Feb. 10, 2010

Former Boston Globe columnist, ESPN Around the Horn panelist and acclaimed author, Jackie MacMullan came to visit the UMass Lowell River Hawks basketball practice on Monday, Feb. 8. She spoke to the student-athletes about strength of character, her experiences working with legendary NBA personalities and the importance of hard work.

“Having Jackie speak to our team was great. She is so in tune with today’s athletes,” head coach Greg Herenda said. “Our guys have seen her on TV, but in person, she was even more impressive.”

MacMullan, a graduate of the University of New Hampshire, spoke about her transformation from a walk-on to a scholarship athlete for the Wildcats, as well as her vast professional experiences in the world of sports.

“This year, we have had Ray Allen from the Celtics, former Ohio State and Boston College coach Jimmy O’Brien, as well as Steve Clifford, the Orlando Magic Assistant Coach, speak to our guys,” Herenda said. “This is part of the educational process and it is a huge benefit to our team and program.”