By Grace Malec, Sports Editor
Wall of Aquinas facility; Southside Ice Arena – Photo by Grace Malec
The 2024-2025 academic year brought a carousel of changes to the athletic department, with the introduction of Dr. Ronald Reeves and Jasper Fell, who departed Aquinas following the conclusion of the last academic year. With the opening of these positions brought another search for a Director of Intercollegiate Athletics to serve the Aquinas community.
During this time of change, the college named Connor Leppink as the Deputy Athletic Director, joining the department in May of 2025. Prior to his hiring at Aquinas, Leppink served as the Associate Athletic Director for Finance and External Relations at Carthage College in Kenosha, Wis.
“I wanted to move back to West Michigan to be closer to my family, and Aquinas offered the perfect opportunity for the next step in my career,” Leppink said. “More than anything, it was the people. Everyone I met throughout the process was nothing short of amazing.”
Following the hiring of Leppink, the college welcomed the new Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Damon Bouwkamp, an alumni of Aquinas, graduating from the college in 2000.
“He impressed me throughout the interview process with both his vision and his genuine care for people,” Leppink said regarding the hiring of Bouwkamp. “I believe he will be a tremendous addition to our team.”
Aquinas flag hangs in the hall of Sturrus Sports and Fitness Center – Photo by Grace Malec
In addition to leadership roles that were filled, the college also welcomed Mackenzie Yob, an assistant Athletic Director and Sports Performance and Medicine Staff. Alongside Yob, the college announced a new assistant Athletic Trainer to join staff, McKennah Hopkins.
The coaching staff was no exception to these changes in athletics. The Aquinas community is introducing two new teams this year; Division III Men’s ACHA (American Collegiate Hockey Association) Hockey and Women’s Stunt. Sue Smith, the current head cheer coach will continue her role as well as coach the new Stunt team. The new Division III hockey team brings two new staff members with it, Nolan Smith will serve as the head coach for Division III men’s hockey alongside assistant coach Lance Hoezee.
Division III hockey coach, Nolan Smith – Photo by Grace Malec
The athletics department also announced the hiring of Emma Hoch who will serve as the head coach of Aquinas Women’s hockey, Matt Denhartigh, a former Aquinas athlete who will serve as the head coach of Aquinas Golf and Jenna Smith, the former Aquinas Women’s Soccer Reserve coach who will serve as the Interim Head coach of Women’s Soccer.
With all the new staff members, the hopes are even higher for this year of athletics. After a successful year of WHAC titles, new goals are on the horizon for the Saints.
Interim Head Women’s Soccer coach, Jenna Smith – Photo by Grace Malec
The Saint 