in college.

Kochanski said she plans to study and compete in track and field at Saint Joseph’s University, Philadelphia.

Murphy said she plans to study and play softball at Salve Regina University, Newport, RI.

“I feel very fortunate to be able to continue both my academic and athletic career at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia,” Kochanski said. “While visiting St. Joe’s, I felt the same warmth and community as I do at the Mount.

“I am so grateful for my coaches, Mount’s administration and faculty, my friends, and especially my family who encouraged me to be my best throughout this process. ‘The Hawk Will Never Die.’”

“Payton’s commitment, passion, persistence, and patience has enabled her to soar too new heights,” said Andre Bridgett, Mount Saint Mary’s cross country/winter track/spring track coach. “Those few ingredients will assist her greatly as she begins the next chapter of her academic and athletic journey.”

For Murphy, “Softball has been a big part of my life for a long time. I’m very excited about being given the opportunity to play at the next level and extend my playing career a little longer. I have many great softball memories here at the Mount and appreciate all that my teammates and coaches have done for me.”

Brittany Maldonado, varsity softball coach, noted, “Shea has been an integral part of Mount softball’s success. We are excited to see her continue to fulfill her academic and athletic potential at Salve Regina University, and we are looking forward to a great season ahead.”

“Congratulations to both Payton and Shea, their families, teammates, coaches, teachers and friends,” said Elizabeth Roper, director of College Counseling. “They have each continued to pursue their dreams of being female student-athletes at the collegiate level and have worked hard to achieve their goals.  The academic, athletic, and faith-filled experiences they have had at the Mount will provide a great foundation to their collegiate careers at St. Joe’s and Salve Regina. We look forward to continuing to celebrate them through their senior year and seasons.”