Together. Even When We're Apart.
The start of the fall season is always a time for optimism and opportunity. It might just come in different forms this year. Student-athletes usually enter the first weeks of practice with the hope that the training hours put in during the off season will show through during competition. This year, for the student-athletes we have welcomed back to campus, the start of the season is an opportunity to find positivity and normalcy in being with teammates during a time when being apart has become our new reality.
Despite the challenges that Wellesley, PERA, and all of us have faced over the past six months, I was reminded of that optimism and opportunity when I watched our student-athletes practice for the first time earlier this week. In the face of the pain and isolation that has come with this pandemic, teammates came together, challenged each other, and laughed during water breaks. I also reflected on our juniors and seniors, many of whom are unable to be on campus, but I took comfort in knowing they were meeting their new teammates virtually and training at home in anticipation of their next opportunity to join their teams in person.
Finally, I was reminded of all of you, who would otherwise have returned to the same fields and courts I was watching to cheer on our teams or to see your own teammates during Homecoming weekend or an alumnae event this fall. Like our teams training on campus, we’re together in our optimism for the future, our pride in Wellesley and the hope that we will all have the opportunity to share in that together again soon. Like our juniors and seniors studying at home, I hope that you will take the time to connect with the teammates, coaches and friends who made your Wellesley experience special.
Stay well and Go Blue.
Bethany Ellis
Director of Athletics
Chair of Physical Education and Recreation
|
