FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -  Nova Southeastern University men's and women's cross country and track and field head coach Bryan Hagopian has released a list of prospective 2016-17 student-athlete newcomers that will fill in important spots of graduating seniors.

The seven new Sharks come from all over the country as well as an international student-athlete from Morocco. Hagopian and his outstanding coaching staff have worked hard to come up with a strong list of newcomers to compensate for the departure of graduating Sharks. These newcomers were selected for their academic and athletic standings and are due to spice up the Sharks frenzy during the 2016 Cross Country fall season and 2017 Track and Field spring season.

It is expected that there will be more newcomers added to the list as the Sharks get closer to the start of the 2016-17 school year. The new signees have shared their reasoning for choosing the Sharks and the Nova Southeastern University student life below.


Aaron Benavidez (Pole Vault) – Brennan HS, TX
I decided to become a shark because it felt more like home than any other college I visited. I felt that I could really improve in vaulting and take my skill very far.  The campus was/is beautiful, the coaching staff made me feel at home. Being at nova made me feel comfortable. I am both honored and filled with joy to say I am a shark. Thank you for this opportunity! 

 

Nick Curci (Pole Vault) - The Prout School, RI
I choose Nova because the moment that I stepped foot on campus I felt welcomed. The small classes, friendly students, and helpful staff all helped make Nova feel like a home for me. I am very excited to be a part of such a diverse and talented team and I can't wait to work hard this season. I know that some students have trouble transitioning from high school to college but I know that Nova is going to be there for me every step of the way. 



Jessica Germany (XC / Distance) – Long Beach State University, CA
Why am I going to NSU?
When I made a list of everything I wanted in a college, I only hoped I'd find a school that had the majority of the things.  I never expected any university to have it all. Nova Southeastern University was everything and more. The coaches were intelligent and clearly invested in their athletes, the team dynamic was great, the facilities were phenomenal, and the campus was absolutely gorgeous, and not to mention located in South Florida.  As a transfer, NSU is a second chance for me.  When I visited the campus I could envision all of my dreams coming true. Looking forward to fall 2016 where I will work with a team and coaching staff that will be right by side as I pursue my goals in athletics and academics.

 


Erin Blackwell (XC / Distance) - Nicholls State University, LA
Why am I going to NSU?
After suffering an injury, while participating in athletics at an out of state school, I decided it would be best to continue my education at a school that is closer to home. Nova Southeastern has a strong combination of athletics and academics, with many majors to choose from. After visiting the beautiful campus, and meeting some coaches and staff, I decided that NSU would be a great place to further my education and athletic career. Go Sharks!

 
 

Morgan Will (XC / Distance) – Ocean Lakes HS, MD
NSU was the only campus that I went to where the mention of Marine Biology was an actual conversation starter.  Everyone I encountered on my visit was friendly and helpful, the campus was beautiful, and the running team was just what I was hoping to find.  The family feel and hard work ethic were evident after only a few hours.  There were also several athletes with similar times to mine, so I will be able to train and improve along with my teammates.  I am extremely excited to begin my college career at Nova and look forward to the many team successes to come in the future.



 
Mira Bendrif (Jumps) - Lycee Scientifique Acadmey, Morocco
I have chosen Nova Southeastern University because it's one of the best universities where a student athlete can reconcile between his studies and his career as a high-level athlete. Nova has a very good business school and great sport facilities. In the case that most directly affects my choice is the coaching staff. They have done so much to help me integrate this university. I wouldn't get this choice without their assistance. I cannot be more thankful to them and I promise that I will do all my best to make them proud of me.
I'm so happy and excited to get to Nova and begin a new experience.


 

Giyanna Dowden (Jumps) - Central Texas Christian School, TX
In aspiration to become a doctor, I wanted to go to the school with great science majors. When I toured NSU for the first time last spring I immediately fell in love with the campus and all it has to offer. After more deliberation and research, Nova just felt like home.