The East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Women's Triathlon team is set to dive into their 2025 season with the much-anticipated Buccaneer Collegiate Cup. This event marks the fourth consecutive year that ETSU has hosted this exciting season opener, and it promises to be a thrilling start to their campaign. As the team enters its 10th year under the guidance of head coach Allie Nicosia, the Buccaneer Collegiate Cup is more than just a race—it's a celebration of the program's legacy and future potential.

A Tradition of Excellence

The Buccaneer Collegiate Cup will take place on Friday evening, with events spread across the ETSU Campus and the Basler Center for Physical Activity. This multi-location event will challenge athletes in swimming, biking, and running, providing a comprehensive test of their triathlon skills. Competing teams include Navy, Warren Wilson, King, Lenoir-Rhyne, and Queens University, the latter of which finished third nationally in 2024. The race course is meticulously designed to test endurance and strategy, ensuring a competitive and exciting event for all participants.

Honoring the Legacy

This season opener is particularly significant as it honors the contributions of senior athletes like Delaney Hammill, who has been a cornerstone of the team for four years and serves as team captain. The event also highlights the integration of new talent, such as Maddie Gagnon, a transfer from Wingate, and Bonita Gray, who brings her experience from track and field and cross country. These athletes embody the program's continuity, bridging past successes with future aspirations.

A Diverse and Talented Squad

The 2025 roster is a blend of experience and fresh talent, featuring three seniors, one junior, four sophomores, and one freshman. Key returners include seven athletes from the 2024 roster, providing a strong foundation for the team. Among them is Julia Visgueiro, an international standout from Brazil, who has already made her mark with a bronze medal at the 2025 Junior Pan American Games in Paraguay and a silver at the U23 South Americas Championship. Her achievements underscore the program's commitment to recruiting and developing top-tier international talent.

New Faces, New Opportunities

In addition to Visgueiro, the team welcomes several new faces, including Andie Psilopoulos from Duquesne and Ninon Lapierre, a promising freshman from France. These additions reflect the program's growth and its strategic approach to building a competitive squad. The integration of these athletes into the existing team culture is crucial for maintaining the program's upward trajectory.

Building on Recent Success

The 2024 season was a testament to the team's capabilities, highlighted by a third-place finish at the NCAA Regional meet and an eighth-place overall finish at the NCAA Championships. These achievements, coupled with the team's recognition as a CTCA Academic Team, set a high standard for the 2025 season. The Buccaneer Collegiate Cup is the first step in building on this momentum and aiming for even greater success.

Leadership and Vision

Under the leadership of Coach Allie Nicosia, now in her sixth season, the ETSU Women's Triathlon program has flourished. Her philosophy of building a championship culture is evident in the team's recruitment strategy, which balances domestic and international talent. The Buccaneer Collegiate Cup is not just a race; it's a strategic component of the team's broader preparation for the season.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 season unfolds, the team is focused on achieving their goals and building on the successes of 2024. With a strong roster and a clear vision, the ETSU Women's Triathlon team is poised for a promising season. The Buccaneer Collegiate Cup is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey.

In conclusion, the Buccaneer Collegiate Cup is more than a race; it's a celebration of ETSU Women's Triathlon's legacy and future. As the team embarks on their 10th season, they invite the community to support and follow their journey. With a blend of seasoned athletes and new talent, the team is ready to make their mark on the 2025 season.

Follow ETSU Women's Triathlon on social media for updates and support their journey through the Excellence Fund. Let's cheer them on as they strive for success in the 2025 season!