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 Crystal Carrillo, a softball player from Wheeling Jesuit.

Dear Softball,

Thank you for giving the girl from South Central Los Angeles an opportunity to travel the U.S. and play the sport she has grown to love for the past 12 years. Growing up in a family full of baseball fanatics it was only a matter of time before it was my turn to play baseball. I started playing tee ball at 4 years old in Baumholder, Germany where my mom was my head coach, and then naturally turned to baseball like everyone else in my family. When I was 8 years old my Nino, my godfather, decided it was time to try softball. Before then I have never heard of the sport. I kept thinking to myself, “Softball, Softball? Does that really mean the ball is softer? That’s interesting.” I remember my very first practice as a pitcher, I thought, “Wow, this is a very bright and big ball. It’s definitely not the same as a baseball.” I started off with a good wind up, and then of course, I threw over the top like a baseball pitcher. I quickly learned that softball was just like baseball, just at a much faster pace. This sport has taken me through a lot of ups and downs. I have great memories from game winning hits, traveling to new states, and most definitely endless laughs and memories with sisters I have made throughout my career.

Softball has taught me the importance of perseverance. No matter how many times this sport has brought me down I have learned the best part is always getting right back up. I’ve had my fair share of injuries and I know they are natural and are definitely going to happen in this game but the process to get back into the game is so much sweeter every time. No one likes to sit out and watch the game they love from the side lines but it makes us appreciate every moment we get to step on the field, and never take this sport for granted. Thanks to softball I have traveled from California to Odessa, TX and now almost across the country to Wheeling, WV.  

Thank you softball for showing me that I can push myself beyond the limits and succeed in everything I put my mind to. Thank you for teaching me the importance of being a team player and a leader on and off the field. You have been the constant thing in my life that allows me to relieve stress and also cause it, many many times. Thank you for taking me out of the busy city and allowing me to slow down and enjoy the game I have so much passion for. The 8 year-old playing on the Baby Bratz at Lynwood Park is beyond proud and blessed to have come this far and thankful for every opportunity given to her! THANK YOU SOFTBALL!
 
Forever grateful,
Crystal Carrillo #17
Wheeling Jesuit