A "We Love You Deana" sign projected on the screen of the scorer's table inside Esbjornson Gymnasium. Glassboro, N.J. Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025. (Sports Editor / Sarah Shockey)
Countless Rowan students, families, student-athletes, and coaches packed Esbjornson Gymnasium on Tuesday night to support Rowan women’s volleyball during its Halloween-themed match against Rutgers-Newark.
In celebration of the holiday, candy was tossed into the stands throughout the night. Select students also participated in games between sets for prizes.
More importantly, the night was also about recognizing head coach Deana Jespersen.
Jespersen has been away from the team since her breast cancer recurred earlier this month. She was initially diagnosed with breast cancer back in March of 2021, but had been in remission for several years.
Before the match, the scorer’s table displayed countless photos of Jespersen with her players, captioned, “We love you Deana”.
The Profs honored their head coach all continued strength and leadership as she continues her battle with the disease.
After their win, Rowan volleyball held up heart hands to the camera streaming their match live. That love-filled gesture was for their head coach, who was watching remotely.
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