By: Maron Guimarães – Seniors play an important role in Morningside athletics, both on and off the court and field. With years of experience behind them, senior athletes help guide their teams through leadership, responsibility, and example.
For many teams, seniors are looked at as role models. Natan Luiz Alves, a senior on the volleyball team from Espírito Santo, Brazil, explained that being a senior comes with responsibility. “Being a senior means responsibility,” Alves quotes. “Being a role model, having great influence over the young guys can generate a good type of pressure. It means a lot to be able to guide and help them to figure themselves out during their time here.”
Alves also shared that he tries to remind younger teammates to enjoy their time at Morningside, work hard for their goals, and be good people, lessons he believes are as important as athletic success.
Leadership also shows up through guidance and support. Mia Wenzel, a senior on the tennis team from Luverne, Minnesota, said being a senior allows her to help younger teammates by sharing knowledge she’s gained over the four years. “Being a senior on this team is really cool because I get to help out the youngers,” Wenzel said. “I feel like I know a lot of good resources that maybe some of the younger classes don’t know since I’ve been here for four years.”
When it comes to advice, Wenzel emphasized communication. She encourages younger teammates to ask questions and not be afraid to look for help, even when it feels out of your comfort zone. She believes learning those habits early makes a big difference in your time here at Morningside.
Seniors like Alves and Wenzel help shape the culture of Morningside athletics by leading with experience, support, and consistency. Their impact goes beyond results, leaving a forever influence on the teams they guide.
Senior Day VS Jamestown University 10/18/25
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