Menlo College Addresses Allegations in Athletics Program Posted on May 7, 2026May 7, 2026 by George Retelas Menlo College has completed a thorough investigation into allegations of racist language within our athletics program. Where violations of our community standards were substantiated, appropriate disciplinary action was taken, in accordance with Menlo’s policies. The College takes these allegations seriously. Racist language, discrimination, and disrespect have no place at Menlo College. Menlo’s community should be a space where every member feels safe, valued, and respected regardless of race, ethnicity, or background. Due to federal and state student privacy protections, we cannot publicly discuss specific disciplinary outcomes for student misconduct. What we can confirm is that our investigation process was clear, impartial, and the outcomes were consistent with institutional policies. We remain committed to supporting affected students through counseling and resources, and to fostering a culture of accountability and inclusion. If you have concerns or wish to report an incident, please contact: Devin Carr, Assistant Vice President and Dean of Student Affairs, devin.carr@menlo.edu, 650.543.3779
Menlo College Taekwondo Caps Historic 2025–2026 Season with National, International Success Posted on April 23, 2026April 23, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College Taekwondo completed a landmark 2025–2026 season defined by rapid growth, national team selections, international competition, and a series of podium finishes that firmly established the program among the nation’s elite. From its earliest competitions in fall 2025 through a breakthrough spring 2026, the Oaks demonstrated a consistent ability to compete at the highest levels of collegiate and international taekwondo. Though still in its early stages as a program, Menlo Taekwondo has built a reputation for developing high-performance athletes while fostering a culture rooted in discipline, resilience, and global ambition. Menlo College 2025-2026 Taekwondo Competition Team. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished as a team in our first year. We’re building something special, and this is just the beginning. This season was about more than results. It was about building a culture, proving we belong on the national and international stage, and setting the standard for what Menlo College Taekwondo will become.” – TJ Curry, Head Coach A Strong Start on the National Stage The season opened with immediate impact at the 2025 U.S. Season Final & Sport Festival, where freshmen Christina Chavez and Jaslyn Yu-Hian set the tone for the year ahead. Chavez delivered a dominant run to capture gold in the bantamweight division, defeating higher-seeded opponents in each round, while Yu-Hian secured bronze in her national-level debut. Canadian students Jacob Boodoo and Sophia Flokas competed and took gold at the Taekwondo Ontario Provincial Championships. Their performances signaled the arrival of a new program ready to contend. All four athletes showcased composure and technical precision, laying the foundation for a season that would quickly expand beyond domestic competition. Sophia Fokas competing at the PacWest Regional at Stanford University on February 21, 2026. Gaining Ground Internationally Menlo Taekwondo wasted no time stepping onto the global stage. At the 2025 Muju World Taekwondo Grand Prix in South Korea, athletes Sarah Grabot, Kylie Lewis, and Nicholas Carlo competed against Olympic medalists and world champions. While podium finishes proved elusive at this early stage, the experience proved invaluable. Carlo secured a first-round victory, while Lewis and Grabot gained exposure against elite international competition. The event served as a benchmark, reinforcing the program’s long-term potential and readiness to compete globally. Lewis continued to build on that experience as a member of the U.S. National Team, competing at the World Taekwondo Championships in Wuxi, China from October 24–30. Facing top international talent, the event provided critical high-level experience that has fueled her current run of success on the international stage. Nicholas Carlo competing at the Grand Prix Challenge in Muju, South Korea on August 30, 2025. That global presence continued throughout the fall semester, with Menlo athletes competing across five countries and multiple elite events. The team’s growing confidence quickly translated into results, including: Gold medals at the USA Taekwondo Grand Prix Final Strong performances at the Taekwondo Ontario Provincial Championships A deep run by Kylie Lewis at the World Taekwondo U21 Championships in Nairobi Building a Championship-Caliber Foundation A critical component of Menlo’s success this season has been its investment in elite coaching. Assistant coaches Jae Sung Lee and Julia Vasconcelos dos Santos Penfield brought world-class experience to the program. Lee was the previous Qatar National Team coach. As an athlete, he was on the Korean National team and was also a member of the Samsung Pro Team. He brings over two decades of international competition and coaching experience in high-pressure environments. Meanwhile, Penfield, a former Brazilian National and Olympic Team member, added technical expertise and performance training insight. Together, the coaching staff has helped shape a program identity focused on high-level preparation, international standards, and athlete development. Breakthrough at U.S. Team Trials The spring semester marked a turning point for the program, highlighted by a historic performance at the U.S. Team Trials in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Nicholas Carlo, Kaitlyn Marie Reclusado, and Kylie Lewis each earned gold medals in their respective divisions, qualifying for the U.S. National Team. Their achievements positioned Menlo College among a select group of programs producing national team athletes and underscored the rapid rise of the Oaks on the national stage. Carlo dominated the +87kg division with a series of decisive victories Reclusado delivered a standout freestyle poomsae performance to secure gold Lewis defeated multiple national champions to win the -73kg bracket Kylie Lewis competing at the U-21 World Championships in Nairobi, Kenya on December 4, 2025. Continued Success at State and Collegiate Events Momentum carried into April as Menlo athletes delivered another standout performance at the NCTA Team Trials and the USA Taekwondo California State Championships in Fresno. Nicholas Carlo and Kaitlyn Reclusado each added to their remarkable seasons with gold medal performances at the Team Trials, earning spots on the Collegiate National Team and the opportunity to represent Team USA at the FISU Pan American Championships in July. Shayler Guymon and Sam Aloubeady each secured a bronze medal in a highly competitive bracket. Carlo and Reclusado continued their dominance at the state championships, each capturing gold to cap off an impressive weekend for the Oaks. Continued International Success and Individual Excellence Menlo’s momentum extended beyond domestic competition with standout performances at two of the sport’s premier international events, the U.S. Open and the Canada Open. Kylie Lewis and Nicholas Carlo each earned bronze medals at the Canada Open, with Lewis adding a silver medal to her impressive international resume. Their performances reinforced Menlo’s growing presence on the global stage and ability to consistently reach the podium against elite international competition. Kaitlyn Reclusado continued what has been one of the most dominant individual seasons in program history. She captured gold medals at both the U.S. Open and Canada Open, extending an undefeated run that has defined her year. Kylie Lewis also walked away with a silver medal, adding more to her list of achievements. Kaitlyn Reclusado winning first place at the PacWest Regional at Stanford University on February 21, 2026. Reclusado’s remarkable season included gold medal performances at every event she entered, highlighted by a gold medal at the FISU World University Games. She also earned a place on the U.S. National Team and is currently ranked No. 2 in the world, solidifying her position among the top athletes in international taekwondo. Her consistency, composure, and elite execution have not only set a new standard for Menlo College Taekwondo but have also elevated the program’s reputation on the world stage. A Season Defined by Momentum Across every phase of the 2025–2026 season, Menlo College Taekwondo demonstrated a clear trajectory: rapid growth, competitive resilience, and increasing success at the highest levels. What began as a promising new program has quickly evolved into a national contender with international aspirations. Key highlights included: Multiple medalists at national and international competitions Three athletes qualifying for the U.S. National Team Gold medal performances across major domestic events Participation in elite global tournaments against world-class competition Continued investment in coaching, training, and athlete development Head Coach, TJ Curry addressing the Taekwondo team at the 1st Annual Mat Madness at Menlo College on October 17, 2025. Expanding the Program’s Reach Beyond competition, Menlo Taekwondo continued to invest in the future of the sport through initiatives like its Second Annual Elite Summer Training Camp, scheduled for July 2026. The camp is designed to bring together high-level black belt athletes from across the country for intensive training, including technical development, sparring simulations, and strength conditioning. This initiative reflects Menlo’s broader mission to serve as a hub for elite taekwondo development while strengthening its pipeline of future collegiate athletes. Looking Ahead for the New Initiative With a strong foundation now established, Menlo Taekwondo enters the next phase of its development with confidence and momentum. The program’s combination of elite coaching, international exposure, and high-performing student-athletes positions it for continued success in the years ahead. “We’ve shown we can compete at the highest levels, and now the goal is to serve the broader taekwondo community by creating a grassroots sparring and poomse team.” – TJ Curry, Head Coach Jacob Boodoo and Sophia Fokas celebrate with their medals at the Taekwondo Ontario Provincial Championships on October 5, 2025. The program looks to expand with a General Taekwondo Program that serves a non-competition team. This new initiative will allow recruits to participate in Taekwondo while also pursuing their degree at Menlo College. “By creating one of the first collegiate pathways in the nation for taekwondo, we’re expanding access for students to pursue the sport at any level while earning their bachelor’s degree here at Menlo College.” – Keith Spataro, Vice President for Athletics As the Oaks look toward the 2026–2027 season, one thing is clear: Menlo College Taekwondo is no longer emerging; it has arrived. About Menlo College Menlo College is a private, non-profit institution offering four-year undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located in Atherton, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo integrates academic excellence with leadership development and competitive athletics. Known for its strong business and psychology programs, Menlo prepares students to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose. Menlo College Athletics sponsors 14 intercollegiate sports and competes at the NCAA Division II level, with women’s flag football set to become the College’s 15th varsity program in 2026–2027. For media inquiries, please contact: Athletics CommunicationsMenlo Collegeathletics@menlo.edu
Menlo College Wrestling Caps Historic Championship Weekend with National Title and Record Performances Posted on April 3, 2026April 3, 2026 by George Retelas Menlo College wrestling delivered a championship performance for the record books this weekend in Louisiana, as the Oaks once again proved themselves among the elite programs in collegiate wrestling. Kanaipono Tapia attempts to score on his opponent. The Menlo men’s wrestling team captured the national championship in dominant fashion, finishing nearly 40 points ahead of the runner-up. The Oaks controlled the tournament from start to finish, securing individual titles in more than half of the contested weight classes and showcasing the depth that has become a hallmark of the program. All-American Michael Torres celebrates after winning the 141 pound national title. The victory marks Menlo’s fifth national title since 2019, underscoring a sustained era of excellence across both the men’s and women’s programs. Adding to the historic weekend, Menlo’s newly launched NCWA women’s team made an immediate impact in its first-ever national championship appearance. The Oaks earned a second-place team finish and celebrated an individual national champion, signaling a strong future for the program. Menlo athletes dominated the podium throughout the tournament, with seven national champions crowned. On the men’s side, Javier Martinez, Diego Morales, Isaiah Morales, Tyger Taam, Kanaipono Tapia, and Michael Torres each claimed titles. Neila Fritts led the way for the women, capturing a national championship in her division. Tapia’s standout performance earned him Male Outstanding Wrestler honors, highlighting an exceptional tournament run. All-American Maya Barrios gets her hand raised after taking 7th Place. Nela “Atlas” Fritts hugs NCWA Associate Head Women’s Coach Julissa Taitano. In total, 21 Oaks earned All-American recognition: Jeramiah Steele, Michael Torres, Tyger Taam, Ezekiel Lara, Kanaipono Tapia, Isaiah Morales, Mathias Collins, Diego Morales, Javier Martinez, Daniel Arellano, David Arroyo, Maya Barrios, Matthew Porras Diamond, Neila Fritts, Leia Hernandez, Siomara Hernandez, Lastevia Muir, Lina Perez, Giancarlo Plaza, Gwendolyn Tomkins, and Kayla Zeidler. Behind the success is a coaching staff that continues to set the standard nationally. NCAA Men’s Wrestling Head Coach Joey Martinez was named Coach of the Year, while Director of NCWA Wrestling Cristian Vasquez and Associate Head Coach of NCWA Women’s Wrestling Julissa Taitano played key roles in guiding both programs to national prominence. NCWA Women’s Wrestling Awarded National Runner-Up Trophy. The championship culture at Menlo is also supported by the leadership of Vice President and Director of Athletics Keith Spataro, whose vision and commitment to student-athlete success continue to drive the Oaks’ rise on the national stage. With another championship secured and a new program already making history, Menlo College wrestling continues to build a legacy defined by excellence, depth, and sustained success. NCAA Men (6 Individual National Champions, 9 All-Americans in 10 Weight Classes, National Team Champions) 133: Jeramiah Steele | 5th Place, All-American 141: Michael Torres | NCWA National Champion 141lbs, All-American 149: Tyger Taam | NCWA National Champion 149lbs, All-American 157: Ezekiel Lara | NCWA National Runner-Up, All-American 165: Kanaipono Tapia | NCWA National Champion, All-American 174: Isaiah Morales | NCWA National Champion, All-American 184: Mathias Collins | 3rd Place, All-American 197: Diego Morales | NCWA National Champion, All-American 295: Javier Martinez | NCWA National Champion, All-American NCWA Men (4 All-Americans) 125: Daniel Arellano | 5th Place, All-American 133: Giancarlo Plaza | 6th Place, All American 149: David Arroyo | 4th Place, All-American 184: Matthew Porras Diamond | 5th Place, All American NCWA Women (1 Individual National Champion, 8 All-Americans in 11 Weight Classes, 2nd Place as a Team) 110: Lina Perez | 6th Place, All American 117: Maya Barrios | 7th Place, All American 131: Lastevia Muir | 5th Place, All-American 138: Gwendolyn Tomkins | | 5th Place, All-American 145: Kayla Zeidler| 6th Place, All-American 160: Leia Hernandez | NCWA National Runner Up, All-American 207: Siomara Hernandez | 6th Place, All-American 240: Neila Fritts | NCWA National Champion, All-American, First Ever Champion in Program History About Menlo CollegeMenlo College is a private, non-profit institution offering four-year undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located in Atherton, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo integrates academic excellence with leadership development and competitive athletics. Known for its strong business and psychology programs, Menlo prepares students to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose. Menlo College Athletics sponsors 14 intercollegiate sports and competes at the NCAA Division II level, with women’s flag football set to become the College’s 15th varsity program in 2026–2027.For media inquiries, please contact: Athletics CommunicationsMenlo Collegeathletics@menlo.edu
Menlo Wrestling Alum Rysan Leong Wins Professional MMA Debut, Expands Impact Through Coaching in Hawaiʻi Posted on March 30, 2026March 30, 2026 by George Retelas ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Rysan Leong ’24 won his professional MMA debut by unanimous decision on March 22 at Anthony Pettis Fighting Championships 22. Facing previously undefeated Khetag Moroav in a lightweight bout, Leong delivered a composed performance across three rounds, controlling key moments to secure the judges’ decision and hand Moroav his first loss. Known for his finishing ability and a 5-0 amateur record, the 2023 NAIA National Champion showed a new dimension by going the distance for the first time. Rysan Leong ’24 wins his professional MMA debut on March 22, 2026. The victory adds to an already accomplished résumé as the Hawaiʻi-born and -raised athlete continues his transition from national champion wrestler to professional MMA fighter. Leong’s path reflects Menlo College’s emphasis on hands-on learning, where students apply classroom experience to real-world opportunities that can evolve into careers and community impact. While at Menlo College, Leong launched Hawaii Intensive Wrestling Camps (HIWC) as part of his Sports Management internship. What began as a project to explore careers within his Sports Management major has grown into a program that provides high-level wrestling training within Hawaiʻi, eliminating the need for athletes to travel to the mainland for elite instruction. Rysan Leong teaching the next generation of wrestlers at the Hawaii Intensive Wrestling Camps (HIWC). Each summer, HIWC hosts clinics and an overnight intensive camp at Kamehameha Schools Kapālama. Athletes train in a structured environment focused on skill development, discipline, and resilience. The program has quickly become a key part of Hawaiʻi’s wrestling community. Leong’s motivation comes from personal experience growing up in Hawaiʻi, where travel costs often limited access to exposure and training opportunities. “Back then, my family had to start a GoFundMe just to get me to camp,” Leong said. “When I returned, I knew we needed something like this in Hawaiʻi. We have the talent right here, so why send our kids across the ocean when we can build it ourselves with Hawaiʻi-grown wrestlers that have competed at the collegiate level?” That idea became reality during the COVID-19 pandemic when Leong created HIWC as his internship project. Today, the camp brings together top Hawaiʻi athletes and collegiate wrestlers from across the country to train and mentor the next generation. At Menlo College, students are encouraged to build, test, and launch ideas before they graduate. Through both his professional career and his work with HIWC, Leong continues to represent Menlo College while helping shape the future of wrestling in Hawaiʻi. Learn more about Hawaii Intensive Wrestling Camps: https://hawaiiwrestlingcamps.com/ About Menlo Menlo College is a private, non-profit institution offering four-year undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located in Atherton, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo integrates academic excellence with leadership development and competitive athletics. Known for its strong business and psychology programs, Menlo prepares students to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose. Contact pr@menlo.edu
Menlo College to Add Women’s Flag Football as 15th Varsity Sport Head Coach Search to Begin Immediately; Team to Launch in 2026–2027 Academic Year Posted on March 5, 2026March 5, 2026 by George Retelas Atherton, Calif. — Menlo College Athletics announced today the addition of Women’s Flag Football as the College’s 15th varsity sport. The program will begin competition during the 2026–2027 academic year, with a national search for a Head Women’s Flag Football Coach launching immediately. Women’s flag football has been designated by the NCAA as an Emerging Sport, reflecting its rapid national growth and increasing adoption by colleges nationwide. Participation across California and the Western United States has expanded significantly in recent years, aligning closely with Menlo College’s primary recruiting regions. According to the California Interscholastic Federation, nearly 20,000 girls participated in CIF-sanctioned high school flag football statewide last season — an 84 percent increase year over year. The College will begin recruiting immediately to build a full roster for the inaugural 2026–2027 season. Given the sport’s rapid regional growth, Menlo’s 2026–2027 launch positions the College among the early NCAA Division II adopters in the West. “This is a strategic and mission-aligned step for Menlo College,” said Keith Spataro, Vice President for Athletics. “Women’s flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, especially in California and Hawaii, two of our strongest recruiting regions. The timing is right, the regional interest is strong, and the opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up is incredibly exciting.” Spataro emphasized that the addition reflects both institutional vision and long-term program sustainability. “Women’s flag football expands competitive opportunities for women while strengthening our overall Athletics portfolio,” Spataro added. “We believe this sport will attract driven, high-character student-athletes who want to compete at a high level while pursuing academic excellence. We are committed to building a program that reflects Menlo’s values from day one.” The Head Women’s Flag Football Coach will be hired this spring to lead recruiting efforts, develop program infrastructure, and prepare for the inaugural season. The program will compete as a varsity NCAA Division II sport. Menlo College President Steven Weiner expressed enthusiasm for the addition and its alignment with the College’s broader strategic direction. “Women’s flag football represents both innovation and opportunity,” said President Weiner. “As an institution committed to growth, access, and student engagement, we are proud to expand our athletic offerings in a way that responds to emerging national trends while serving the interests of our students. This addition strengthens our commitment to providing meaningful leadership and competitive opportunities for women.” More information regarding the Head Coach search and recruiting process will be available at menloathletics.com. About Menlo CollegeMenlo College is a private, non-profit institution offering four-year undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located in Atherton, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo integrates academic excellence with leadership development and competitive athletics. Known for its strong business and psychology programs, Menlo prepares students to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose. Menlo College Athletics sponsors 14 intercollegiate sports and competes at the NCAA Division II level, with women’s flag football set to become the College’s 15th varsity program in 2026–2027.For media inquiries, please contact: Athletics CommunicationsMenlo Collegeathletics@menlo.edu
Menlo College Launches Non-NCAA Baseball Program Posted on May 7, 2025May 30, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – May 7, 2025 – Menlo College is thrilled to announce the launch of its new non-NCAA baseball program, set to compete in the National Club Baseball Association (NCBA) Division II Pacific Region, South Conference. This initiative is part of Menlo’s commitment to expanding athletic opportunities and meeting the growing demand for competitive sports among students. The new baseball program will allow student-athletes to compete at a high level while balancing academic pursuits. Athletic scholarships will be available for qualified players, emphasizing Menlo’s dedication to supporting excellence on and off the field. “We’re excited to offer this new opportunity for students who are passionate about baseball,” said Tim Ghormley, Assistant Director of Athletics for Non-NCAA Sports. “Our goal is to build a competitive team that embodies the spirit and determination of Menlo College.” Menlo College has a rich history of athletic achievement, with over 50% of students participating in varsity sports. Adding the baseball program to our non-NCAA department complements recent expansions, which now include men’s and women’s weightlifting, cheer, men’s and women’s wrestling, and men’s and women’s taekwondo. To apply, click the link below or visit the Menlo Athletics website. APPLY NOW Contact: Tim GhormleyAssistant Director of Athletics for Non-NCAA SportsEmail: tim.ghormley@menlo.eduPhone: 650-543-3753 About Menlo College Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
Menlo College Names TJ Curry as Inaugural Director of Taekwondo Posted on April 4, 2025May 30, 2025 by Tess Rewick By: Ally Salzwedel Atherton, CA – April 4, 2025: Menlo College Athletics is proud to announce the hiring of world-renowned taekwondo athlete and coach TJ Curry as the program’s first Director and Head Coach for Taekwondo. A decorated competitor and experienced international coach, Curry brings a wealth of expertise and passion to the Oaks as they launch this historic new program. A World-Class Leader to Build a Historic Program “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome TJ to the Menlo Athletics family,” said Tim Ghormley, Assistant Athletic Director for Non-NCAA Sports. “His elite experience as both an athlete and a coach makes him the perfect leader to establish and build our Taekwondo program. We are confident that under his guidance, Menlo College will become a premier destination for taekwondo athletes looking to compete at the highest levels.” A Legacy of Excellence: Curry’s Competitive & Coaching Achievements Curry’s career as an elite taekwondo competitor spans over a decade, earning him national and international recognition. His achievements include: 2012 Olympic Alternate Multiple appearances on the U.S. National Team Gold Medalist at the U.S. Open, President’s Cup, National Championships, and more! World Cup & Pan American Games team member As a coach, Curry has been instrumental in developing top-tier athletes through his leadership at Precision Taekwondo and as a member of the USA Taekwondo coaching staff. His coaching accomplishments include: Developing multiple national champions and national team members Leading U.S. athletes in major international tournaments, including the World Championships Coaching Olympic-bound athletes through high-performance training camps With Curry at the helm, Menlo College is poised to become a powerhouse in collegiate taekwondo, fostering a program built on skill development, mental toughness, and a winning culture. For more information on Menlo College Athletics and the new Taekwondo program, click HERE. Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
Menlo College to Launch New Developmental Women’s Wrestling Program Posted on January 10, 2025May 30, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College to Launch New Developmental Women’s Wrestling Program Atherton, CA – January, 2025: Menlo College is thrilled to announce the launch of a developmental Women’s Wrestling Program. This program not only expands opportunities for female student-athletes but also enriches the college’s sports culture and contributes to the growth of women’s wrestling in the community. It will provide aspiring wrestlers with top-tier training, competitive opportunities, and academic support, paving the way for success in the sport while earning a world-class education at Menlo College. Wrestling has become one of the fastest-growing high school sports for girls in the United States. According to USA Wrestling, over 30,000 female wrestlers are participating at the high school level nationwide, a dramatic increase from just a decade ago. Despite this growth, opportunities at the collegiate level remain limited, leaving many talented athletes needing pathways to continue their careers. “At Menlo, we are unwavering in our commitment to providing opportunities for student-athletes to continue their competitive careers while pursuing an excellent education,” said Keith Spataro, Vice President for Athletics at Menlo College. “The introduction of a developmental women’s wrestling program bridges the gap for female wrestlers, offering them the resources and support they need to succeed at the next level. We established men’s wrestling as a developmental sport two years ago, and the resounding success of that program has set a strong precedent for this new initiative.” “We’ve seen the immense impact a well-structured developmental program can have,” Spataro added. “Our program will empower female athletes, enhance their competitive edge, and contribute to the long-term stability of the sport in California and beyond. Menlo College, with its unique position, is ready to meet the needs of these student-athletes. By providing a developmental program, we’re not just strengthening women athletes but also playing a significant role in the growth and future of women’s wrestling. Menlo’s new women’s program will compete for national titles alongside our men’s program in the NCWA, and we look forward to the continued success and growth of the sport.” To learn more, please visit: www.menloathletics.com. Contact: Tim GhormleyAssistant Director of Athletics for Club Sports, Intramural and Recreation tim.ghormley@menlo.edu Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College and Menlo Athletics Founded in 1927, Menlo College is a private, nonprofit institution located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Guided by its mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy,” Menlo offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, along with master’s programs in sport and performance psychology and information systems. Athletics features prominently at Menlo, with more than 50% of students participating as varsity athletes, and yet more students engaged in athletics through club, intramural, and recreation sports. In 2024, Menlo College proudly joined the NCAA Division II Pacific West Conference, while select sports, including wrestling and men’s volleyball, will compete in the NCAA Division I Mountain Pacific Sports Federation.
Menlo College Adds Ultimate as New Sport for Men and Women Posted on January 10, 2025May 30, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – January, 2025: Menlo College is excited to announce the addition of Ultimate as a sport for both men and women. This move expands the College’s athletic offerings and continues its commitment to providing diverse student-athlete opportunities. This new initiative reflects Menlo’s forward-thinking approach to collegiate athletics, emphasizing teamwork, leadership, and athleticism in a sport gaining tremendous popularity. Ultimate has seen remarkable growth in the United States, with over 6.5 million participants nationwide, earning its place as one of the fastest-growing team sports in high schools and colleges. By introducing Ultimate, Menlo College is creating exciting new opportunities for students to engage in a sport that prioritizes strategy, sportsmanship, and athleticism, perfectly aligning with the College’s core values. “Ultimate is a sport that embodies teamwork, fair play, and discipline, values at the heart of Menlo College,” said Keith Spataro, Vice President for Athletics. “By introducing Ultimate for men and women, we offer students a chance to participate in a rapidly growing sport with a strong community ethos. This new initiative adds to our commitment to providing a dynamic, well-rounded student experience where academic and athletic success go hand in hand.” The introduction of Ultimate at Menlo also opens the door for regional competition against top-tier schools that sponsor the sport, such as UC Davis, UC Berkeley, UC Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, and Stanford University. Ultimate’s global popularity further supports Menlo’s decision to add the sport. Played by millions worldwide, the International Olympic Committee recognizes it as a sport with a strong international presence. This global appeal provides a compelling opportunity for athletes worldwide to join a team that values inclusivity, excellence, and cultural exchange. “The growth of Ultimate at the collegiate level reflects the increasing demand for dynamic, inclusive team sports,” said Spataro. “As Menlo College continues to enhance its role as a global destination for higher education, adding Ultimate for both men and women presents an exciting opportunity for students to engage in an internationally recognized sport while developing valuable skills that transcend the playing field.” Menlo College’s Ultimate program will begin in the 2025-2026 academic year, and recruitment efforts are already underway. Interested student-athletes are encouraged to contact the College’s Assistant Director of Athletics for Club Sports, Intramural, and Recreation for more details on recruitment, scholarships, and program structure. The College offers a range of scholarships for talented athletes and is committed to supporting students who are passionate about Ultimate and dedicated to their academic and athletic success. To learn more, please visit: www.menloathletics.com. Contact: Tim Ghormley Assistant Director of Athletics for Club Sports, Intramural and Recreation tim.ghormley@menlo.edu Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College and Menlo Athletics Founded in 1927, Menlo College is a private, nonprofit institution located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Guided by its mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy,” Menlo offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, along with master’s programs in sport and performance psychology and information systems. Athletics features prominently at Menlo, with more than 50% of students participating as varsity athletes, and yet more students engaged in athletics through club, intramural, and recreation sports. In 2024, Menlo College proudly joined the NCAA Division II Pacific West Conference, while select sports, including wrestling and men’s volleyball, will compete in the NCAA Division I Mountain Pacific Sports Federation.
Menlo College Announces Addition of Taekwondo as a New Sport Posted on January 7, 2025May 30, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – January, 2025: Menlo College is proud to introduce Men’s and Women’s Taekwondo to its athletics program. The sport provides students with a unique chance to immerse themselves in one of the world’s most esteemed martial arts, and it aligns with Menlo’s commitment to broadening its student-athlete offerings. According to USA Taekwondo, the sport is one of the most popular martial arts in the United States, with over 3.8 million people practicing it nationwide, including over 100,000 high school athletes. By embracing this growing sport, Menlo College positions itself as a forward-thinking institution offering new avenues for student-athletes to excel academically and athletically. “As a college that values academic and athletic excellence, Menlo College is excited to introduce the sport of Taekwondo,” said Keith Spataro, Vice President for Athletics at Menlo College. “The discipline, perseverance, and respect inherent in Taekwondo align perfectly with our core values and our current athletic programs. We are confident this sport will bring a new and exciting dimension to Menlo athletics.” The Taekwondo program will provide Menlo student-athletes with opportunities to compete in regional tournaments across the Western United States, including conference and non-conference events. These competitions will help student-athletes hone their skills and gain valuable experience in a competitive collegiate environment. Through the National Collegiate Taekwondo Association, Menlo athletes will also have the chance to compete against premier programs that also offer the sport, including those at MIT, UC Berkeley, Stanford, UCLA, the University of Washington, and the University of Texas. Taekwondo’s international reach is another compelling reason for its inclusion in Menlo’s athletics roster. As an Olympic sport practiced in over 200 countries, Taekwondo attracts millions of participants worldwide. Its global appeal aligns with Menlo College’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community, drawing students from around the world and enriching their college experience. “Taekwondo is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life that promotes mental and physical strength, respect, and global citizenship,” added Spataro. “As Menlo continues to strengthen its position as a forward-thinking, inclusive institution, we are excited to offer this unique opportunity to our student-athletes and to add another avenue for students from around the world to pursue their academic and athletic dreams.” Menlo College’s Taekwondo program will begin in the 2025-2026 academic year. Interested student-athletes are encouraged to contact the college’s Assistant Director of Athletics for Club Sports, Intramural and Recreation for more details on recruitment, scholarships, and program structure. To learn more, please visit: www.menloathletics.com. Contact: Tim Ghormley Assistant Director of Athletics for Club Sports, Intramural and Recreation tim.ghormley@menlo.edu Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College and Menlo Athletics Founded in 1927, Menlo College is a private, nonprofit institution located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Guided by its mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy,” Menlo offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, along with master’s programs in sport and performance psychology and information systems. Athletics features prominently at Menlo, with more than 50% of students participating as varsity athletes, and yet more students engaged in athletics through club, intramural, and recreation sports. In 2024, Menlo College proudly joined the NCAA Division II Pacific West Conference, while select sports, including wrestling and men’s volleyball, will compete in the NCAA Division I Mountain Pacific Sports Federation.
