I make no secret of how much I value DOT's service academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY. And many at DOT share my appreciation. So you can understand our excitement at the opportunity to welcome the USMMA men's and women's basketball teams to Washington, DC, this past Saturday to face their Landmark Conference rivals, Catholic University.
Maritime Administrator David Matsuda gave me the play-by-play on the Mariners’ efforts to bring some victories back to Kings Point.
Administrator Matsuda with the USMMA Women's Basketball Team
The Lady Mariners fought hard against the 20th-ranked Cardinals with leadership from point guard Marlee Chovich of Lake Oswego, Oregon. Unfortunately, despite a strong second half scoring effort from Reshonda Josephs of nearby Culpepper, VA, our Mariners fell to the reigning Landmark Conference champions, 67-30.
During the women's play, the men's team watched supportively, mentally preparing for a tough matchup of their own against the nationally-ranked Catholic University Cardinals.
Senior captain Roshenda Josephs' double-double came from a team-high 11 points and 11 rebounds
Photo courtesy www.usmmasports.com.
Freshman guard Preston Padgett hits a trey to open Mariners second half scoring.
Photo courtesy www.usmmasports.com.
Still, no one at DOT can be disappointed with the Mariners. In both games, our athletes played with all of the sportsmanship and honor that characterize the Academy's midshipmen.
After graduation, these cadets will serve our nation as leaders in a maritime industry that supports America's economic, transportation and defense needs. And the same qualities the Mariner hoopsters demonstrate on the court will help them fulfill their professional duties for years to come.
Administrator Matsuda with the USMMA men's basketball team
As Administrator Matsuda said, “I am thrilled with the turnout of supporters for USMMA athletes this weekend. MarAd employees and our local USMMA alumni and parents all helped me cheer on men and women who have chosen a service-oriented career field and will become future leaders in our maritime industry.”
I offer my congratulations and continued support not only our athletes, but to everyone at Kings Point. Our nation continues to rely on capable merchant mariners to keep America strong and secure, and I know these young men and women will leave the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy more than prepared to handle the 21st century challenges of maritime service.
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