Fisher, Fairbanks lead USA Women’s U21 Volleyball to gold at Pan American Cup

By Richie Smiechowski, Senior Staff Writer • June 14, 2022

The U.S. Women’s U21 National Volleyball team captured its second Pan American Cup on Sunday, knocking off Argentina 3-1 at La Paz Arena in Baja California Sur, Mexico. The team dropped just two sets on their way to a 5-0 tournament sweep. The last time the U.S. claimed the Pan American Cup was in 2017. Pitt volleyball head coach Dan Fisher led the U.S. squad after being announced as head coach of the team on May 2.

Column | Volleyball deserves a national spotlight

By Richie Smiechowski, Senior Staff Writer • June 1, 2022

There may not be a sport on earth that is as exciting on a point-to-point basis as volleyball is, and it’s time for mainstream sports media and investors to realize that.

Column | Recent additions put Pitt men’s basketball into ‘win now’ mode

By Richie Smiechowski, Senior Staff Writer • May 24, 2022

Since April 1, Capel has finally started to show some of the recruiting prowess he was so highly touted for during his tenures at Duke and Oklahoma.

‘I see Pitt thriving’: Lacrosse seniors, grad students set bar for future teams

By Richie Smiechowski, Senior Staff Writer • April 20, 2022

During their only season as Panthers, 14 Pitt lacrosse seniors and grad students have laid the groundwork for future teams, establishing a culture of hard work and dedication within the program that is consistent with Pittsburgh’s blue-collar mentality.

Pitt falls to reigning national champions Boston College, 19-12

By Richie Smiechowski, Senior Staff Writer • March 26, 2022

Despite jumping out to an early lead, Pitt women’s lacrosse fell short to the defending national champions, No. 2 Boston College, losing 19-12 Saturday afternoon at Highmark Stadium.

‘Relentless’: Felix Wolter pushes toward goal of competing in 2024 Olympic Games

By Richie Smiechowski, Senior Staff Writer • February 18, 2022

Pitt track and field’s Felix Wolter is relentless at everything. From academics to athletics, he is pursuing excellence and hopes that his hard work eventually pays off with a trip to the 2024 Olympics.

Pitt lacrosse starts inaugural season with overtime thriller, takes down Duquesne 9-8

By Richie Smiechowski, Senior Staff Writer • February 11, 2022

Despite the magnitude and spectacle surrounding the team’s first contest, the Panthers (1-0, 0-0 ACC) managed to knock off their Pittsburgh foe, the Duquesne Dukes (0-1, 0-0 Atlantic Ten) in a thrilling 9-8 overtime battle.

Pitt women’s lacrosse makes last preparations for first game

By Richie Smiechowski, Senior Staff Writer • February 8, 2022

Energy was high among the players and coaches, despite the cold temperatures. Boissonneault said it’s been a challenging journey getting to this point, but after 2 1/2 years of waiting, they’re just ready to play and find out what level they can compete at.

‘Excited to compete’: Transfer Julianna Dalton looks to help Pitt volleyball sustain success

By Richie Smiechowski, Senior Staff Writer • January 25, 2022

The team announced Jan. 6 that sophomore outside hitter Julianna Dalton officially completed her transfer to Pitt from Washington State, marking the first acquisition of the 2022 offseason.

Swimming and diving international athletes embrace challenges of competing in America

By Richie Smiechowski, Staff Writer • January 18, 2022

Swimming and diving head coach John Hargis and the rest of his coaching staff haven’t hesitated to pursue international talent. Between the men’s and women’s teams, the rosters combine to have 13 international athletes from nine different countries — a significantly higher number than some other top programs across the country.