A New Identity (1986-1995): Fostering Excellence in Academics and Athletics at Monroe College
In this captivating episode of '90 Years Strong: The Monroe College Story,' host David Spiegel, Assistant Athletic Director for Athletic Communications, dives into the rich history and success of Monroe College's athletic programs along with guests Sandy Rodriguez (Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance and Senior Woman Administrator) and Lou Melendez (Assistant Vice President of Athletics).
The episode delves into the origins of the program starting with the first varsity men's basketball team in 1989, their progression over the decades, and the impressive achievements of many Monroe alumni. The conversation highlights team successes, international outreach, and the institution's commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
David, Sandy, and Lou share personal anecdotes and aspirations for future developments, including new sports programs and a Hall of Fame to celebrate Monroe College's legacy.
Creators and Guests
Host
David Spiegel
Assistant Athletic Director, Monroe College - Communications professional specializing in sports. Great self-starter and team player. Independently motivated. A sports fan living out his dream behind the scenes.
Guest
Luis Melendez
Luis Melendez serves as Assistant Vice President - Athletics for Monroe College, and served as Head Baseball Coach for 14 seasons. He became the second head coach in program history in 2006 after just one season serving as the program’s chief assistant. Since then, he has transformed the Monroe Mustangs baseball program into one of the top NJCAA Division I programs in the nation, while also developing the Monroe College Athletic Department into the premiere NJCAA Division I athletic program in New York and the northeast. While taking the Monroe Mustangs program to new heights over his tenure as Director of Athletics, Melendez also spearheaded the formation of the Monroe Express, an NJCAA Division III program based out of Monroe College's Bronx campus. Melendez tenure at Monroe produced an overall record of 348-258-4, and helped well more than 100 student-athletes move on to four-year programs, including numerous players drafted in the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft. In 2018, Melendez led the Mustangs to their first-ever Eastern District Championship, as well as their first-ever appearance to the Junior College World Series in Grand Junction, Colo. In 2019, the Mustangs repeated as Eastern District Champions and made it back to the Junior College World Series for the second straight season. Melendez has also led Monroe to six Region XV titles and has been named Region XV Coach of the Year six times, as well as Eastern District Coach of the Year in 2018 and 2019. The Mustangs produced their first-ever NJCAA All-American in 2018 when Antonio Frias was picked to the First Team. July Sosa became the team's second NJCAA All-American in 2019, earning a spot as an Honorable Mention. Under Melendez's leadership, the Mustangs also claimed the Region XV Sportsmanship Award in both 2018 and 2019. A 1995 graduate of Dewitt Clinton HS (Bronx, NY), Melendez received his bachelor’s degree in economics from Lehman College in 1999. After a successful college career in which he was an All-Region catcher, he went on to play professionally for five years, including stints with the Quebec City Capitales, Bangor Lumberjacks, and the Schaumburg Flyers of the Northern League.
Guest
Sandy Rodriguez
Sandy Rodriguez is a dedicated professional who has devoted many years to serving Monroe College in various capacities. With a wealth of experience and a passion for fostering positive relationships and opportunities, Sandy has made significant contributions as Assistant Director of Compliance / SWA . Throughout her journey at Monroe College, Sandy has exemplified a commitment to excellence in athletics and education. Sandy's unwavering commitment to junior college athletics is evident in her efforts to provide student-athletes with pathways to excel in sports while pursuing academic goals. Her work has helped showcase Monroe College as a premier destination for student-athletes, leaving behind a legacy of unparalleled dedication and positive influence.
