Latest Fourth Estate Articles

BY CAROLINE FRISBY, STAFF WRITER

Editor’s note: The full transcript of the volunteer firefighter shortage video by Caroline Frisby is provided below. 

At the Public Safety Headquarters in Fairfax County, the Volunteer Fire Commision is facing a shortage of volunteer firefighters, along with other stations nationwide.

Commision Chairman and Fire Chief of Dunn Loring Fire Department Shawn Stokes, explains that in Fairfax, “the minimum level of service, which is very high, is covered by that career staff, so if volunteers don’t show up, that service still gets provided.” 

The fire service in Fairfax County used to be run by all volunteers; however, in 1949, all departments were run by career firefighters, while volunteers served as support. With the extra support, firefighters can provide better service to the community. 

The shortage of people volunteering stem from issues with recruitment and retention.

William Richmond, a volunteer firefighter EMT and the volunteer chief at Annandale Fire

Department, says that good leadership helps the fire department operate effectively, but the fluctuation of volunteers continues to be a roadblock for progress.

“Sometimes it depends on the economy. A lot of it is just personal dynamics…” said Richmond. 

Other people in the fire service believe that volunteers are leaving because the process has 

changed. “When I joined, you could be a firefighter EMT in six months,” Watkins Gray, volunteer firefighter at Franconia Station 5, said. “Now everything takes almost two years.” 

“People have busier lives, so it’s hard to commit that kind of time,” Gray added. 

John Gutsmiedl, a training officer at Centerville Fire Department, says that fire departments are having difficulty retaining young people. “A lot of people get started and then move on as other priorities come up in their life.”

To address recruitment and retention problems, fire departments have created programs to improve their leadership training and how the departments are managed. 

According to Gray, Fairfax County offers a retirement-based program where volunteers can earn a certain monthly stipend for working a certain number of hours. Additionally, the county offers free EMT Training. Richmond suggests increasing awareness of the fire service. 

“You need to tell the community what it is you do. You need to make it clear that if you lose your volunteer department in a very small community, then the response times will not be very good because they’ll have to respond from another town, Richmond said.” 

“It’s a question of what kind of community do you want to live in. You want to have a community where people help each other out,” Richmond said. 

BY CAROLINE FRISBY, STAFF WRITER

Editor’s note: This video was submitted for a class assignment prior to submission to Fourth Estate. The use of the term “GMU News” is not representative of Fourth Estate or any Mason related networks with a similar name.

Caroline Frisby: 12099 Government Center Parkway is home to the Public Safety Headquarters in Fairfax County. Here, the Volunteer Fire Commission faces challenges regarding the shortage of volunteer firefighters across the United States. The chairman of this commission, Shawn Stokes, explains that Fairfax is not like other places where…

Stokes: “…volunteers don’t show up, the fire truck does not go out the door. In Fairfax County, the minimum level of service, which is very high, is covered by that career staff, so if volunteers don’t show up, that service still gets provided.” 

Frisby: The situation in Fairfax is one of a kind. As of 1949, all departments are run by career firefighters, but volunteers are there to support the system. Additional units placed in service allow the fire service to be more robust and better serve the needs of the community. Nevertheless, Fairfax County is still facing challenges. Watkins Gray believes that volunteers are leaving because the training process has changed. When he joined, he became a firefighter EMT within six months.

Gray: “Now the process takes almost two years to do everything, so that’s part of the drawback of joining now. People have busier lives, so it’s hard to commit that kind of time.” 

Frisby: Others, like William Richmond, acknowledge that the flow of volunteers will fluctuate. 

Richmond: “I’m not sure why that is. Sometimes it has to do with the economy. A lot of it is just personal dynamics.” 

Frisby: However, if there is good leadership, fire departments will run strong. That’s why Fairfax County has created programs to improve their leadership training and how the departments are managed. The county also offers financial benefits, such as a retirement-based program and free EMT training for volunteers. Even so, the future of the fire department rests on community involvement. To William Richmond…

Richmond: “It’s a question of what kind of community do you want to live in. You want to have a community where people will help each other out.” 

Frisby: At the end of the day, true heroes do not wear capes. Instead, they can be found at your local fire station, wearing helmets and carrying fire hoses. I’m Caroline Frisby, reporting for GMU News. 

Fourth Estate/Viviana Smith

BY VIVIANA SMITH, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

On Tuesday, Dec. 3, the Instagram account “gmu4palestine” posted a statement addressing “the Interim Suspension of SJP at Mason and Targeting of Student Organizers.”

The statement follows the recent suspension of a formerly registered student organization, Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) at Mason, after a raid occurred in the home of two Mason students identified as leaders of the organization.

According to the statement by “gmu4palestine,” “On Nov. 7, a raid was conducted at the off-campus residence of two SJP student leaders by a large contingent of Fairfax County and GMU police officers. They were told the search was related to property damage incidents at the Fairfax campus.

The next day, on Nov. 8, one of the targeted students received an email notifying them of SJP’s suspension. However, due to the seizure of their electronic devices during the raid, they did not receive the notice until days later.”

On Dec. 4, Fourth Estate requested information from the Fairfax County department relating to the “property damage incidents”; however, in accordance with Va. Code 2.2-3706.1(D), those records are unavailable at this time. 

The 3-page statement, signed by 16 Mason student organizations, addresses the Mason administration directly, claiming the suspension of SJP is an infringement on free speech and student-led activism. “When student organizations like SJP are denied the ability to meet, advertise, or mobilize their peers, the fundamental right to engage in social movements is stripped away,” the statement reads. 

On Nov. 8, one of the two student officers whose home had been raided received an email of the organization’s suspension; however, their electronics were confiscated, preventing both from notifying other members. “Alarmingly, neither the SJP faculty advisor nor other members of the organization were informed of the suspension,” the statement reads. “This lack of transparency and communication undermines the integrity of the process and the students’ rights to be fully informed.”

According to Mason’s RSO and university policies and guidelines, violations of university policies and procedures result in offending student groups entering a “formalized resolution process” through the Student Involvement office or the Office of Student Conduct by referral. 

The resolution process includes, “notification of alleged violations and meeting date, meeting with RSO Lead Team members or a full-time Student Involvement staff member [and] email summarizing meeting and required next steps or referral to the Office of Student Conduct.” The penalty for student organizations found in violation of these guidelines range from a warning to a referral to the Student Conduct office. 

According to the Code of Student Conduct (CSC), “the University, at its discretion, may pursue disciplinary action against a student or student organization while the student or student organization is also subject to criminal proceedings, even if such criminal charges are pending, reduced, or dismissed.” Additionally, the CSC states that a student or student organization will receive conduct correspondence via email. 

The Fourth Estate contacted Mason Student Involvement to inquire if any other group members had received notice but has yet to hear back. 

In addition to the statement made by “gmu4palestine,” the official Instagram account for the Cuesta-McAulay administration released a statement in opposition to the suspension. “We affirm our support of the right to expression and due process as SJP faces unjust, ungrounded interim suspension,” the statement reads. “As elected representatives of the George Mason student body, the Cuesta-Mcaulay administration works to ensure that the diverse voices of our peers are not stifled…”

This is a developing story. Fourth Estate intends to provide updates as the story progresses.

Madalyn Godfrey/Fourth Estate

BY MADALYN GODFREY, COPY EDITOR

I may be suffering from senioritis but I have concluded, over the years of being in school, that cramming for final exams is overrated. Finals are culminations of knowledge you received in your classes throughout the semester. If you are studious and retain the information taught by your classes each week, then by the time you reach your final exam, you should already know the material.

While I believe that not everyone should adhere to these beliefs because granted, some people do need that last-minute cram session, especially if taking a significantly hard class; however, by the end of the semester, you either know or don’t know the material and cramming won’t necessarily change that. Instead, it will only cause you to stress and make you more inclined to pull an all-nighter, which doesn’t really help you.

What does help you in your final exams is taking care of yourself and finding ways to relax after a hard semester. Here are three things you should do to relax before final exams.

1. Sleep

Often overlooked as busy college students, catching up on sleep is necessary. If your body is exhausted, then so is your mind. Additionally, by sleeping, you have a break from all the stresses of school, people or life in general. Sleeping not only supports physical well-being but also emotional and mental well-being. When we are well-rested, we handle stress better, including the stresses that come from final exams.

2. Light reading

Textbooks are boring and can be draining and sometimes the best way to counteract draining texts is by doing light reading of a book you enjoy. It doesn’t matter if the book is one that you have read before or one that you have been putting off. Reading helps you stimulate your mind and focus after being scattered from managing many tasks and assignments for weeks. As a plus, by reading something you enjoy, it can uplift your mood and lead you to facing your final exams more positively.

3. Go out with friends

Socializing is one of the greatest ways to relax and get your mind off of final exams and what better way than by spending time going out with friends. With Washington pretty much in our backyard, there are tons of events and activities to do, whether it is visiting the holiday market, going ice skating or taking time to walk down the National Mall. Additionally, if your friends are in school with you, you all can bond over the hardships of the semester while looking forward to the break. By being with those in your support systems, it can remind you of the bigger things in life than an exam and give you a boosted sense of morale to finish out your last part of the semester.

While final exams induce the need to cram, by choosing to sleep, do light reading and going out with friends, we can de-stress and go into your final exams with a clear mind, helping us to pass and finish out our classes strong.

Saahiti Kiran Chamala/ Fourth Estate

BY SAAHITI KIRAN CHAMALA, CULTURE EDITOR

We’re college students, of course we love our late-night boba runs! 

You might have seen promotions of this boba chain in collaboration with “The King: The Eternal Monarch,” or noticed it buzzing on your way to campus. 

Well, the wait is over– The Alley, a popular Taiwanese boba chain, has finally opened its first location in the DMV! Located conveniently on Main Street in Fairfax, it’s just a quick 5-minute commute for students living on campus. The shop features a minimalist design with accents of black and white that create a clean, modern aesthetic.

“My first impression when I walked into The Alley was that there isn’t much color to the place, and it’s just very white and bright,” Aviroop Kaur Dhaliwal, a junior at Mason, said. “Most boba places have some type of theme or fun colors to go along with it, so this was a new experience for me.”

Open until 11:30 p.m. on weekdays and 1.a.m on the weekends, it’s perfect for those looking for a late-night boba fix or just a chill hangout spot with friends. “As an avid bubble tea drinker, I was surprised to find out that a new boba place opened up so close to campus with such late hours,” Dhaliwal commented.

The Alley’s menu has familiar options to regular boba-enthusiasts; however, one drink stands out: the Ube Brown Sugar Deerioca Creme Brulee Milk Tea.

“This drink was so unique! It’s rich, creamy and the perfect balance of sweetness with the ube flavor,” Mason junior Sthuthi Chakravarthy said. “I’ve never tasted anything quite like it before at a boba shop.”

Aside from this unique drink, most of the menu items are similar to other popular boba spots around campus. However, the prices at The Alley do lean towards the higher end for a similar portion size.

Overall, The Alley is a refreshing new option for boba lovers in the area. If you’re looking to mix things up and try something a little different, this spot could definitely be on your list. It’s the perfect place to switch up your usual boba routine and explore some new flavors, making it a must-try destination for those late-night cravings.

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

BY KEVIN BINAJ, SPORTS EDITOR

As the leaves turned and the excitement of fall took over campus, Mason’s student-athletes hit the fields and courts with determination and grit. From the soccer pitch to the volleyball court, Patriot fans were witnesses to a thrilling sports season. 

Men’s Soccer

The men’s soccer team had a historic season, finishing with a record of 13-4-1 (6-1-1 in conference play) and securing a spot in the Atlantic 10 Tournament semifinals. This was their best season in over a decade, marked by strong team chemistry and dominant performances on both ends of the pitch. Their offensive spark came from standout graduate student forward Marek Gonda, who netted 8 goals and added 3 assists. Collectively, the team filled out the stat sheets scoring 36 goals, with 17 players registering at least a goal or an assist throughout the season. With most of their core players returning, the men’s soccer team looks poised to build on this season’s success and aim for a deeper postseason run in 2025.

Women’s Soccer

The women’s soccer team faced a tough fall 2024 campaign, finishing with a 3-10-6 record (1-5-4 in conference play). Despite the results, the team showed resilience and laid the groundwork for future improvement. Graduate student Katelyn O’Donnell, junior Michi Hooks, sophomore Molly Starner and sophomore Madyson Taylor gave Patriots fans moments of joy with each player netting two goals each throughout the season. While the results were not quite what the team was hoping for, the Patriots gained valuable experience that will be crucial heading into next season. There is no doubt that the team will aim to rebound in 2025. 

Women’s Volleyball 

The women’s volleyball team wrapped up the fall 2024 season with an 11-19 record, going 6-12 in Atlantic 10 play. While the results were mixed, the team showed flashes of potential and improvement under head coach Megan Shifflett Bachmann. The team showed moments of brilliance, particularly with their kills. The team totaled 1420 kills over the season compared to the 1349 kills their opponents managed against them. Senior Olyvia Kennedy led the frontline with 291 kills over the season, while sophomore Camryn Weldon managed an impressive 639 assists. Sophomore Autumn Martinez-Robison excited fans with a whopping 67 aces. With a core of talent returning and several promising recruits joining the program, the Patriots have a strong foundation to build upon for next season.

Cross Country

The Mason cross country teams achieved impressive milestones this season at the NCAA Regionals in Rock Hill, S.C. The women’s team placed 17th, a significant improvement of nine spots compared to last year, showcasing their growth and determination. Meanwhile, the men’s team delivered a standout performance and secured 11th place, a five-spot jump from their 16th place finish in 2023. 

Both teams demonstrated remarkable progress, building momentum for future seasons. With this trajectory, they are well-positioned to aim even higher in 2025.

Patriot Pride on Display

The fall 2024 season was a testament to Mason’s commitment to excellence, teamwork and growth. With individual stars emerging and teams making strides, the Patriots have set the stage for success in the seasons to come.

Madalyn Godfrey/Fourth Estate

BY BRIAN A. HAYUM, STAFF WRITER

Mason Women’s Rugby Club team ended their fall season as champions in the conference tournament. The tournament win, contrasted with their second-place finish just a year ago, was a moment of culmination for a team that has become a tight-knit group of about 16 active players on and off the field. 

Founded in 2008, the Mason Women’s Rugby Club team was made for a purpose far beyond the sport. 

“We have, not only just a community for those interested but also a pathway towards growth… No one who enters the team is the same person after they leave.” President Fabi Rosales said. “Usually, they’re much better, have more confidence…. We’re not going to leave you hanging. We have a place for you.”.

Team Captain Meana Jacobs also spoke about the sense of community she found on the team when she transferred from Loyola University Chicago. Despite being exposed to other sports before discovering rugby, Jacobs mentioned that the physicality and the camaraderie that came with the sport drew her to playing.

Looking toward the spring season, starting the first Monday of the spring semester, the team is ready to make noise as conference champions. “It establishes us as a threat,” Rosales said about what the conference championship means for the upcoming season. 

With increased recognition comes higher expectations, and the proud president emphasized that sentiment.

 “When we started picking the team back up, we were doing it for fun,” Rosales said. “But now, we’re ready to take this team to the next level and we’re ready to be competitive… the conference championship solidified where we want to go from here.” 

While the team grows in membership and stature, a core aspect of the club resides in inclusivity. “We have a place for you…,” Rosales said. “Every person is a rugby player.” 

Rugby here at Mason is filled with competitive and driven women. Since rebuilding the team after the COVID-19 pandemic, this community has grown more with each practice and match.

For anyone interested in joining the club,  you can send an email to the team (masonwomensrugbyclub@gmail.com) or simply show up to practice! Dates can be found on the Mason 360 app or website.

Madalyn Godfrey/Fourth Estate

BY MADALYN GODFREY, COPY EDITOR

With only a few weeks left in 2024, it is that time of year when we say “goodbye” to the old and “hello” to the new. What better way to say “hello” than by making New Year’s resolutions? I am not talking about basic goals such as exercising or reading more, although they are great goals to have. I am talking about goals that allow you to say “hello” to fresh new changes in your life.

Here are three New Year’s resolutions that I recommend having as you enter 2025.

1. Setting boundaries

A new year often calls for a time of wanting to do more things or being more open to putting yourself out there and having more responsibilities. While wanting to do more is fantastic, it is essential to fill your schedule responsibly. When having so much to do and gaining more responsibilities with more people relying on you, pressure builds. Too much pressure can cause burnout and exhaustion as you constantly find yourself being pulled in many directions.

To prevent burnout and exhaustion from happening, make the resolution to set boundaries. Setting boundaries may seem challenging and there might even be people who may feel hurt by your boundaries but don’t let their hurt cause you to hurt yourself. Setting boundaries allows you to take control of your life and prioritize your needs, goals and values while ensuring that the time and energy you give are allocated effectively. It is through setting boundaries that we can give the best versions of ourselves. When we do more and have more responsibilities, set boundaries so you can give the best version of yourself to those responsibilities.

2. Adding fun into your life

With each passing year, it is easy to get caught up in the “grind mindset,” whether putting your all into your academic studies or making your way up the corporate ladder. When caught up in that particular mindset, we lose out on what life can be. By adding fun to your life, you are taking a moment to appreciate the journey that life is and understanding that life means way more than academics and work.

The “grind mindset” can easily cause constant worry about the future and may make you miss out on what is happening in the present. Adding fun to your life is a way to experience the moment you live in, which can impact your future by improving your quality of life.

3. Making yourself happy

The year seems to pass quicker each year. The days might be long but sometimes it feels that as soon as you start to say “happy,” “one” follows right behind. Life is extremely short in the grand scheme of all there is in the entire universe. Because life is so short, it’s important to make yourself happy. There’s nothing selfish in making yourself happy, being happy is fundamental to being able to live a fulfilling and meaningful life.

When you are happy, you navigate challenges more easily, nurture and strengthen your relationships, and add value to yourself and your needs. All this helps you make decisions leading to a life in your best interest. By making yourself happy, you aren’t avoiding responsibilities or challenges; instead, you are creating joy and enhancing each aspect of your life.

By making resolutions to set boundaries, add fun into your life and make yourself happy, I am sure that 2025 will be your year. 

Madalyn Godfrey/Fourth Estate

BY MADALYN GODFREY, COPY EDITOR

Now that Thanksgiving is over, the time has finally arrived when Christmas music can be played anytime. While in years past, it seemed that Christmas music started playing before Halloween–a travesty in itself–I feel that this year has been different. There seems to be a lack of Christmas music despite officially being in December.

Don’t get me wrong. I used to hate Christmas music, especially when it was played before Thanksgiving. Over the years, just like the Grinch, my heart grew and softened quite a bit, becoming a little bit more welcoming to the Christmas spirit; however, now that it is past Thanksgiving, I can’t help but notice where the Christmas music has gone and realize how much the music does help with feeling the Christmas spirit.

If you are like me and notice a lack of music causing a lack of Christmas spirit, here are four songs to get you back into feeling holly and jolly.

1. “Last Christmas” by Wham!

When it comes to Christmas music, you have to have a build-up. You can’t just go straight into Bing Cosby and expect to become immersed in the Christmas spirit immediately. You have to have fun first. You have to dance a little. Let the Christmas spirit enter through 80s synth-pop, specifically through “Last Christmas” by Wham!.

When the Christmas season rolls around, there’s always a tinge of sadness associated but it is also a season filled with hope and moving on and going forward. George Michael encapsulates these elements through the lyrics and the instrumentals of “Last Christmas.” The song allows listeners to recognize the heartbreaks that occur in the Christmas season but gives them the ability to dance anyway, hoping that next year will be better. Once we can recognize the bitter moments and learn to dance anyway, the Christmas spirit begins to infiltrate.

2. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by Michael Bublé

After awakening the mind to dance through the bitterness, the ability to notice the beauty of the Christmas season follows. There’s no better way to see this beauty than by listening to “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.” While technically, any version of the song could work, I believe the Michael Bublé cover is the best.

Known for his polished and classical jazz-blended vocals, Bublé’s voice creates a timeless feeling of nostalgia with a hint of charismatic charm to the song. His voice evokes the beauty of the song and leads listeners to visualize while creating a cozy, festive mood that is sure to allow anyone to feel the Christmas spirit as the Christmas season unfolds.

3. “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” by The Jackson 5

The Christmas season is not only a time for reminiscing and beauty but it is also a time for whimsical playfulness, which The Jackson 5 encapsulates through “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus.” With such a lively tempo channeling child-like wonder, the festive cheers of the Christmas season are heartened. Additionally, through the family appeal of The Jackson 5, their togetherness transcends their artistry into how the Christmas season intertwines with family.

What truly makes the song one to settle anyone into the Christmas spirit is the childlike imagination of the season. Although, as listeners, we know that Santa Claus referred to in the song is supposed to be the dad; however, when we sing along, we match the childhood belief that there is a Santa Claus. Keeping hold of childhood beliefs such as Santa Claus creates the Christmas spirit and only causes the spirit to grow stronger.

4. “All I Want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey

To wrap up the list of Christmas songs, it would be shameful not to throw out one of the most popular songs of the Christmas season, “All I Want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey. Love or hate the song, the Christmas spirit lives deeply within it. As someone who used to be annoyed whenever the song would come on, whether in stores, the radio or even on TV, those feelings all changed when accepting the catchiness of the song and having fun loudly singing it.

The acceptance of the appeal to “All I Want for Christmas is You” and having fun being loud with singing and declaring your enjoyment over the song is what truly allows the Christmas spirit to take you over completely at full force. It is not the song that gets you into the Christmas spirit but rather the acceptance of enjoying the Christmas season and not holding back on the joys of the season.

Photo Courtesy of Gargi Kalla

BY PHILLIP KIM, STAFF WRITER

Mason’s Indian Student Association (ISA) is one of the oldest South Asian student organizations on campus, according to junior Gargi Kalla, ISA vice president. Each year, the organization works tirelessly to hold various events and fellowship opportunities for its members, and 2024 is no exception.

“We organize festivals like Diwali, Holi and many more, each showcasing different traditions with unique dance, music and food,” junior Rohan Mathur, activities manager, said. “ISA gives students a chance to experience India’s many traditions and also connect with the broader campus community.”

Kalla shares that for students of Desi descent living in America, it can be difficult at times to keep in touch with their ethnic roots. ISA hopes to facilitate the sharing of Indian culture by bringing it to campus.

“Our vision has always been to bridge cultural gaps and bring everyone together,” Kalla said. “By hosting inclusive and diverse events, we not only give our members a chance to reconnect with their culture and heritage but also introduce the greater Mason community to the beauty of our South Asian traditions.”

Photo Courtesy of Gargi Kalla

ISA boasts a welcoming and close-knit membership, making the organization ideal for anyone interested in learning about Indian culture and meeting and bonding with new people.

“Many students have shared that ISA feels more like a family,” senior Sohan Kalluru, events coordinator, said. “This year, ISA is committed to broadening its scope and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong.”

ISA board members shared that the food and music make their events special. From biryani to dosas and samosas with chutney, Indian cuisine is a highlight at most ISA gatherings.

“This semester, ISA hosted a successful fundraising event: Dosa Dhaba,” junior Harshitha Maddi, fundraising chair, said. “This event was a collaboration with GMU Culinary Club, making it not only ISA’s first-ever food-based fundraiser but also our first event centered on authentic, home-style South Indian cuisine.”

Earlier this semester, ISA hosted one of their key events, Diwali celebration, off-campus to connect with an even larger community. They even chose a special venue that would evoke memories for homesick members: a local temple.

“This event was an incredible success, complete with authentic Indian food and dazzling fireworks, allowing students to honor the Festival of Lights in grand style,” junior Vidhi Pathak, ISA delegate, said. “Attendees walked away from the event with wide smiles and remarked on how lighting all the fireworks, they felt like they were back at home in the streets of India.”

In addition to holding traditional celebrations, the officers enjoy getting creative and coming up with unique events such as the “Desi Halloween Party.”

“[The Halloween party] was a night full of surprises and fun moments,” sophomore Nia Trivedi, historian, said. “Students showed off their creativity with costumes ranging from iconic Bollywood stars to mythological figures, all while dancing to the latest hits and taking part in a lively costume contest.”

The South Asia edition of International Cafe held in October was another special experience for ISA members. They planned to host their own event that same week but changed gears upon being invited to present a booth at the event.

“We had an amazing time meeting people from diverse backgrounds and sharing stories about India’s rich history and stunning monuments,” Kalla said. “Despite the last minute decision to participate, all the effort was absolutely worth it.”

None of these events would be possible without careful preparation by dedicated members. Senior Ishaan Gupta, treasurer, feels like everyone brought their “A-game” to all the meetings.

“There are lots of things that go on behind-the-scenes months in advance for all of our major events,” Gupta said “When we face major problems in organizing events, we like to meet up and brainstorm, sometimes spanning multiple hours, until we find a solution. We want to make sure that every detail is perfect so our guests have an unforgettable experience.”

After a year marked by laughter and bonding, ISA plans on growing as an organization and continuing to support South Asian students going through college. Senior Dheer Tammina, ISA president, believes more can be done to achieve these goals.

“We decided to take bold risks,” Tammina said. “Many of these events were unprecedented for ISA, particularly at the scale we executed them. While the process was stressful at times, our efforts paid off as each event turned out to be extremely successful.”

“When joining ISA, embrace the journey of planning, learning, and growing together,” junior Sanjita Illendula, marketing head, said. “We often encounter surprises but that’s what makes our experiences unforgettable. Together, we’ll tackle challenges, adapt and create moments that celebrate our culture and bring our community closer. Expect the unexpected and let’s make it amazing!”

ISA currently has 926 members on Mason 360 with many more unofficial members. Students who are interested in learning more about ISA may visit their official Instagram account.

Photo Courtesy of Jackson Daughters

BY CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

Editor’s note: Some players will be referred to by their gamertag.

Eric “Trile & Error” Le serves as the Super Smash Bros. manager for George Mason University Esports; however, when coming to Mason in 2021, Le didn’t want to be involved with anything. Three years later, Le’s attitude changed when he deeply considered joining the team, asking himself, “It can’t be that bad, right?

In the fall of 2024, Le became the Super Smash Bros. manager for Mason Esports. Now, Le decides which players make the team.

Trying out for the Super Smash Bros. team can be different from other Esport tryouts at Mason by putting players against three “testers”. These “testers” are people that are skilled Super Smash Bros. players, who play against prospective players to test their skills. 

“For example, one of my players, ‘Ripcord,’ [a] really good R.O.B. player.. plays a meta-relevant character,” Le said. “He was analyzing, how do [prospective team members] approach a meta-relevant character? How would they approach him as a player? And will they adapt fast enough?”

The three “testers” relay information and their opinion of the prospective players skills to Le, who then decides where to place the player on a team. If the player does really well, they’re part of the main team. If the player isn’t main-team material, they still have a shot of being placed on the B team.

When it comes to tournaments, Le says that his team brings the heat.

Le recalled a major tournament in Ohio during the fall semester. “Our team got top eight out of 32 schools, upsetting one of the bigger schools there…” Le said. At another tournament, the team went to Virginia Tech and won the tournament. 

Being the Smash Bros. manager has allowed Le to get connected in the GMU Esports community. “You can talk with the CSGO folks, the Valorant folks, the Rocket League folks. they’re all good people,” Le said. “They all want to just play games, just [with] different games.”

Le’s favorite hobby besides video games is biking. “I love trail making, basically I love to explore my whole area,” Le said. 

As Le continues to grow as a manager, he advises other players and future leaders of Esports teams to remain hard workers in the midst of all the fun. “Just understand, do your work first. Play hard. Work hard,” Le said.

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

BY CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

On Nov. 13, Mason men’s soccer season came to an end in the Atlantic 10 semifinals with a 2-1 defeat against Saint Louis. The Patriots’ season officially ended on Nov. 18, when they were not included in the NCAA Tournament field.

In the first half, Mason and Saint Louis were balanced. During Mason’s possessions, Saint Louis applied pressure on the ball causing Mason to turn the ball over. 

In the 32nd minute, Saint Louis midfielder Drake Fournier found forward Matthew Wrobel inside the box. Wrobel kicked the ball into the bottom right corner to go up 1-0.

In the 41st minute, Saint Louis forward Luis Lara took a free kick from the left side of the field, finding Max Floriani inside the box. Floriani used his head to hit the ball into the upper left corner, putting the Billikens up 2-0.

In the second half, Mason came out more aggressive. Mason passed the ball from the left side of the field, to the middle and the right side of the field, trying to find any chance to score. 

In the 65th minute, Mason midfielder Henry Wachsman, on the right side of the field, crossed the ball inside the box to find Mason forward Marek Gonda. Gonda hit the ball with his head, putting the ball into the corner. The referee called the goal off due to a foul.

In the 70th minute, a penalty was given to Mason as Wachsman got fouled inside the box. Mason defender Javi Sanchez took the penalty and kicked the ball to the bottom left corner, making the score 2-1. This would be the last goal of the game.

Mason took 15 shots with six on target. Saint Louis took four shots with two on target. Mason was called offsides three times, while Saint Louis was called off once. 

Mason dominated the game in possession, with 66%. The Patriots failed to capitalize on their domination and possession, allowing the Billikens to secure a berth in the A-10 championship.

Despite the loss, George Mason Stadium had an intense atmosphere throughout the game. The Patriots won 13 games throughout the season with head coach Rich Costanzo winning Coach of the Year in the A-10.

Saint Louis went on to lose to Dayton in the final round of the A-10 tournament.

Austin Diaz/Fourth Estate

BY AUSTIN DIAZ, STAFF WRITER

For many years, Mason has remained a campus full of life. There’s the hustle and bustle of people going to and from campus along with others spending their time out in the green areas that Mason provides. In fact, the university plays a leading role in addressing sustainability challenges; however, I believe that the influx of more students leads to more pollution on campus.   

When looking at the campus from my freshman year of 2022, I don’t recall this much pollution on campus. There were relatively full trash cans with little trash surrounding them around campus. I could say that there was no problem with pollution and littering in my first two years at Mason. But things have changed during this semester.   

At the start of the school year, I noticed there seemed to be more litter on the ground as I was walking around campus. But as the semester continued, I realized that this might be a greater issue than I first thought. 

My walks to class are filled with litter. Pollution seems to be intertwined with the campus as the days continue. But how does this relate to the influx of people on campus?   

The pollution issue may have a correlation with the recent class of 2028 being the biggest in Mason’s history. The increase of the on-campus population also increases the use of resources at Mason, potentially causing more students to leave empty wrappers or bottles on the ground as they rush to their next class.

What used to be less busy shops and restaurants around campus are now jam-packed throughout the day with long lines, which in turn means more people getting these food options as a way to eat during the day. More people buying food doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone causes the pollution on campus. But the more people buying food leads to more food in the garbage, showing how more pollution on our campus can arise. The more students on campus daily can make pollution stack up quickly.

Austin Diaz/Fourth Estate

This issue of pollution can be combated and stopped by the university in multiple ways. One way could be by increasing employees with the increase of students. Or the university could offer community service hours to Mason and local high school students to pick up the litter and make areas cleaner. 

Mason could also add a certain cap on the number of students the university accepts each year. These options would allow for a cleaner environment for both the students and the wildlife that we share this university with.  

So when you are walking to class, to your car or even to one of the many restaurants on campus and notice that the trash cans are overflowing or trash is on the ground, think about picking it up so that everyone can experience Mason’s campus and its beauty. 

Gabriel King/Fourth Estate

BY VIVIANA SMITH, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Over the weekend, Mason students took to social media to mourn the loss of the fox that roams the Fairfax campus.

On Sunday, Nov. 17 at 10:47 a.m., Mason Police received a phone call about a fox who had been hit by a car outside of the Rappahannock River Parking Deck. Mason Police notified the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to remove the animal off the premises. Though there have been multiple foxes on campus, many have assumed the dead animal was “Georgina.”

Named “Georgina” from users who have posted sightings of her on the r/gmu subreddit, the news of the fox’s death has spread quickly with many in disbelief. 

In a post on r/gmu, user “QAanonymousse” asked for confirmation of the death, to which another user wrote, “yes he really did die!”

“Noo why did he die,” user “Unhappy_Resource5658” wrote in a post. “I am so sad now he was so inspiring and happy to me everyday I would see him and made me laugh and brought me good vibes!”

Students took to various other social media platforms, such as YikYak, Snapchat and Instagram to pay tribute to the fallen fox. 

The Instagram account “gmufox,” a page dedicated to sharing submitted photos of “Georgina” sightings, has reposted several tribute posts onto their Instagram story from various users. In a post originally shared on Nov. 14, one user commented, “fly high georgina.”

“This fox was really something special on campus, always making talk of the town,” wrote user “RedditsNinja23” in a post. “And it’s really unfortunate that it’s gone.” User “yces_12” responded, “RIP Campus Fox 2024-2024 the mascot we didn’t have, but the mascot we needed.”

The event has given way to a recurring concern on campus: reckless driving. In the same post, one user, “RIPNaranc1a,” mentioned reckless behaviors of some drivers on campus noting their disregard for right of way. Another user, “Unhappy-Second-7893” responded with a story of a near-hit experience while crossing the street.  “Some people are just [reckless],” the user wrote. 

Some on social media mentioned the possibility of a funeral. The Mason community has virtually come together to mourn the loss of a beloved character on the Fairfax campus. 

Photo Courtesy of Barbara Burfeind

BY VALENTINA FALA, STAFF WRITER

Margaretta Walker Dombroski, a 2022 Mason alumna, is the Mid-Atlantic Save Our Streams Coordinator at the Izaak Walton League of America. In her role, she collaborates with local communities to combat water pollution. Volunteers monitor stream restoration projects, provide free water monitoring data to their counties, identify problems in their water streams and request immediate action. These efforts empower volunteers to test any body of water from a pond, stream, lake, puddle or even their own tap water.

Dombroski has always been fascinated by biology and later pursued a minor in environment conservation. During her time at Mason, she spent a semester at the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation’s Conservation, Biodiversity, and Society Program, studied wildlife conservation abroad in Kenya and contributed to urban forestry projects in Fairfax County. “Water pollution is something that affects everybody. A lot of the younger generations are really interested in environmental issues and want to take action, so working with the Mason students is a really good opportunity to try to learn,” Dombroski said.

Dombroski mainly coordinates the Virginia Save Our Streams program, where volunteers collect macroinvertebrates from streams to assess pollution levels. This data is sent to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. Participation in the program is free and requires certification through online webinars, an exam and a field day with a local field trainer. “A lot of our pollution now is non-point pollution, which is coming from all over the watershed,” Dombroski said. “Anything that goes into people’s lawns– like fertilizers, salts on roads and sidewalks, microplastics, pesticides–ends up in our waterways and a lot of these are odorless, tasteless, colorless, and invisible to us.”

Another popular initiative is the Nitrate Watch, which provides free kits to volunteers without requiring training or certification. Results from these kits are included in an online database. Nitrate, a pollutant commonly found in fertilizers and animal waste, can lead to nutrient overloading in water. This overloading causes algae blooms that affect aquatic life. Nitrate can also interfere with the body’s ability to transport oxygen, causing blue baby syndrome and increasing cancer risks. “Both salt and nitrate are really hard, if not impossible, to get out of drinking water. Most drinking water facilities do not filter those out. That’s why it is important to keep track of them,” Dombroski said. 

The Salt Watch program follows a similar process and focuses on chloride pollution from causants like excessive road salt in the winter. Road salt can corrode infrastructures, pipes and cause heavy metals like lead to get into drinkable water and surpass regular water filters. “Obviously road salt is really important–we need it because it helps us stay safe in the winter. But we’re advocating for smarter salting practices and less salt since often much more than is necessary gets applied,” Dombroski said.

The Izaak Walton League of America, the oldest conservation organization in the United States, was founded in 1922. On Nov. 20, they will host a kiosk event in the Johnson Center (JC) from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Students will have the opportunity to meet Dombroski, use water-testing kits and learn more about their special programs. “Our mission is to defend the soil, air, woods, water and wildlife of the U.S. to allow people to enjoy them for years to come,” Dombroski said. 

To learn more about how to get involved or to join water monitoring programs, visit the Izaak Walton League of America’s website.

Emma Schaible/ Fourth Estate

BY EMMA SCHAIBLE, STAFF WRITER

On Nov. 11, University Life at Mason Square, in partnership with Mason Votes and the Schar School of Policy and Government, continued the tradition of hosting “Pizza & Perspectives.” The collaborating organizations provided free pizza and hosted a panel to discuss major news stories happening at a national level. Thepanel topic was the results of the 2024 presidential election, with four panelists exploring key factors that capped critical moments in Virginia and national politics. 

The panel consisted of one moderator and three panelists. “A political scientist by training” and Dean of the Schar School of Policy and Government Mark J. Rozell served as moderator. Within Rozell’s line of questioning to panelists, there was an overarching question on whether the election signified a party realignment. 

The first to respond was associate professor Jennifer Victor. Victor’s expertise comes in analyzing the United States Congress, legislative organization and behavior and more. Currently, Victor also runs the First-Year Democracy Lab, a Schar School learning community. Victor argued that it was still too close to the 2024 election in order to have a confident consensus. “Liberals were Democrats, conservatives were Republicans…that sounds like a normal way to organize politics, but it’s not.” Victor said that the current system in which American politics are organized is unstable.

Former member of the House of Delegates David Ramadan continued this dialogue, speaking on how voters perceived several key issues this election cycle. Ramadan is currently a Professor of Practice in the Schar School. While the economy was one of the biggest issues for many voters this year, he discussed how the United States currently has one of the best economies in history, with the stock market at its highest and unemployment at its lowest. 

Ramadan said that many working-class Americans stepped away from the Democratic Party because they failed to recognize issues that were important to the working class and other subpopulations. 

Professor Victor discussed the pattern of characteristics for winning presidential campaigns as seen for nearly the last 60 years. She said that these patterns have nothing to do with candidates, but circumstances. Included were the characteristics of the approval rating of the sitting party, the growth of gross domestic product (GDP) and length of time the incumbent party has been in office. Overall implying that Vice President Kamala Harris had the cards stacked against her. 

The third panelist, former Gov. of Virginia Terry McAuliffe, commented on the trifecta that has been developing in the federal government, as Republicans were projected to win both houses of Congress. Many political analysts believe that the Republicans winning both houses of Congress and the presidency will be a great test of political efficiency.

The panel was then opened to receiving questions from the audience. Members including undergraduates, graduate students and community members from Arlington asked questions ranging from changes the presidency will make in education to the role of misogyny in American elections. 

The panel closed with each panelist giving their own advice to the audience on where Americans need to go from here. Professor Victor encouraged everyone to read the news and get involved in the community, saying “building community is building democracy… that is the fabric of where democracy really happens.” 

“You’re going to win some. You’re going to lose some. Don’t ever despair. Stay engaged,” McAuliffe said. Ramadan closed out the discussion by asking everyone to call out misinformation and reach across political lines to make friends. 

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

Turnovers and missed free throws cost the Patriots

BY GABRIEL KING, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mason men’s basketball fell to Central Michigan 70-69 on Wednesday at EagleBank Arena. With the loss, the Patriots finished with a 1-2 record in the Marquette Challenge. The Chippewas also finished 1-2, while event host Marquette went undefeated in three games.

After a strong start, the Patriots trailed for most of the second half. A pair of free throws from senior guard K.D. Johnson gave Mason their first lead of the second half with 5:27 remaining in the game. The Patriots extended their lead to four with 31 seconds remaining but costly turnovers led to Central Michigan’s late comeback.

The Patriots committed 15 turnovers and had more turnovers than assists for the third time this season. The Chippewas scored 19 points off Mason’s turnovers, including the game-winner.

“We’re punting the ball at a high level right now,” Head Coach Tony Skinn said. “15 turnovers [tonight], 18 turnovers [against Marquette] and 17 turnovers [against North Carolina Central].” Mason’s 61 turnovers this season are the most of any team in the Atlantic 10.

With the Patriots up by two, senior guard Jared Billups turned the ball over on an inbounds pass with 14 seconds remaining. The turnover led to Central Michigan guard Damarion Bonds’ game-winning 3-pointer with two seconds left.

“I’ve got to take some accountability there,” Skinn said. “I just knew, once he did that, the game was over. I knew they were going to make a play.”

The Patriots jumped out to a 6-0 lead after back-to-back threes from senior guard Woody Newton. Mason kept a solid lead for most of the first half before Central Michigan went on a 9-2 run to tie the game at 21. The Chippewas carried the momentum into the second half, extending their lead to as much as seven.

Senior guard Darius Maddox led the Patriots in scoring for the fourth consecutive game, scoring 15 points on 5-13 shooting. Maddox is the only Patriots averaging double figures on the season, scoring 18 points per game, and has played at least 30 minutes in three of Mason’s first four games.

While Maddox and Newton made a combined five 3-pointers, the rest of the Patriots struggled from beyond the arc, going 0-8. Mason also struggled from the free throw line, shooting 24-34. In a one-point game, the Patriots’ struggles from the charity stripe proved to be their downfall.

“Tonight we didn’t have the intensity, we weren’t intentional and, in moments, we didn’t play with any intelligence at all, emotionally and physically,” Skinn said.

Mason will look to rebound on Nov. 16 against East Carolina in Greenville, N.C. The Patriots won 81-59 last season at EagleBank Arena in the first game of their home-and-home series with the Pirates. Mason will return home on Nov. 20 for a matchup with winless Coppin State.

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

The Patriots handled Monmouth to set up a crucial road trip

BY GABRIEL KING, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mason women’s basketball defeated Monmouth 89-66 on Tuesday at EagleBank Arena to improve to 3-0 on the season. After three straight home wins, the Patriots will play six of their next seven games away from home.

Sophomore guard Kennedy Harris has led the way for the Patriots, averaging 14.7 points in three games and shooting 50% from the field. Against Monmouth, Harris scored a team-high 20 points and made a career-high seven free throws.

“I just took the opportunities,” Harris said. “It’s just another chance for me to score easily at the free throw line.” 

Along with Harris’ strong start, the Patriots have used a balanced attack to smother their opponents. Six Patriots are averaging at least eight points this season, including Harris, graduate student guard Ta’Viyanna Habib and graduate student forward Nalani Kaysia all averaging double figures.

“I think this year, the depth that we have, where it can be anybody’s night… I think that’s what’s going to make us really special,” Head Coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis said.

The Patriots won their first three games by an average of 33 points, the second-best scoring margin in the Atlantic 10. Mason has been able to grow their leads with disruptive defense, as they’ve forced 72 turnovers this season, good for first in the A-10.

While Mason’s defense has been stout, the Patriots have not gone without their occasional struggles. Mason’s opponents have scored at least 20 points in three quarters, including the third and fourth quarters against Monmouth. The Hawks scored 21 points in the third quarter and 20 in the fourth to put some pressure on the Patriots. 

“I just think that there were just some lulls in our defensive commitment tonight,” Blair-Lewis said. “I think that we could definitely do better.” 

In a seven-game stretch that includes three games against power conference opponents, the Patriots will need to play stellar defense to pick up resume-building wins.

The Patriots may be without Kaysia for the road trip. The graduate student left Tuesday’s win with an undisclosed injury.

Mason’s road swing starts at Marshall University on Nov. 17 at 6:00 p.m. The Patriots defeated the Thundering Herd 84-77 at home last season. Mason will then head south for a matchup with Atlantic Coast Conference foe Wake Forest on Nov. 20 in a nationally televised game on ACC Network.

The Patriots return home on Nov. 26, hosting Blair-Lewis’ alma mater Mount St. Mary’s at 7:00 p.m. Student tickets are available through Mason360.

Melanie Jensen/Fourth Estate

BY MELANIE JENSEN, STAFF WRITER

Walking through Wilkins Plaza on Oct. 29, students may have noticed a group praying on the grass outside the Johnson Center. These students represent a small number of the Muslim community on Mason’s Fairfax campus asking for a permanent and adequate space to practice their religion. 

On Nov. 3, the Muslim Student Association (MSA) and Mason Student Government appealed to the Mason administration in an Instagram post, asking the administration to find a permanent and appropriate prayer space for Muslim students on campus. The call to action came after fire marshals closed the designated prayer and meditation space on the third floor of the Johnson Center on Oct. 16. 

Fire marshals deemed the room divider and the high occupancy of the meditation room a fire hazard, leaving hundreds of students and faculty without a space for their daily prayers. The room was reconfigured and temporarily reopened on Oct. 21, but MSA officers said the reconfiguration made the space unsuitable for students’ religious needs. MSA invited female students to continue to use the space, while male students prayed on the grass in front of the Johnson Center on Wilkins Plaza.

“Muslim students had no choice but to complete their congregation of daily prayers outdoors in Wilkins Plaza and have temporarily returned to the JC space, both of which have been undignified and inadequate solutions due to a lack of administrative support,” MSA said in a joint statement with the Cuesta-McAulay administration and Mason Student Government on Instagram. 

In the statement, MSA demanded that Mason administration provide an adequate space for daily prayer and other religious activities and establish a formal line of communication to address current and future concerns. MSA requested that Mason administration actively support Mason’s Muslim community in an effort to maintain Mason’s mission of celebrating diversity. 

According to MSA, the student organization has been asking for a larger and more suitable prayer space to accommodate students’ religious needs for years. Some students expressed feelings of disaffection and being ignored due to Mason administration’s “lack of urgency” to address their requests.

“This has only heightened feelings of alienation amongst Muslim students at a time when incidents of harassment and discrimination have largely gone unaddressed by the university, which has contributed to the degradation of the political climate on campus,” MSA said in the statement. 

On Nov. 9, MSA shared a petition with a list of requests. “As the political climate intensifies and discrimination against Muslim communities grows, it is critical that the university recognizes and supports its Muslim students,” said MSA in the petition statement. MSA asked the Mason community to sign in support of the “over 1,650 members” of their organization. 

“We urge the university to prioritize the establishment of appropriate prayer facilities that reflect the dignity and respect that all students deserve–no community should feel the lack of support that Muslim students currently do,” MSA said.

Fourth Estate reached out to Mason for comment but have yet to hear back. 

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

Mason’s bench outscored Stony Brook’s bench 52-24 to fuel the win

BY CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

Mason men’s basketball bounced back from their loss against Marquette, winning against Stony Brook 94-56 on Nov. 11. Mason senior guard Darius Maddox led the way with 20 points. 

Mason senior guard Jared Billups scored the first two points. Mason got off to an early 26-12 lead with bench points from senior guard  K.D. Johnson, graduate forward  Zach Anderson and junior forward  Giovanni Emejuru. 

Stony Brook used their defensive schemes, shifting from a 3-2 zone to a 2-3 zone to slow down Mason’s offensive game. As Mason passed the ball around, players would get the extra touch to knock down a better shot. Mason was up 46-27 at halftime with the biggest lead at 21 points in the first half. 

“They try to mix it up defensively… 2-3, 3-2, and we were prepared for it after the first or second possession,” Head Coach Tony Skinn said. “It’s good to see the ball going in the hoop, 11 threes. I will take that on any night.”

Mason shot 16-27 on field goals and 50% from the 3-point line, while Stony Brook shot 32.1% from the field and 2-13 from the 3-point line. Mason’s bench outscored Stony Brook’s bench 30-10.

In the first half, Anderson led the way off the bench with 15 points, shooting 5-6 from the 3-point line with five rebounds. Johnson had seven points on 2-4 shooting from the 3-point line and five assists. Emejuru had six points, shooting 3-3 from the field goal with two rebounds. 

Mason gained their largest lead of the night during the second half with 39 points. Maddox scored 16 points in the second half and the bench finished with 52 points as a group. Mason closed the game with a 94-56 win over Stony Brook, marking their largest win in two seasons.

“We have a bunch of guys that can go [for] 20 plus every night,” Anderson said when asked about bench production. “Some nights you take the backseat and some nights it’s your night, so today was my night.” Andreson finished the game with 15 points and seven rebounds.

Mason’s defense shut down Stony Brook, holding the Seawolves to 31.7% shooting from the field and 19.2% from the 3-point line. Mason recorded 12 steals while Stony Brook recorded five steals. Mason outrebounded Stony Brook 43-31. 

Mason will play again on Nov 13. at 7 p.m. against Central Michigan in the final game of the Marquette Challenge at EagleBank Arena. The game will be streamed on ESPN+ and student tickets are available through Mason360. 

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

Mason wins 2-0 against La Salle to keep their championship hopes alive

BY CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

On Nov. 8th, Mason’s Men Soccer advanced to the Atlantic 10 semifinals after winning 2-0 against La Salle. Mason is the first team in Division I to hit 13 wins this season.

In the first 10 minutes, Mason dominated the game with strong ball movement on the field to find any chance of scoring. In the 15th minute, La Salle almost scored a goal, but it was called off due to a foul inside the box.

Whenever Mason lost the ball, the Patriots added pressure to La Salle and regained possession quickly. With this style of play, La Salle struggled to create chances. 

In the 33rd minute, Mason freshman forward Martim Sereno, on the right side of the field, found Mason graduate student defender Jordi Navio Sanchez running inside the box. Sanchez passed the ball to sophomore midfielder Javier Montava, who ran from the outside box to the inside box, then kicked the ball to the bottom left corner, putting Mason up 1-0.

Things started to get chippy in the second half for the teams, as both sides started to receive yellow cards. In the 59th minute, Mason sophomore forward Quentin Clain started a breakaway for Mason’s attack but it ended shortly because of La Salle midfielder Nevin Baer’s tackle, costing him a yellow card.

La Salle committed 12 fouls while Mason committed six fouls. La Salle received 6 yellow cards and one red card while Mason received 2 yellow cards.

In the 73rd minute, the Explorers gave the ball away to Mason sophomore forward Kelly Janssen. Janssen took the ball down the left, passed two of La Salle’s defenders, and got the ball over La Salle’s goalkeeper. Janssen kicked the ball down the middle, putting Mason up 2-0.

Mason had eight shots on target in the game, including Montava’s second goal of the season and a third goal for Janssen.

Graduate goalkeeper Jaume Salvado received his sixth clean sheet of the season after Mason’s defense conceded no goals.

Mason looks to add to its 8-1 record at home as they face Saint Louis at George Mason Stadium on Nov. 13 in the A-10 semifinals. Student tickets are available through Mason360.