Villanova's Father Hagan Inspires MMA Basketball on Wisdom Wednesday

Last season, Merion Mercy Basketball launched Wisdom Wednesdays—a weekly tradition that reminds our student-athletes that the lessons learned on the court extend far beyond the scoreboard. Each week, the team welcomes a guest speaker who connects the discipline, teamwork, and resilience of the game to the bigger picture of life.

Recently, the team had the privilege of welcoming Rev. Rob Hagan, OSA from Villanova University. Father Hagan serves as the 41st Prior Provincial of the Augustinian Province of St. Thomas of Villanova and is also the longtime team chaplain for Villanova’s football and men’s basketball programs. A dynamic and sought-after speaker, he brought both wisdom and warmth to the conversation.

Father Hagan encouraged the girls to “go with what you’ve got”—to trust their gifts, trust their teammates, and commit fully to the present moment. He spoke candidly about failure, reminding them that “the past is the past” and “all we have is the present.” In a message that resonated deeply, he shared:

“Life is going to throw dirt on you; shake it off, step up, get ready for the next play.”

Most importantly, he emphasized the power of unity. Quoting St. Thomas Aquinas—“Each of us strengthens all of us”—Father Hagan reminded the team that while their roles may differ, their status is the same. Every player matters. Every contribution counts. Success, in basketball and in life, is something we build together.

Reflecting on Father Hagan’s visit, senior co-captain Maddy Kydd shared that what resonated most was his reminder that “God gave everyone a gift.”

“Sometimes we get so caught up in expectations,” she said, “that we forget the unique gift God gave us and feel like we have to force ourselves to be someone we’re not.”

She also appreciated his encouragement not to fear failure. “We’re often so afraid of failing that it stops us from trying or taking opportunities in the first place,” she said.

His message, Maddy explained, brought to mind a quote she tries to live by from Martin Luther King Jr.: “Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”

“It felt like Father Hagan was encouraging us to trust God, trust our gifts, and have the courage to step forward—even when the outcome isn’t certain.”

Through Wisdom Wednesdays, Merion Mercy Basketball continues to form not only strong athletes, but confident, faith-filled young women—ready for the next play, on the court and beyond.