EASTON, Mass. – The 2025-2026 Senior Reflections is a series of annual collections. Senior representatives of teams at Stonehill have been invited to contribute and reflect on their personal experiences over their four-year careers at Stonehill - both on and off the playing surface. 

Jade Roycroft, Women's Track & Field
 
Why Stonehill?
I chose Stonehill because I wanted a place that emphasized both academics and athletics. The balance between these made me feel confident that I would be getting the full experience of college to enable me to become a well-rounded person. I was especially proud to be part of Stonehill's inaugural D1 season and grow as an athlete alongside the school as we grew into our new role in the NEC. The sense of community here – both with athletics and the professors discussing small class sizes and the goal of connection made me feel supported and confident in my decision to commit to Stonehill.
 
How Stonehill has shaped you as a person?
Stonehill has shaped me to be a confident and self-aware person. When I first stepped foot onto campus, I thought I had everything figured out – as most freshmen do – I quickly realized how much I had to learn. From my experiences on the track & field team, in the classroom, and as SAAC (Student Athlete Advisory Committee) President, I've learned teamwork and growth. I've learned how to become a better student, lean on my peers for support, and appreciate every opportunity to learn from those around me. 
 
What has been your best moment at Stonehill – athletically and academically?
Athletically, my favorite moment was competing at Outdoor NEC Championships 2025, hosted by Stonehill. There was something special about competing on your home track, with your teammates and community cheering you on. I am especially grateful for my personal cheer squad, led by my parents cheering me on after each jump. It reminded me why I love track & field – not just for the competition but for the shared energy and pride. Academically, I've been proud of maintaining strong grades – achieving Dean's List honors all semesters – and the ability to be inducted into Chi Alpha Sigma, the National College Athlete Honor Society, and Lambda Pi Eta, the official Communication Studies Honor Society.  Seeing my hard work in the classroom pay off has been incredibly rewarding. 
 
Lessons Learned
Over the past four years, I've learned that I'm capable of much more than I ever thought. When I stay consistent and surround myself with a great support system, I can push myself to achieve my goals. Competing has taught me patience and discipline, and how to trust the process, especially after a bad meet realizing that technical events take time to perfect. Serving in SAAC has challenged me to lead confidently, listen to others, and bring people together across teams to work for the same goals. I've discovered that leadership is not about having all the answers but is about showing up for others and supporting everyone, pushing them towards growth. In May, I will be walking away from Stonehill more confident, resilient and grounded, and I'm proud of my growth both on and off the track. 
 
The biggest skills I will take away from Stonehill are leadership, communication, and time management. Being a student-athlete is incredibly rewarding but also leads to a packed schedule, which forces you to stay organized and adaptable. Balancing academics, athletics, and SAAC has taught me to stay organized and adapt to challenges. Through my experiences with coaches, teammates, and other members of the athletics community, I've developed confidence in my ability to collaborate, communicate clearly, and lead to bring people together to achieve a common goal. I've developed confidence in all areas, which will serve me well in any professional setting. Overall, Stonehill has taught me many things, but most importantly, I've learned to think, act, and lead with courage, fulfilling the Stonehill motto, Lux et Spes. 
 
To view the past Senior Reflections visit this site: 2025-2026 Senior Reflections. 

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