Demeo, Gunther and Kopiec to lead women’s track and field

Alex Demeo ’19, Erin Gunther ’19 and Natalie Kopiec ’19 were recently named captains of the women’s track and field team for the 2019 season.

Each of the new captains appear in the Salve Regina record book. Demeo broke the school record in the 10,000 meters as a sophomore, recording 38:20.73 in an all-New England qualifying performance at the New England championships. Kopiec also recorded a school best in the New England championships, speeding over the 400-meter hurdles in 66.25. Gunther leaped 36’9” in the triple jump last spring to eclipse the former mark held by her teammate Madison Stanley.

“All three of these women are really good athletes,” said head coach Matt Hird. “Their ability as well as their dedication to training and doing all the little things inspires others. They epitomize the standards of behavior expected of Salve Regina track and field athletes and they do it without thinking. With them, it is second nature.

“However, as laudatory as these traits are, they are not why these three were elected captains,” Hird added. “Every single ballot from their teammates indicated that the reason for their votes was the tremendously supportive nature of these student athletes. If not preparing for their own competitions, they are hanging around the track, circles or runways issuing streams of encouragement. They enjoy everyone’s company and embody a culture of empathy, family and inclusiveness which spreads outward to include everyone and unconsciously create an empowering and high productive team culture. We are very fortunate to have these outstanding young women on our team.”