Today we end our celebration of the NCAA Division III week. The University of Mary Washington plays in the Capital Athletic Conference and competes within the conference against Christopher Newport University, York College, Wesley College, Southern Virginia University, Frostburg State University, Marymount University, St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Penn State Harrisburg, and Salisbury University. Last year UMW was recognized as the top athletic program in the conference as we earned the Richard C. Cook All-Sports Trophy. Go Eagles! Our last featured student-athlete this week is Emily Atkinson, a junior lacrosse player. From Towson, Maryland, Emily is majoring in English:
“While reflecting on my decision to come to Mary Washington, I found it difficult to pinpoint only a few reasons that make this University so great; the question should be, rather, why wouldn’t you choose to come to UMW? From the highly competitive classroom setting to the lacrosse field, UMW has provided me with the resources to not only pursue my passions, but it has equipped me with the tools to excel in them. With the help of dedicated professors willing to accommodate my needs as a student-athlete, and committed coaches who challenge my physical and mental strength every day, I have learned that there is no such thing as being pleased with ‘satisfactory.’ Here at UMW, every day promises greatness. Whether it is in the classroom, on the lacrosse field, or as a person in the community, UMW instills in all of its students that hard work reaps the greatest rewards. Our nationally ranked athletic teams, anticipated theatrical performances, and rigorous academic courses speak volumes of the hard work of UMW students, just to name a few. In the words of Maya Angelou, ‘Nothing will work unless you do.’ As a UMW student and member of the women’s lacrosse team, I will continue to work hard, pursue my passions to the fullest of my ability, and make our Eagle family proud.”
We hope you have learned a few things this week about UMW student-athletes, NCAA’s Division III, the Learfield Sports Directors’ Cup, and the Capital Athletic Conference. Please thank YOUR student-athletes for representing the University of Mary Washington with integrity and honor in the classroom and in their chosen sport. They represent us well!
IT’S A GREAT DAY TO BE AN EAGLE!