The Dutchmen Documentary

Keith Adams ’95 lives in Minersville with his wife, Jodi, and their children, Abigail and John. The twins are LVC sophomores studying Clinical Psychology/Mental Health Counseling and Criminal Justice, respectively. John is an outfielder on the baseball team.

Keith has worked in sales for the past 25 years in the biopharmaceutical industry. After serving in sales leadership, he became the brand marketing manager for GSK vaccines. Keith received his MBA in pharmaceutical marketing from St. Joseph’s University and has been active in his community. He has coached youth baseball, served on the borough council, and is the Minersville Area School Board president.

Why LVC?

Because LVC felt like home. I enjoyed the small-town feel, classes, and the opportunity to play where my family could easily come to games. I also believed strongly in Coach Flannery. It was the greatest college experience anyone could ask for, and I met a group of guys who became lifelong friends—family!

Philip Campbell ’98 lives in his hometown of Sunbury with his wife, Debra, and daughters, Lauren and Sophie. Philip taught in various school districts before entering higher education and joining Lackawanna College in Scranton in 2006. The college opened a new location in his hometown in 2017, and Philip was appointed the campus’ center director.

He is active at his high school alma mater in the Shikellamy School District, including coaching girls’ basketball and working with the booster club to support all athletes. Philip is a member of The Shikellamy Braves Foundation board, which helps support the district’s students, faculty, and programs.

Why LVC?

I liked LVC because it was a smaller institution, and I could see myself being part of it for four years. I met many great people there and had the pleasure of playing basketball for a team that was special. I certainly would not be where I am today without the education I received and the friends I met at LVC.

Troy Elser ’97 lives in Parkton, Md., with his wife and three children.

Troy worked at Morgan Stanley for a decade, building a successful wealth management firm and managing the Hunt Valley office. He then joined UBS Financial Services, founding Elser Wealth Management.

In 2017, Troy started an independent wealth management firm, Seventy2 Capital Wealth Management, with two partners. He is the firm’s senior wealth advisor.

In addition to coaching, Troy is active with the Knights of Columbus and Little Kids Big Dream’s Foundation.

Troy’s oldest daughter, Kylie, is a junior at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington. His son, Landen, is a Loyola Blakefield High School basketball team player, and his youngest, Keegan, plays basketball and lacrosse at Hereford High School. His wife, Kim, is active in the community and works at the local gym.

Why LVC?

Coach Flannery and Coach Friday made me feel important and that LVC was special. It was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. I played for a national championship team but, more importantly, built friendships that last to this day.

Troy Gregory ’95 returned to Annville in 2017, where he lives with his wife, Joy, and daughters, Lily and Hartley. Joy enjoys working in the Annville Cleona School District administrative offices, and the girls attend Annville Cleona.

Troy has worked in the roofing material distribution business for the past 20-plus years. Since 2010, he has served in various roles for ABC Supply Co. Inc., where he is responsible for commercial roofing product sales in Eastern and Central Pennsylvania.

Why LVC?
Having grown up on a farm in the small town of Weatherly, Pa., LVC was an excellent fit. Secondly, LVC had just begun a very innovative academic scholarship program I fortunately qualified for. The final piece was that I wanted to continue playing basketball.

I am very thankful to Coach Flannery and Coach Friday for giving me that opportunity. As I look back, I’m extremely grateful for having chosen LVC. The relationships and friends I made are with me forever.

John Harper ’94 lives in Pagosa Springs, Colo., with his wife, Jessica, and their children, Logan, Chase, and Cole.

After graduation, John moved to Orlando, Fla., to begin a 20-year career with Hyatt Hotels. He worked at and opened several Hyatt Resorts during his two decades.

Next, John and Jessica brought Fireside Cabins in Pagosa Springs. They and their children operate the 15-cabin resort oasis on the San Juan River.

Logan attends Colorado State University, while twins Chase and Cole are high school seniors. All three boys enjoy basketball, golf, and quality lake time!

Why LVC?

It was not an easy decision, but after a campus visit and a home visit by Coach Flannery, I knew LVC would be my home for four years. You could not write a better script. Being a co-captain of the national championship team and earning my degree was an honor. Thank you to everyone who prepared me for the future, being my other “home,” and enabling me to meet some of the most incredible people in my life!

Mark Hofsass ’95 lives in Elizabethtown with his wife, Jill, and sons, Tyson and Brady.

He began his career with IU13 in Lebanon, then taught English in the Central Dauphin School District until 2006, joining Palmyra High School. Mark was the head basketball from 2000–07 after serving in the role at Lower Dauphin High School from 2017–15.

Mark is president of the Palmyra Area Education Association and the school’s yearbook advisor. A 1,000-point scorer at The Valley, Mark has coached several sports at different levels, including the Central PA Elite 16U basketball team. He is an LVC and Central Pennsylvania Athletic Hall of Fame member.

His son, Tyson, is a junior business management major on the LVC men’s basketball team. Brady is a high school junior at Lower Dauphin and a member of the basketball and volleyball teams.

Why LVC?

The people. I forged lifelong friendships after we converged at the right time and place. We experienced something memorable that has shaped our lives. “Team” took a lot of shapes at LVC, where we learned the value of being a cohesive unit.

John Lazicki ’96 lives in Mt. Carmel with his wife, Jennifer, and sons, Jude and Jonah. He has taught in the Mt. Carmel Area School District for 26 years and has been the head varsity basketball coach since the 1999–2000 season.

Why LVC?

Deciding to attend LVC was an easy choice after my visit. I talked to some faculty members, basketball coaches, and players and just knew that day that LVC was the place for me. It felt like home and turned out to be a great decision. Playing on a national championship team was an accomplishment that connects us to this day.

I also received an excellent education, which truly prepared me for a career in education. The things I learned and experienced and the friendships I made are irreplaceable. I couldn’t be happier with my time at Lebanon Valley College!

Mahanoy City native Mike Rhoades was named Penn State University Men’s Basketball head coach in March 2023.  Mike met wife Jodie ’96 at LVC.  Their daughter Porter is a high school senior and son Chase is in 8th grade. Son Logan is a freshman at Colgate University.

Mike’s first coaching position was in 1996 as an assistant coach at Randolph-Macon College.  He spent 10 seasons with RMC, served as an assistant coach at Virginia Commonwealth University from 1996-2009, was named head coach of Rice University from 2014-17, before returning to VCU as Head Coach in 2017.  His coaching success includes seven NCAA Tournament appearances and nine postseason appearances as head coach, and 12 NCAA Tournament appearances and 15 postseason appearances throughout his coaching career. Mike earned his masters from VCU’s Center for Sports Leadership in 2002.

Mike is a member of the Mahanoy Area High School Hall of Fame, Lebanon Valley College Hall of Fame (team and individual), Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) Hall of Fame, Central Chapter Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame, Eastern Chapter Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame and Jerry Wolman, Northern Anthracite Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame. Mike’s No. 5 jersey is retired by LVC.

Why LVC?

When I was searching for my college choice, I was recruited by all different levels of colleges, but Coach Flannery made me feel like a priority. I met professors who were genuinely invested in my success and growth. I indeed became the best version of myself.  I went to the place that wanted me the most.

If you had asked me then or now if I would have traded places for something bigger, I’d say, “No way, LVC was the place for me. The college search is truly finding the place for you. I feel fortunate to have people who impacted my life in ways I could never imagine.”

Jason Say ’95 lives in northwest Pennsylvania with his wife, Liza ’99, and their children, Colin and Addison.

After graduation, Jason worked at the Good Samaritan Health System in Lebanon for 14 years, working his way up to becoming the director of marketing and strategic planning. He founded a full-service digital media company and outdoor entertainment channel, which he runs to this day, while at Good Samaritan.

Jason is active in his community in various volunteer organizations, foundations, and coaching. He is also a local school board member.

His son, Colin, plays college basketball and was recently named Academic All-American. His 15-year-old daughter, Addison, loves basketball and volleyball.

Why LVC?

Choosing LVC was undoubtedly one of the best decisions of my life. First and foremost, I met my beautiful wife, Liza, at LVC. Secondly, I had the privilege of playing with some of my best friends on the 1994 National Championship Team. But probably most important, I received a terrific education that prepared me for the future. Why LVC? It always felt like family!

Chris Seiler ’95 graduated with a Psychology degree and an English Communications minor. He and his wife, Kristin, who live in Carlisle, have three children: Maddie, Carlee, and Ben.

After graduation, Chris worked in various positions in the mental health field for about five years. He then changed his career path and entered law enforcement, serving a correctional officer and probation officer before joining the Swatara Township Police Department 16 years ago. For the past 13 years, Chris has been a detective in the department’s Criminal Investigations Division.

Chris and his family enjoy outdoor activities and being engaged in their church and mission work in the Dominican Republic.

Why LVC?

Well, LVC chose me in a lot of ways. Coach Friday introduced me to LVC, and then the rest fell into place. The college experience and wonderful education I received fostered amazing lifelong friendships and personal and professional connections. The tight-knit LVC family and winning a National Championship have impacted me ever since.

Craig Sharnetzka ’96 lives with his wife, Rachel, and their three children—Corrinne, Levi, and Evah—in Southeastern York County.

After graduation, Craig enrolled at the Dickinson School of Law of the Pennsylvania State University, graduating in 1996. Three years later, he started a private law practice, Countess, Gilbert and Andrews (now CGA Law Firm). Craig is a firm shareholder and president.

Why LVC?

Coming from a rural high school, I liked LVC’s size. I also received a Vickroy Scholarship, and my parents were alumni.

I made the right decision. I enjoyed my four years, and it was an awesome experience to be a member of the National Championship team. I also played golf for four years under Coach [Lou ’54 ] Sorrentino.

LVC prepared me well for law school, and I owe my advisor, Dr. [John] Norton, a debt of gratitude for working with me and assisting me with my law school admission. I will always be fond of LVC and take pride in being a Dutchman.

Mark Smith ’96 lives in Lenhartsville after raising two daughters, Alexsys and Cassandra. Alexsys is a sous chef at the Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island, Fla., and Cassandra is a team lead for Sherwin Williams Paints in Fredericksburg.

Mark began his 14-year career as a store manager at Sherwin-Williams before becoming an outside sales representative and warehouse manager. Today, he is an operations manager at Amazon’s fulfillment center in Shartlesville. Mark coached baseball, basketball, and softball for 17 years.

An avid supporter of military members and their families, Mark is active with the Warriors@Amazon affinity group.

Why LVC?

Choosing LVC was a great decision for two primary reasons. I received an excellent education and was honored to play basketball with my “brothers” on the court. I built a brotherhood with the men and women of the National Championship team. We have remained in touch through the years, and I consider my teammates, coaches, and support staff as family.

Scott Stephenson ’95 lives in Myerstown with his wife, Kelly, and daughters, Kendra and Olivia.

After graduating, Scott briefly worked in the criminal justice field before becoming a drug and alcohol administrator for the next 12 years. Today, he is a facility administrator in the healthcare industry.

Scott and Kelly recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. Kendra is a senior education major who aspires to become a teacher. A high school senior, Olivia plans to attend college as a psychology major next year.

Why LVC?

Choosing Lebanon Valley College opened so many personal and professional opportunities, so much so that I remained in the area after graduation. I made lifelong connections thanks to LVC and earned a sociology degree that helped me excel in life. Thank you for everything, LVC!!

Steve Zeiber ’94, his wife of more than 20 years, Cassandra, and five children live in Reading.

Morgan, a recent St. Joseph’s University graduate, is studying for her financial advising license. Alexa is majoring in computer science and math at Fordham University and is studying abroad this semester. Barrett, who is passionate about cars, is a high school senior. Twins Brady and Bryson are middle schoolers who love baseball and basketball.

Steve has worked in the wireless industry since 1996. He is a senior account manager with Asurion, covering the Northeast today. He is active in his community, including founding Downtown Sportz, a summer basketball league in Berks County.

Why LVC?

From when Coach Flannery and Coach [Lou] Sorrentino ’54 visited me in high school, I felt like LVC would become my second home. Majoring in business management gave me the education and experience that prepared me for a successful career.

I made so many good friends and had great coaches and teammates who turned us into brothers as we grew into a close-knit family.

Jason Zitter ’96 lives in Jupiter, Fla., with his wife, Lauren, and daughter, Logan.

Jason began his career as an elementary school teacher for six years in Lebanon before entering the financial services industry. Today, he is the co-head of the Banking Field Engagement UBS Americas team, which oversees the day-to-day operations of UBS Bank USA’s Senior Wealth Management Bankers and Wealth Management Bankers. Jason is responsible for implementing the overall bank sales strategy across the Americas. He holds Series 7, 66, and 24 FINRA licenses.

Why LVC?

I did not know it at the time, but LVC prepared me for the biggest game I would play in—life. My decision to attend LVC was unique. My mom was recently diagnosed with cancer and quickly became very sick when I first met Coach Flannery. The family of a high school teammate knew Coach Flannery and spoke very highly of him. His vision, discipline, and treatment of his players as extended family impressed him. The rest is history—moms know best.

“As an LVC alumni, I had the privilege of watching the documentary on the LVC 1994 Basketball National Championship season during Homecoming 2023. It was an incredibly nostalgic and heartwarming experience to remember the triumphs and challenges of our beloved team during that unforgettable season. The documentary not only reignited my college spirit but also showcased the qualities of resilience and unity that I learned during my time at LVC. I must admit, there were many tears of joy shed during the viewing, as I was relived so many wonderful college memories. For fellow LVC alumni, this documentary is a must-watch, as it will transport you back to a time of great pride and camaraderie. It’s a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of our alma mater and the incredible achievements that can be realized when a group of individuals comes together with a common goal.

To anyone associated with LVC or anyone seeking inspiration through the lens of sports, this documentary is a heartfelt journey that I wholeheartedly recommend. It’s an extraordinary tale of what it means to be an LVC alumni and the enduring spirit of our college community.”

— Donna Centofanti Felty ’95

“The Dutchmen is a “Must See” film. This film was outstanding, and it illustrated how a small-town college won a NCAA Division III National Championship in 1994. The team had a group of players and coaches that built a culture of winning but more importantly creating a family bond and chemistry and created memories for a lifetime. This championship not only included the players and coaches, but a huge part of their success was from the support of the college student-body, faculty, and the community. The Dutchmen highlights so much insight of the culture that was built by the coaches and players and includes “goosebump” type videos of games and documentaries of the players and coaches that includes humor, building relationships and emotion. The 1994 Lebanon Valley College Men’s Basketball team was successful both on and off the court and that still remains 30 years later.”

— Doug Bohannon P’25

“The Dutchmen vividly recounts the team’s season with the culminating moment of David vs. Goliath in the National Championship game. The documentary seamlessly blends chilling nostalgia with the excitement of on-court action, offering a memorable journey through a season that transcends sports.

The camaraderie among the players is palpable, and the sweat and tears are tangible. Even though I had a front-row seat as the drama unfolded, 30 years later, I still found myself cheering with joy during the highs and feeling a lump in my throat when we were down. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions that culminates in a testament to the resilience and spirit of the team.”

— Catherine Crissman Sullivan ’94, Trainer, 1994 National Championship Team