The Rollins College men’s and women’s basketball teams hosted their Senior Night on Wednesday, Feb. 26, in what turned out to be one of the most attended basketball games of their season. As both teams near the end of their seasons, fans, students, and alumni packed Warden Arena to celebrate the senior class and cheer on the Tars in their final home game.
The annual Senior Night tradition honored graduating players for their contributions to the program. Before tipoff, each senior was recognized on the court alongside their families and loved ones, reflecting on their collegiate careers and impact on the team. The women’s team honoured Kaitlyn Sanders (’25), Caroline Swartz (’25), Maddie Dillinger (’25), and Aaliyah Irizarry-Perez (’25), while the men’s team recognized Beau Frericks (’25), Sergey Grishaev (’25), and Braxton Barnhizer (’25).
“Playing my last home game at Rollins was a surreal experience. Rollins has taken me in and given me a community that I will cherish forever. The school and town of Winter Park is something out of a movie. The faithful fans, families, and my team have given incredible support. My last game in Warden Arena showed why I love this school so much. It was a wonderful atmosphere filled with joy and appreciation for our surroundings,” said Frericks.
Both the men’s and women’s teams have experienced competitive seasons, making this game a key moment in their journeys. With conference tournaments looming, a strong finish could provide momentum for post-season play.
The women’s team secured a victory with a final score of 75-58, giving their seniors a memorable sendoff. The men’s team fought hard but ultimately fell short, ending the game with a score of 79-93.
The atmosphere inside Warden Arena was fueled by enthusiastic fans and special game-day activities. Rollins Athletics encouraged students’ participation through promotions, emails offering free t-shirts, and a tailgate featuring cornhole and face painting. Kavon Griggs (’26) energized the crowd as he ran across the court waving the Rollins flag, keeping school spirit high throughout the night.
The Sirens Dance Team also honored their senior members during the game. The graduating dancers, Emma Shapiro (’25), Isabella Koster (’25), Cristina Vasquez (’25), and Bailey Dupre (’25), performed for the last time in Warden Arena, adding to the night’s emotional significance.
“Dancing at Rollins has been surreal,” said Koster. “I have been on the team all four years at Rollins and have always looked up to the seniors. It is super special to spend this time with everyone on the team.”
Adding to the evening’s festivities, four high school saxophonists from Bishop Moore Catholic High School, known as the Black and Gold Brigade, performed the national anthem, setting the stage for the evening.
Tipoff for the women’s game was at 5:30 p.m., which was followed by the men’s game at 7:30 p.m. Fans arrived early to be part of the Senior Night festivities and showed their support for Rollins basketball.
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