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 Becca Colbert, a senior soccer player from Shepherd University.

Dear Soccer,
 
To put into words everything that you have given me is difficult. All of the friendships, lessons, and heartbreaks that I have received because of you is overwhelming. You have given me bonds with friends that I will have my entire life, teammates I now consider my family, and girls that I would trust my life with. All of which is thanks to you.

The lessons that I have received from you are some of the most important lessons that will stick with me for the rest of my life. These range from learning, often the hard way, how to manage my time and how important it is to do the little things that are often overlooked. All of which is thanks to you.

Lastly, the heartbreaks. Whether it was an injury, or feeling like I couldn’t continue because of something that at the time seemed so huge, but now is something so small. Not only were you often the cause of these heartbreaks, you were the cure. You pushed me to overcome every injury because I wanted to get back to doing what I loved. You pushed me to continue, even when I didn’t think I could, because I knew that no matter how awful, or how hard it got, without you in my life, I wouldn’t ever be the person I aspired to be. I am the person I am today because of everything you have given me. I am so grateful that I have had you in my life for so long.

Thank you for everything, Soccer.
 
Xoxo,
Becca Colbert #18
Shepherd University