In 2018-19, the Mountain East Conference began its "Dear Sport" initiative where student-athletes in the conference were encouraged to write a letter to their sport. The initiative provides the opportunity for student-athletes to express in their own words the impact that sports has played in shaping them throughout their lives. 

Click here to view all letters posted throughout the year. 

Below is a letter from Marlee Coleman, a two-time MEC Defensive Player of the Year.

Dear Soccer,
 
Home. That is the first word that comes to mind when I look back at the past seventeen years of my life with you. I have dedicated countless hours to you and despite all of the tough times we have been through, I would not have had it any other way. You are more than just a sport, soccer, you have taught me so many life lessons that I will carry for the rest of my life. Each time I step across the white painted line, I know I am exactly where I belong. I know I will always feel at peace with the field I have grown so close to -- my home.

Family. Soccer, you have blessed me with the greatest teammates I could ever ask for. From the pain after losing a championship game in penalty kicks, to the joy of beating the number one team in the conference, my teammates and I have shared so many unforgettable experiences that have only brought us closer together. You have shown me the importance of playing even harder when I think I have no more to give because I am not only playing for myself, but also for the girls I am so grateful to call my family.

Dream. Eleven years ago there was a ten year old girl who dreamed of playing soccer at the college level. I would go to numerous college games hoping that one day I would be in their shoes. I would watch my older brother hoping that one day I would be just as talented as him. I would schedule sessions with a personal soccer trainer hoping that one day he would help me achieve my aspiration of playing at the next level. I would do whatever it took. Fast forward to the present and not only did I achieve my goal, but playing at the college level has surpassed all my expectations.

Soccer has been my love. Soccer has been my life. You are no longer a dream. 
 
Marlee Coleman
University of Charleston