“I am very excited to name these three student-athletes our captains,” said Head Coach Greg Herenda. “All three of these guys deserve a share of the captaincy for different reasons. They all have very diverse personalities and bring something different to the table for our program and university. They are people that our players look up to.”
Walton, a junior guard, joined the team as a walk on in 2008 and has earned his way to a scholarship and the starting lineup. He started 12 of the final 13 games during the River Hawks’ run through the conference tournament, helping them defeat #2 Bentley on the road with a 12 point, 10 rebound performance.
“Robbie has been, from day one, a great, quiet leader for this team,” Herenda said. “He does his job and improves every single day.”
Tavares-Taylor, a sophomore point guard, was a consistent force for UMass Lowell last season, appearing in each of their 32 games, starting the final six. He was named to the Northeast-10 All-Tournament Team after netting a season-best 19 points in the Championship game. He scored in double-figures 10 times and averaged 6.5 ppg on the year.
“Scotty is our point guard and leader on the floor,” Herenda said. “This season, he will have to step up and take a leadership role in directing our offenses and defenses, as well.”
Welch, a sophomore wing, joined the team midway through the season last year, coming from the University of New Hampshire football program. The former quarterback and Lowell native became a hidden weapon for the River Hawks and is the squad’s leading returning scorer. Welch appeared in 12 games last year, averaging 8.8 rebounds and 3.9 boards.
“Matt is just a born leader,” Herenda said. “He brings a football mentality to our basketball team, which I like.”
The River Hawks are coming off a 20-12 season and are the defending NE-10 Conference Tournament Champions. Despite losing nine veterans from the squad, the team boasts impressive newcomers and dedicated veterans.
“I am confident in the combination of these three young men,” Herenda said. “I believe they will serve as great leaders to our program in so many ways.”
The River Hawks will open their season this weekend, as they host the Tip-Off Classic at UMass Lowell. They will first host Post on Saturday, Nov. 13 at 2:00 p.m. before facing Felician the following afternoon at 4:00. The NE-10’s own Pace will also play in the tournament.
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