A member of the 2018-19 Nichols College men's tennis program which captured the Commonwealth Coast Conference (CCC) Championship, Sebastian Peñaloza passed away late last week.

Peñaloza was named to the 2018-19 CCC Second Team in both singles and doubles after registering 17 singles wins - including a 7-0 mark in conference play. One of four student-athletes to pick up 20 doubles wins, Peñaloza recorded wins at No. 2 doubles in the CCC Semifinal against Gordon, the CCC Championship against Western New England, and the NCAA First Round against Wilkes. He also earned singles wins against Division II institutions Saint Anselm, Stonehill, Franklin Pierce, and Assumption. 

A native of Grafton, Mass., Peñaloza attended Morehead State University as a freshman in 2015-16 before transferring to Keiser University in Florida the following season. He participated in the ATP circuit since juniors and represented Chile on the U16 team that won the South American Champion in 2011 in Buenes Aires.

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Memories of Sebastian

"'Seba' was a huge part of our program during his time 'On the Hill.' His talent was off the charts, but it was his positive energy and sense of humor that made him such an important piece of our tennis family. He was a great friend to many and someone who was always fun to be around. My heart goes out to his mom Pamela and their entire family." -Nichols College head men's and women's tennis coach Paul Brower

"Apart from being an amazing tennis player and a productive player on the team, Sebastian was a joy to be around off the court. He always brought positive vibes and increased team camaraderie. He was an amazing friend and always willing to help out those who needed. Overall, he was an amazing friend, teammate, and person." -former Nichols College men's tennis player and doubles teammate Blake Norton

"One thing I'll never forget about Sebastian is his ability to make anybody laugh at any given moment. For anybody who met him, whether it was just once or twice, I know he made you laugh. He was an amazing tennis player and one of the best teammates I've ever seen in my entire life. His energy and spirit on the court was unmatchable. I was very lucky to have become such close friends with him. We were like brothers. He was my "older little brother," as I used to call him. He lived life to the absolute fullest and made such a positive impact on my life and many others. Rest in peace, 'Seba.'" -former Nichols College men's tennis student-athlete and friend Max Karger

"It truly saddens me to hear of Sebastian's passing. Although he was only 'On the Hill' for a short period of time, the impact he had on our tennis program, his teammates, coaches, and our community were immense. He was a great young man and will truly be missed by all. We send our sincere condolences to the Peñaloza family, his teammates, and friends during these extremely difficult times." -Nichols College Director of Athletics Eric Gobiel

"Sebastian's time at Nichols was short, but the memories he made with many will last forever. Seba, Sea Bass, Sebastian - whatever you called him - he was one of a kind! His smile and humor were infectious. Screaming "C'Mon Bison!!" would fuel others to work harder and crack a needed smile. Rest easy, Seba!  My sincere condolences go out to Sebastian's family and friends at this time." -Nichols College assistant tennis coach Ryan Hibbard

Those wishing to contribute memories or photos of Sebastian for this celebration should contact Pete DiVito at peter.divito@nichols.edu.