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Driving community spirit: Kathy McKay's impact on George Mason

Katarina Benson — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 12:44:25 +0000

Driving community spirit: Kathy McKay's impact on George Mason Katarina Benson Tue, 12/16/2025 - 07:44

Kathleen (Kathy) McKay has deep ties to Fairfax, Virginia, her hometown. Her parents, James "Smilin’ Jim" and Ruth Averill McKay, were pioneers in the Fairfax business community; her father opened Jim McKay Chevrolet in 1956, becoming one of the first car dealers in the area.

As student athlete at Woodson High School, she grew up near ��'s burgeoning Fairfax ��. “I played field hockey, I played softball, and I was a swimmer,” she said.

McKay with Mason basketball players on the K. McKay Court. Photo provided by Mason Athletics

Much of that swim experience took place at a neighborhood club, where her own daughters still hold records from the 1990s. After graduating from James Madison University, she returned to Fairfax.

McKay is now the president of Jim McKay Chevrolet, a sponsor for many student activities and sports at George Mason, and Intercollegiate Athletics has been at the heart of her personal connection with the university. Since the mid-1990s, she’s been an avid Patriots fan, attending many men's and women's basketball games, including the ones out of town, often with her daughters and now her grandchildren.

“I’ve always been a sports person,” McKay said. “I love college athletics; it’s the excitement. This is something that the athletes really, really want to do, and so few make it [to this level].”

She also appreciates the role college sports plays in bringing a community together. “It’s everything. No matter what your preference is, we offer every sport to allow a fan to be involved.”

McKay's support extends far beyond the sidelines. She has been a generous donor to George Mason for nearly 20 years, serving as a member of the Patriot Club Advisory Board and in the Green Coat Society, which recognizes generous, multi-year donors.

In 2017, she made a leadership gift to the university's basketball fundraising campaign, resulting in the naming of the K. McKay Court at the Recreation Athletic Complex (RAC). Her philanthropy has included substantial gifts—in conjunction with the family-linked Richard W. Averill Foundation and Jim McKay Chevrolet—to a variety of George Mason’s teams, including a pledge that touched all 22 sports teams during an annual Mason Vision Day.

She has also made gifts to the College of Visual and Performing Arts' scholarship benefit ARTS by George! and to the Green Machine ensembles.

“Kathy McKay embodies the spirit of George Mason and the Northern Virginia community,” said Marvin Lewis, assistant vice president and director of Intercollegiate Athletics. “Her loyalty and generosity have touched every corner of our program—from cheering courtside to investing in opportunities that enrich the student-athlete experience. Kathy’s passion, rooted in family and community, reflects the very best of what it means to be a Patriot, and we’re incredibly fortunate to have her in our corner.”

McKay and President Washington. Photo provided by Mason Athletics

McKay carries on a family tradition of philanthropy and community service—George Mason’s Jim McKay Natatorium in the Aquatic and Fitness Center on the Fairfax ��, a regional resource that includes a 50-meter Olympic-sized competition pool, bears the name of her father. She is continuing that tradition and is encouraging a culture of connected philanthropy through her own children: her daughter, April, and son-in-law, Matt, are also active supporters of George Mason Athletics.

McKay has been there for some of basketball’s biggest moments.

She remembers being warmly welcomed by the men’s basketball team, including then-coach Jim Larrañaga and his wife, Liz, when she traveled with the team to the ESPN Events Invitational Thanksgiving tournament in Orlando, Florida, in 2007. She also attended Atlantic 10 Conference (A-10) Tournaments at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, including “during COVID, in March 2020, [when] we got sent home after winning our first game.”

McKay was also in the front rows at the Robins Center in Richmond when the men’s basketball team defeated the University of Richmond to claim the 2025 A-10 regular season title, the team’s first. That same season saw Patriots Head Coach Tony Skinn, whom McKay had known since his undergraduate days, named A1-0 Coach of the Year.

“Tony was my pick from day one when we were searching for a coach,” she said.

With a grandson in tow, McKay traveled in March 2025 with the women’s basketball team to Richmond for the A-10 Women's Basketball Championship, where George Mason defeated St. Joseph’s to claim the title for the first time.

“I couldn’t not go, and they win this thing—because I really thought they could,” she said.

She also joined the women’s team for the España 2025 cultural and athletic expedition, where the Patriots played international opponents in Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona. With her on the trip was her eldest granddaughter, who has been attending games with McKay since she was six months old.

“Riley and I had a time together that neither one of us will ever forget!” she said.

She plans to enjoy as many games and team activities as she can fit on her calendar. “I love it!” she said. “I’m always looking at the schedule to see who’s playing what.”

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The run that changed a program: George Mason marks the 20th anniversary of its 2006 Final Four appearance

Katarina Benson — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 20:47:55 +0000

The run that changed a program: George Mason marks the 20th anniversary of its 2006 Final Four appearance Katarina Benson Wed, 12/10/2025 - 15:47

The 2006 Final Four run by the �� men’s basketball team was an achievement so improbable, so unprecedented, that it transformed how the college basketball world viewed possibility itself.

Photo by George Mason Athletics

Now, 20 years later, the Patriots will honor that magical postseason journey on Saturday, December 13, when they host Old Dominion University at EagleBank Arena. That run endures as one of the most defining moments in the university’s history and one of the NCAA Tournament’s most memorable Cinderella stories. What began as a hopeful March ended with a mid-major program standing on college basketball’s biggest stage.

They captured the hearts of the nation along the way.

“That definitely opened the door for mid-majors,” said George Mason men’s basketball Head Coach Tony Skinn, who was the starting point guard on that Final Four team. “It showed that if you have belief, the right players, and the right coaches, anything can happen in the NCAA Tournament.”

That belief was tested again and again throughout that 2006 run.

Competing out of the relatively unknown Colonial Athletic Association, the Patriots became the league’s first Final Four representative, toppling one powerhouse after another.

They opened tournament play with a 75-65 win over a Michigan State, a team that had returned four starters from the previous season’s Final Four squad. The sixth-seeded Spartans had outlasted George Mason by six points in an early regular-season meeting a year earlier.

Lamar Butler signing copies of Sports Illustrated at the Bookstore. Photo by Office of University Branding

Next came the North Carolina Tar Heels, the No. 3 seed and the reigning NCAA champions, who fell 65-60 in the Patriots’ second and final game in Dayton, Ohio. From there, George Mason returned to the nearby Verizon Center in Washington, D.C., where a heavily partisan crowd watched four Patriots score in double figures in a 63-55 Sweet 16 win over fellow mid-major and No. 7 overall seed Wichita State University. That victory advanced the Patriots to the Elite Eight against overall No. 1 seed University of Connecticut.

Loaded with talent, the Huskies featured four players who would soon be selected in the first round of the NBA Draft, and five who would be among the league’s top 40 picks. They were also led by Hall of Fame Coach Jim Calhoun.

Fueled by a massive and vocal Mason Nation presence, the Patriots embraced the underdog role against UConn. After trailing by as many as 12 points in the first half and nine in the second, George Mason rallied to shock the sports world with an 86-84 overtime win—one of the biggest upsets in NCAA Tournament history —punctuating the victory with a trip to the Final Four in Indianapolis.

“It was great for college basketball,” said Lamar Butler, a former standout senior guard on that Final Four team who now serves as George Mason’s director of player development. “That’s what people watch the tournament for.”

Final Four watch party in the Johnson Center. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

In the years since, Virginia Commonwealth University (2011), Loyola Chicago (2018), UCLA (2021), and North Carolina State (2024) have also reached the Final Four as 11th seeds. LSU was the first to accomplish the feat in 1986.

“We believed in ourselves,” said Jim Larrañaga who serves as head coach at George Mason from 1997 to 2011. “We weren’t hoping to win. We believed we would win.”

More than 10,000 fans packed what was then the Patriot Center when the team returned home following its dramatic win over UConn.

Before the tournament, George Mason was largely unknown beyond the Mid-Atlantic region. That changed almost overnight. The team’s improbable run generated an estimated $677.5 million in free publicity from print and broadcast exposure, according to a study conducted by Robert Baker, former interim dean of the College of Education and Human Development and Professor Emeritus of Sport, Recreation, and Tourism Management.

The university also reported an 800% increase in traffic to its official website, while the university bookstore in the Johnson Center—typically averaging $11,000 in weekly sales—made shy of $1 million in the 10 days leading up to the Final Four. University admission inquiries increased by 350%, with out-of-state applications rising by 40%.

Butler still recalls when he playing overseas several months later, walking through a town in Croatia wearing a George Mason shirt, and a local boy approached him.

“George Mason–Final Four!” the boy exclaimed, much to Butler’s astonishment.

This weekend’s remembrance festivities will include the return of most members of the 2006 team, and the raising of a banner in EagleBank Arena in honor of the now-retired Larrañaga.

“It was one of those moments that, when you experience it, it never really leaves your mindset,” Skinn said. “To think that it was 20 years ago is unbelievable, but having a day to celebrate it is definitely exciting.”

This weekend, that memory returns to life as a new generation of Patriots gathers to celebrate the run that changed everything.

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From Mason to the majors, George Mason statistics students are driving athletic success

Teresa Donnellan — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 18:08:03 +0000

From Mason to the majors, George Mason statistics students are driving athletic success Teresa Donnellan Fri, 11/07/2025 - 13:08

�� students are proving a statistics degree can take you all the way to the pros. Students gathered in the Johnson Center on November 5 for a Sports Analytics Networking Event to learn about how data science is transforming athletics—and how George Mason students and alumni are leading the charge.

“Sports teams increasingly use data for developing strategies, boosting player performance, and improving fan engagement,” said Department of Statistics Assistant Professor Jonathan Auerbach. “Sports analytics allows students to turn their passion for sports and statistics into a high-impact and highly visible career.”

The first panel at the Sports Analytics Networking Event. From left to right: Moderator Associate Professor Brett Hunter, Cole Boller-Pinkham, David Buxton, and Abby Finch.

"The future of sports is data, and we have been working hard with our colleagues from statistics to provide new opportunities for our students,” said Sports Analytics Professor Craig Esherick.

The event, hosted by the Department of Statistics in collaboration with the School of Sport, Recreation, and Tourism Management; �� Athletics; the �� student chapter of the American Statistical Association; and the Sport Management Society featured two panels and a networking session designed to connect students with alumni working in sports analytics and those currently helping George Mason athletes thrive.

From Mason to the Majors

“Every team I’ve worked on, we have a lot of data, and nobody knows what to do with it,” explained Abby Finch, an alum who worked in Baseball Technology for the New York Mets after graduating from George Mason statistics, during the first panel. “Having somebody who understands the player development side of baseball as well as what these data points mean—and being able to translate that data in a way that coaches understand—has been very valuable.”

The Department of Statistics recognized Abby Finch (left) and David Buxton (right) as outstanding alumni. Photo provided.

Finch's fellow panelists included Cole Boller-Pinkham, a Honors College junior majoring in statistics with a concentration in sport analytics, currently interning with the United Soccer League, and David Buxton, an alum and specialist in player information for the Milwaukee Brewers. The panelists advised students interested in sports analytics careers to focus on developing the skill of interpreting and presenting data as well as analyzing it.

"Your goal isn’t necessarily to share your statistical knowledge,” said Buxton. “It’s to change people’s actions and help them buy into data-driven decision making.”

Analytics in George Mason Athletics

The second panel, moderated by Esherick, explored how George Mason integrates analytics into collegiate athletics.

“We use data supported insights to guide how we develop our athletes,” said Associate Director of Strength and Conditioning Faith Brown, whose academic research focuses on load monitoring in team sports. “We look at trends over time, adjust training loads, and even analyze preseason volume and intensity to reduce injury incidence. It’s not just lifting weights—it’s everything that goes into performance.”

The second panel at the Sports Analytics Networking Event. From left to right: Moderator Professor Craig Esherick, Derek Vigon, and Faith Brown. Photo provided.

Sports psychology also plays a critical role, noted Assistant Athletic Director and Director of Sport Psychology Derek Vigon, who has consulted for the National Football League (NFL)’s Detroit Lions and worked with athletes in the National Basketball Association (NBA), NFL, and MLB. “I interpret psychological data to help athletes and coaches understand stress responses and focus issues,” he said. “It’s all data, and it can be flipped to improve performance.”

Advice for Students

In addition to networking at events like this one, panelists advised students interested in sports analytics careers to be persistent and seize opportunities—such as joining George Mason’s Analytics Team, participating in prediction competitions and hackathons, and exploring internships in George Mason Athletics’ Patriot Performance Lab—when they come.

“If you’re passionate about it, keep moving forward and try not to take no for an answer,” advised Vigon. “Network, apply, and apply again. Eventually, it’ll happen.”

With alumni thriving in sports analytics, students contributing to cutting-edge research, and faculty integrating analytics into every facet of athletic performance, George Mason is positioning itself as a leader in sports analytics education. For students who dream of turning numbers into wins, George Mason can be the place where those dreams start.

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Off the Clock: Marathoner Susanna Sullivan is in it for the long run

Lauren Reuscher — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 13:19:35 +0000

Off the Clock: Marathoner Susanna Sullivan is in it for the long run Lauren Reuscher Thu, 09/25/2025 - 09:19

When �� track and field assistant coach Susanna Sullivan stepped onto the start line at the World Championships marathon in Tokyo, she carried with her the encouragement of the student-athletes she mentors, the lessons of her sixth-grade classroom, and the resilience of an athlete who never stopped believing.

The result was proof that it is never too late to keep improving. Sullivan delivered a career-best performance on the world stage, finishing fourth in the women's marathon with a time of 2:28:17.

Susanna Sullivan, assistant track and field coach at ��. Photo by Michael Scott

Outside her full-time job as a sixth-grade teacher in McLean, Virginia, Sullivan stays busy logging workouts and mentoring George Mason's distance runners as a volunteer assistant coach.

"My role at George Mason isn't about writing training plans," Sullivan said. "It's about being a resource, talking with the athletes about nutrition, recovery, or just being a cheerleader. I want them to see that if you make something a priority, you can make it work."

Head Coach Andrew Gerard has guided Sullivan’s training for the past five years, emphasizing patience and long-term growth. That philosophy has fueled Sullivan's steady rise, allowing her to run faster more than 15 years after her collegiate career ended.

“I love that there are endless opportunities to improve yourself as an athlete,” Sullivan said. “With the marathon, the ‘little things’ like sleep, nutrition, and strength work seem amplified because you're running so far. Patience and discipline make a big difference.”

Entering the World Championship race ranked No. 99 in the world, Sullivan battled sweltering conditions to finish just one spot off the podium. To date, only two American women have ever medaled in the event.

"Susanna's result was spectacular," Gerard said. "This was not a race for fast times—it was about racing the competition and handling the conditions. Susanna showed tremendous composure and toughness."

Sullivan took the lead in the race with a 17:10 split and led the field through 25K. The two favorites, Peres Jepchirchir of Kenya and Tigst Assefa of Ethiopia, passed the 35-year-old just after the 18-mile mark.

Prior to her appearance at the World Championship, Sullivan established herself among the nation's elite marathoners. As a professional runner for Brooks, she clocked an eye-opening 2:21:56 at the 2023 Chicago Marathon, one of the 10 fastest marathons ever run by an American woman.

Sullivan competed collegiately at the University of Notre Dame. Her time as a member of Capital Area Runners after college was marked by steady improvement, several top-10 performances at U.S. road championships, and two Olympic Trials appearances in the marathon.

“The World Championships are different from many other marathons I've done, because there is a higher emphasis on placement, rather than running as fast as you can,” Sullivan said. “That lends itself to a more tactical approach.”

The result was particularly sweet redemption after her 58th place finish in the same event at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, where she finished despite suffering a fractured kneecap mid-race. A grueling recovery raised doubts about her future.

Susanna Sullivan. Photo by Team Brooks

"To not only come back, but to be running better than I ever have, feels like such a gift," Sullivan said.

Her resilience was strengthened by the George Mason Athletics community. Training alongside passionate student-athletes helped her stay grounded and motivated through months of uncertainty, she said. Sullivan’s achievements offer proof of what is possible with grit, discipline, and consistency.

And she is already planning her next big race. “Immediately, I’m focused on recovering from the World Championships. I have wanted to run the TCS New York City Marathon for a while now, and that's coming up in early November,” she said.

“Longer term, I'm loving this journey with the team, and juggling teaching and running,” Sullivan said. “I hope to stay healthy and see what other opportunities running brings to see the world and test myself against the best.”

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George Mason Final Four 20th-Anniversary Celebration on Dec. 13 includes halftime program honoring Jim Larrañaga

Colleen Rich — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 16:46:00 +0000

George Mason Final Four 20th-Anniversary Celebration on Dec. 13 includes halftime program honoring Jim Larrañaga Colleen Rich Wed, 09/10/2025 - 12:46

The �� men’s basketball team will host a 20th-Anniversary Commemoration of its historic run to the 2006 NCAA Final Four on Saturday, December 13, when the Patriots face former conference rival Old Dominion at EagleBank Arena.

The weekend will honor the program’s iconic past while also celebrating its present momentum under Final Four starting point guard and current head coach Tony Skinn, BA Communication ’06. At halftime of the game, the program will recognize former head coach Jim Larrañaga with a banner that will permanently hang from the arena rafters. He will be joined by members of the 2006 Final Four team, creating a special moment for the George Mason community to relive one of the most significant chapters in program history.

Fans in attendance will enjoy a number of interactive elements to mark the occasion, including a one-of-a-kind commemorative giveaway, the opportunity to take photos with the Final Four trophy on the concourse, and in-game activations designed to engage Patriots of all ages.

To further mark the milestone, Athletics has unveiled a commemorative 20th Anniversary logo, which will appear on exclusive merchandise, social media campaigns, and storytelling platforms throughout the season. The program also will honor the life and legacy of the late Carolyn Marsh, affectionately known as “The Godmother of George Mason Basketball,” whose “CM” insignia will be worn by the team to celebrate her lasting impact on the program and community.

The 2006 Patriots made history as the first modern “Cinderella” to reach the NCAA Final Four, capturing the nation’s imagination with upset victories over Michigan State, North Carolina, and top-ranked Connecticut in what is widely considered the greatest Elite Eight triumph in tournament history.

Two starters from that legendary team remain central to the program’s success today. Skinn has led the Patriots to a school-record 47 victories in just two seasons as head coach, including the program’s first-ever Atlantic 10 regular season championship, new records for A-10 league wins (15) and home victories (18), and a return to the conference title game. His teammate Lamar Butler, the 2006 NCAA East Region Most Outstanding Player, continues to contribute as George Mason’s director of player development, a role he has held since 2023. Together, they embody the lasting legacy of the 2006 run and its continued influence on George Mason basketball.

Follow GoMason.com and @MasonMBB on social media for additional announcements and interactive fan elements tied to this milestone celebration.

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Coaches Caravan brings George Mason fans together

Colleen Rich — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 17:59:54 +0000

Coaches Caravan brings George Mason fans together Colleen Rich Fri, 08/29/2025 - 13:59

The Patriot spirit was on full display Wednesday evening as �� Athletics hosted its Coaches Caravan at the Farm Brewery at Broad Run in Haymarket, Virginia. George Mason Athletics supporters and community members gathered for an opportunity to connect with Mason's head coaches and university leadership in a relaxed festive setting.

Photo by Athletics

Marvin Lewis, the university's assistant vice president and director of athletics, opened the program welcoming the crowd and touting the recent success of the Patriots programs, both academically and athletically.

"We had a truly historic year—both in the classroom and in competition," said Lewis. "Academically, Mason student-athletes achieved a 95% graduation rate across all schools and posted a cumulative 3.37 GPA across our 22 programs. That success is a direct reflection of our coaches, who emphasize academics, accountability, and the ultimate goal of graduating from Mason."

Lewis added, "Competitively, we captured five conference championships—the first time we've done so in more than 30 years. We are Northern Virginia's team, and we invite everyone to be part of this journey—by telling our story, supporting our student-athletes, and showing up for all 22 of our sports."

President Gregory Washington was among the evening's special guests, joining Mason Nation to celebrate the momentum and growth across George Mason Athletics.

"We are making tremendous progress in our athletics program, and it's no accident—it's the result of outstanding leadership from Marvin Lewis and our coaches," said Washington. "Athletics is the front door to the university, and we will continue to provide strong support to ensure its success."

The highlight of the night was a lively Q&A session featuring four of Mason's head coaches: women's basketball's Vanessa Blair-Lewis, men's basketball's Tony Skinn, baseball's Shawn Camp, and men's soccer's Rich Costanzo. Each coach shared insights into their programs, reflected on recent achievements, and looked ahead to the upcoming seasons.

The evening concluded with a spirited round of George Mason trivia, giving fans a chance to test their knowledge and earn prizes.

George Mason's Science and Technology ��, Alumni Relations, and the Prince William County Chamber of Commerce were among the collaborators working with Athletics to establish a strong presence for “Northern Virginia’s team” in the region.

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George Mason extends Vice President and Director of Athletics Marvin Lewis’ contract through 2030

Katarina Benson — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:10:00 +0000

George Mason extends Vice President and Director of Athletics Marvin Lewis’ contract through 2030 Katarina Benson Tue, 08/19/2025 - 20:10

�� President Gregory Washington announced today that Marvin Lewis, assistant vice president and director of Athletics, has signed a two-year contract extension, securing his leadership through the 2029-30 academic year.

Since arriving at George Mason in July 2023, Lewis has ushered in a transformative era for George Mason Athletics with historic results and a new strategic plan. The 2024–25 season was one of the most successful in university history with the Patriots claiming five Atlantic 10 Conference championships—in men’s soccer, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, women’s indoor track, and men’s outdoor track. This marks the most titles in a single season since joining the A-10, and the program’s best overall performance since 1994–95.

Marvin Lewis. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“During his two years here, Marvin has led our Athletics department to new heights in a rapidly evolving landscape in intercollegiate athletics and has developed a clear vision for our future,” Washington said. “His vision will strengthen resources and lead our student-athletes to even greater success in the classroom and in competition, all while uniting our campuses, our alumni, the Northern Virginia community, and Patriots everywhere around George Mason Athletics.”

Earlier this year, the university launched “Patriots United. Together We Thrive.”—a five-year strategic plan for the Athletics program to build George Mason’s identity as Northern Virginia’s Team. The plan prioritizes competitive excellence, student-athlete development, strategic partnerships, and regional impact.

The Basketball and Academic Performance Center—a 30,000 square-foot, $30 million facility designed to elevate both athletic and academic outcomes—is the cornerstone of this plan. Groundbreaking is planned for late 2025, with the facility expected to open in 2027. In addition, in light of the House v. NCAA settlement and the new realities of providing enhanced student-athlete benefits under Name, Image and Likeness, Lewis has developed a comprehensive strategy to support George Mason’s student-athletes to succeed in the new era.

“I’m incredibly honored by the opportunity to continue leading George Mason Athletics—on the field, in the classroom, and throughout Northern Virginia,” Lewis said. “Over the past two years, we’ve built a powerful foundation rooted in belief, purpose, and community, and this is just the beginning. With the continued support of President Washington, our dedicated coaches, competitive and driven athletes, and the entire Mason Nation, we’re going to keep breaking barriers, inspiring excellence, and transforming lives through the power of sports. Together, we will grow and thrive.”

Lewis has brought financial stability and growth to the department, balancing the operating budget for two consecutive years. In 2024–25, George Mason Athletics raised more than $3 million in annual donations—a record—increased sponsorship revenue by 20%, and reached a ticket sales milestone of $900,000, including an increase in women’s basketball ticket sales by 68%. Embracing George Mason’s new brand, Lewis has also been instrumental in helping to modernize and unify athletics across campus and the region.

George Mason student-athletes excel academically, with a 3.37 average GPA for the 2024-25 academic year, and the department posted a 95% graduation success rate, the highest single-year rate in the program’s history. More than 40% of student-athletes were named to the Dean’s List with a 3.5 GPA or better, and 78 athletes were recognized as Provost Scholars with GPAs of 3.75 or better.

Lewis was recently appointed by the Atlantic 10 to the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Committee, a first for George Mason.

Before joining George Mason, Lewis held senior roles at Georgia Tech, University of Maryland, Brown University, and Georgia State, bringing with him nearly two decades of experience in college athletics, business strategy, and student-athlete advocacy.

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Quinn-Irons selected by Tampa Bay in the 2025 MLB Draft

Melanie Balog — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 18:11:15 +0000

Quinn-Irons selected by Tampa Bay in the 2025 MLB Draft Melanie Balog Mon, 07/14/2025 - 14:11

�� junior outfielder James Quinn-Irons was selected by the Tampa Bay Rays in the fifth round of the 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) Draft on Monday.

Quinn-Irons, a native of Reston, Virginia, was selected with the 147th overall pick.

"James is a special talent who hits for power and average, and uses the entire field," George Mason head coach Shawn Camp said. "He has a strong arm and runs the bases very well, and he's a leader on and off the field. He has trusted the process here at George Mason from day one and we are all looking forward to watching him at the professional level."

Quinn-Irons. Photo by George Mason Athletics

Quinn-Irons was invited to participate in the 2025 MLB Draft combine, held June 17-21 at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. The invitation-only event featured the top collegiate and high school players with more than 300 draft prospects, including 180 collegiate players, who were selected by a committee of MLB, USA Baseball and MLB Club scouting executives with feedback from all 30 MLB clubs.

Quinn-Irons was recognized on five All-America teams in 2025, including four first-team selections at the conclusion of the 2025 season. He was selected DIBaseball First Team All-American, Baseball America First Team All-America, American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA)/Rawlings NCAA Division I All-America First Team, National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) Division I All-America First Team and Perfect Game College Baseball Second Team All-American.

Quinn-Irons was named Atlantic 10 Player of the Year and was one of the 25 semifinalists for the 47th Golden Spikes Award, given annually to the best amateur baseball player in the nation. He is the first Golden Spikes Award semifinalist in George Mason baseball program history.

Among NCAA leaders, Quinn-Irons ranked second in the nation in hits (101) and RBI (85), fourth in total bases (177), tied for sixth in doubles (24), seventh in batting average (.419), ninth in on-base percentage (.523), tied for 17th in both runs scored (74) and stolen bases (36) and 23rd in slugging percentage (.734).

Quinn-Irons was a three-time Atlantic 10 Player of the Week, the most of any player in the league. He led the league in batting average (.419), hits (101), RBI (85), total bases (177), on-base percentage (.523), OPS (1.257) and doubles, was second in slugging percentage (.734), third in stolen bases (36), fourth in run scored (74), and was seventh in walks (36).

Quinn-Irons started all 61 games and had a batting average of .419 (101-for-241). He led the team in hits (101), doubles, (24), home runs (16) and RBI (85), was second in runs scored (74), stolen bases (36-43) and walks (39). He had 30 multi-hit games (5-2x, 4-2x, 3-10x, 2-16x), 26 multi-RBI games (5-2x, 4-5x, 3-5x, 2-14x), 24 multi-run games (4-1x, 3-5x, 2-18x) and two multi-home run games.

Quinn-Irons started 146 of his 148 games played over his three years with the Green and Gold with a .371 batting average with 208 hits, 33 home runs, 41 doubles, three triples, 160 RBI, 151 runs scored and 58 stolen bases.

Among George Mason all-time leaders, Quinn-Irons ranks second in both batting average (.371) and on-base percentage (.459), fourth in slugging percentage (.632), sixth in RBI (160), tied for sixth in home runs (33), tied for 11th in hit by pitch (28), 13th in runs scored (151), tied for 19th in doubles (41), tied for 20th in hits (208), 39th in at-bats (560), tied for 40th in total bases (262), 42nd in starts (146) and 50th in games played (148).

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George Mason Athletics embraces a new era of excellence

Katarina Benson — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 19:47:04 +0000

George Mason Athletics embraces a new era of excellence Katarina Benson Mon, 06/23/2025 - 15:47

��’s Intercollegiate Athletics is now entering one of the most significant transformations in its history. With the House v. NCAA settlement officially approved, a new era has begun—one in which institutions can directly provide Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) benefits to student-athletes.

This isn't just a shift in policy—it's a shift in possibility. It's a call to action.

George Mason's men's basketball team in EagleBank Arena. Photo by Art Pittman/Athletics

At George Mason, we are prepared and energized to lead in this next chapter. Our commitment to building championship-caliber programs remains unwavering, as proudly demonstrated by the success of our men's and women's basketball teams this past season. But our vision is even greater—one that reaches beyond the Atlantic 10 Conference and seeks national prominence, while serving as a vital source of pride for Mason Nation and Northern Virginia.

Now is the moment to rally. To invest. To elevate.

"We are standing at the edge of a new era—one that redefines what it means to support and empower student-athletes," said Marvin Lewis, director of Athletics. "The House settlement isn't just about policy change; it's about opportunity. At George Mason, we're embracing this moment to elevate our programs, deepen our impact, and rally our community like never before. Now is the time to dream bigger, invest boldly, and show the nation what Basketball Greatness—and Mason Nation—is truly made of."

Modernizing Our Approach to Ticketing and Fan Experience

To meet the demands of this new era and build the championship-level resources required to compete, George Mason Athletics—together with our partners at PlayFly Aspire—has conducted its first comprehensive review of basketball season ticket pricing and seating structure in over a decade. This long-overdue evaluation reflects our commitment to fairness, enhancing the fan experience, and positioning the Patriots to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics.

Using fan feedback, peer benchmarking, and data-driven insights, this review marks a critical step toward aligning with conference standards while creating more access, flexibility, and value for Mason Nation.

As a result of this review, George Mason Athletics will implement key enhancements beginning with the 2025–26 basketball season, as outlined below.

Nonpremium season tickets will increase by an average of 10%, an increase of less than $1 per game.
The new "all-in" cost (ticket + Patriot Club seat requirement) for nonpremium tickets will average $30 per game, aligned with the A-10 Conference average.
Premium seating (VIP Rows A, B, C) will increase by 25%, reflecting increased demand and value. The new "all-in" cost is $136 per game, still below the A-10 average of $188.
ValueBall options remain available in select sections for fans seeking affordability with no donation required.
New seat map and expanded Patriot Club donation levels (from 5 to 8) will provide greater flexibility and more paths for fans to support George Mason Athletics.
Additionally, loyalty-based discounts will be phased out to ensure consistency and equity in pricing.

Enhancing the Gold Room Experience

As part of our commitment to delivering a first-class game day, we are reimagining the Gold Room—our premier hospitality space inside EagleBank Arena. Updates include:

A new Gold Room Pass priced at $750, with eligible seat requirements applied toward the cost.
Enhanced food and beverage offerings, including curated finger foods, high-quality snacks, and exclusive local selections like the Brave & Bold Commonwealth IPA.
Upgrades to the atmosphere and layout to create a more engaging and elevated experience for our most dedicated supporters.

What to Expect Next

Direct communication will be provided in the coming weeks to all season ticketholders impacted by pricing or seat map changes.

Deposits of $50/seat have been applied to all accounts. Full season ticket invoices will be released in July, with interest-free payment plans available.

Seat upgrade and/or change requests from current ticket holders will be accepted through the end of June and honored before new buyer seat selection begins in mid-July.

Join Us

This is more than a ticket—it's a statement. An investment in the future of our student-athletes, our community, and a university on the rise. With your continued support, we will rise together.

For questions or to upgrade your season tickets, please contact your George Mason Athletics Ticket Representative or call 703-993-3270. You can also email the ticket department at icatix@gmu.edu.

Let's shape the future of college basketball—the George Mason way.

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“Patriots United. Together We Thrive.” is Athletics’ vision to strengthen George Mason’s competitive future

Katarina Benson — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 19:31:48 +0000

“Patriots United. Together We Thrive.” is Athletics’ vision to strengthen George Mason’s competitive future Katarina Benson Wed, 06/18/2025 - 15:31

It’s less about wins and losses for Marvin Lewis, and more about building enduring bridges for the long term.

The �� assistant vice president and director of Intercollegiate Athletics recently unveiled his vision with an ambitious five-year strategic plan called “Patriots United. Together We Thrive.” The plan aims to enhance student-athlete experiences, strengthen resources, raise competitiveness, curate storytelling and engagement opportunities, and cultivate a championship culture.

The plan is designed to keep George Mason competitive in the fast-changing college sports landscape with improved facilities, expanded resources, and robust support for student-athletes.

“I believe athletics is the front porch of this university, but our job is to unite the community,” Lewis said. “In this evolving landscape, our university needs athletics at the forefront, with our basketball programs gaining strong visibility—locally, regionally, and nationally. These pillars will guide our efforts as we continue to elevate George Mason Athletics and deliver on our mission to inspire and transform lives through the power of sports.”

Marvin Lewis. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Lewis presented his plan, as well as the fundraising priorities, to the university’s Board of Visitors (BOV) in February, where his call for support in building a winning program to unite the Northern Virginia community resonated.

“If we look around the country at the elite universities, I think you’ll find the combination of great athletics and great academics,” BOV board member Jon M. Peterson said at the meeting. “I think we’ve got the academics; I just think we need to bring the other side up to match.”

Key Highlights of the Plan

There is a $35 million fundraising goal within the Mason Now: Power the Possible comprehensive campaign, to elevate George Mason Athletics, enhance student-athlete experiences, and strengthen the university’s competitive position.

Basketball Greatness:

The university’s signature men’s and women’s basketball programs are central to the plan, with $22.5 million allocated to position George Mason as the unofficial college team of Northern Virginia.
Focused on attracting, recruiting, and retaining top-tier talent, providing championship-level support, and developing student-athletes to their full potential.
A significant portion will fund the construction of a new Basketball and Academic Performance Center, a 30,000-square-foot facility with practice courts, coaches’ offices, locker rooms, a weight room, and an academic support center for all student-athletes.

Sports Performance Ecosystem:

$8 million will be allocated to enhance mental health and wellness services, as well as nutrition and fueling programs, based on student-athlete feedback identifying these as the top requested resources.

Patriot Pathways: Champion to Career:

$3 million will go toward this program, which provides holistic development opportunities for student-athletes beyond sports, including financial education, career readiness, leadership development, and civic engagement.

Athletic Director Opportunity Fund:

Aimed at supporting emerging opportunities, this $1.5 million fund will invest in innovative technology pilots, one-time campus and local business collaborations, and special projects to strengthen recruitment and retention efforts.

Lewis predicts the addition of the Basketball and Academic Performance Center would be a “game-changer” for George Mason. This plan also highlights the need to upgrade the 40-year-old, 10,000-seat EagleBank Arena, which will require spending up to $10 million.

“Men’s and women’s basketball are our flagship programs,” said Lewis, a former four-year starting shooting guard and team captain at Georgia Tech, who led the Yellow Jackets to the 2004 national championship game. “They’re the most visible programs for our university, so making sure they have the resources they need is imperative.”

Lewis emphasized the broader benefits of a successful, high-profile comprehensive athletics program, noting the increased visibility can lead to increased student enrollment and attract more academically talented students who might not have otherwise considered George Mason.

While most current George Mason students weren’t around for the Patriots’ Cinderella run to the 2006 Final Four, Lewis believes winning can revive that same spirit. Signs of renewed excitement are already evident after both the men’s and women’s basketball teams had successful seasons this winter.

This season marked a historic year for George Mason Athletics, as the Patriots added to their proud legacy by capturing a combined five regular season titles and conference championships—marking the most successful year in the university’s Atlantic 10 era and the highest single-season total since 1994–95.

“Everybody loves winners,” Peterson said. “We need more winners, and we’ll attract more students.”

The magic starting to take hold at George Mason hasn’t gone unnoticed in the sports world, as Lewis was named to the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Committee in May.

But building a championship culture doesn’t come easily, and it will require an all-hands-on-deck approach from the entire campus and local community.

The university’s BOV recognized its role in this effort, using the May meeting to formally approve a name, image, likeness (NIL) policy that compensates student-athletes through personal branding opportunities. Lewis said the policy aligns George Mason with the Commonwealth of Virginia’s legal framework, pending NCAA legislation, and peer institutions.

Visit the Patriots United website

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Join Us

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“Patriots United. Together We Thrive.” is Athletics’ vision to strengthen George Mason’s competitive future

Key Highlights of the Plan

Basketball Greatness:

Sports Performance Ecosystem:

Patriot Pathways: Champion to Career:

Athletic Director Opportunity Fund:

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