Rye's Brinkman to Play Girls' Lacrosse at Bates

RYE, N.Y. - Emma Brinkman had narrowed her college choices to the final five - Bates, Lafayette, Gettysburg, Union and Trinity. However, the moment Brinkman arrived at Bates, she made her decision.

“I just fell in love with Bates as soon as I stepped on campus,” said the Rye senior.

Brinkman, who helped lead the Rye girls’ lacrosse team to the Section 1 Class C championship and a berth in the state final four, will attend Bates, in Lewiston, Me., in September and play lacrosse.

“I wanted to go to a smaller school, ideally, and Division III athletics, especially in the NESCAC, appealed to me, because I strive to be well-rounded in school,” said Brinkman, who led Rye in goals. “It is also exactly what I pictured in a college campus.”

Many Rye student-athletes have experienced academic and athletic success in the NESCAC - New England Small College Athletic Conference. In fact, two of Brinkman’s lacrosse teammates will be attending NESCAC schools. Maddie Kinkler will play lacrosse at Middlebury and Annie Van Wagenen will play field hockey at Williams.

Brinkman, who is planning to major in Art History, was also impressed with her new coach - Brett Allen, who completed his seventh year. “I can see that he cares a lot about his players,” said Bates, also a field hockey standout for Rye. “After he saw my video and spoke to me, I got a good feeling.”

Brinkman is eagerly awaiting the next academic chapter in her life and knows she made the right decision. “I am excited about going to Bates,” Brinkman said. “I know my expectations are going to be fulfilled as a student and athlete.”

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