With another year of Hornet athletics coming and going, we've reviewed the best moments of 2015-16 and we're shining a light on them one more time before the 2016-17 year begins.
The final pick? Branden Metzler's run at a singles NCAA Championship right here on campus at Stowe Stadium.
Behind the support of seemingly all students, faculty and staff, Metzler's energetic and dramatic play allowed him to advance to the NCAA final. Coming up just short, his play inspired the campus community and with two more years of eligibility remaining, it won't come as a shock to anyone if he finds himself in a similar situation in the years to come.
NCAA Championship Recap
"Metzler's championship run ends in NCAA final"
KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Looking to become the seventh singles National Champion in Kalamazoo College men's tennis history, Branden Metzler's magical run at the NCAA Division III Championships ended Saturday afternoon in the championship match.
Metzler was defeated by Skyler Butts of Claremont Mudd Scripps 6-2, 6-7 (0-7), 6-2.
Energized by the Hornet faithful throughout the week, Metzler's back was against the wall having lost the first set and trailing late in the second set.
But Metzler didn't go without a fight. After forcing a tiebreak, he won seven straight points sending the match to a definitive third set.
Ultimately, though, the day ended in Butts' favor.
With Metzler's run in the NCAA tournament, he ends the season with an overall singles record of 31-3.
Previous "Best of 2015-16" Picks
"Football wins Wooden Shoes in season finale"
"Arquette wins Lansing Invite"
"Men's Golf finishes top four"
"Women's Soccer downs No. 24 Hope"
"Four All-MIAA honors for Ewing, Lindquist"
"Women's Lacrosse makes MIAA tournament despite loss"
"Late game heroics lift men's soccer on Homecoming"
"Baseball wins MIAA tournament"
"Men's Tennis defeats Adrian, wins MIAA championship"