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With summer quickly giving way to fall, the Thomas Aquinas College, New England, Class of 2026 decided to make the most of the last of the warm weather by taking the freshmen out Sunday for some kayaking, swimming, and sports on the banks of the Connecticut river.

“I had so much fun at my Freshman River Day,” said Teresa Bingham (’26). “I hope this year’s freshmen have just as much fun as I did!”

Photos: River Day
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The men of the class chivalrously hauled kayaks, life jackets and paddles down to the dock, while the women set up Spikeball and volleyball. Despite the partly cloudy skies, it was a perfect day to float down the river. Freshmen paired up with juniors and took to the water, enjoying the beautiful view along the banks. Some students raced each other to see who was the fastest paddler.

When they got out of the water, the students scrambled up the shore to play volleyball while juniors Jack Milligan and Tommy Dula started grilling burgers to feed the hungry crowd. “Kayaking really works up your appetite,” laughed Maddy O’Kray (’28). When the burgers were ready, the Classes of ’26 and ’28 dug in, getting to know each other over food and fun. The clouds cleared just as the sun began to sink, creating a stunning backdrop for the juniors and freshmen as they ate.

Worn out from their riverside adventures, students headed back to campus, where they finished the night with a bonfire, s’mores, and folk songs. “I think we’re going to be good friends with the juniors,” said Sonia Johnson (’28). “They sure know how to have a good time!”