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 Abby Watson, a track & field athlete from the University of Charleston.

Dear Track and Field,

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I cannot thank you enough for all that you have done for me. Unlike most of my fellow competitors, I didn’t meet you until high school. Since then, we’ve never really separated. Now, you and I both know there have been others. But you and I also know that when I was with you, I was with you.
You were always the most honest with me. The people you put in my life didn’t grab me, manipulate me, demean me or bully me. You have a tape and clocks, and they don’t lie!

You were also always there for me. Even when things happened that crushed my soul and made me question “why me?” When people I admired showed who they really were, so did you. You welcomed me, you pushed me, you made me know that anything I got from you, I had to earn. You made me a better person. You constantly introduced me to the most kind, incredible people. You brought my grandparents and family to watch me compete.

Now, here I am after 8 years with you. I have state championships, state records, a bachelor’s degree, I was a student senator, I am halfway through my master’s degree, school records, a conference championship, and have a great job lined up and waiting. None of this would have happened without you. I know I owe you. But the great thing about you is that you don’t think I owe you. You don’t keep a tab. In that way, believe me, as one who has been with others, you are unique.

I’ve gotta leave you soon. I’ll always love you and be watching you.
 
All My Love,
Abby Watson
University of Charleston