Jessica Rusconi is an outfielder on Whitworth’s softball team. She is a political science major who plans to work in local government before attending law school. We asked her about her experience as a student-athlete:
“Upsetting George Fox my freshman year has to be one of my top highlights [of my career]. We eliminated them as the hosts and top seed at the Northwest Conference Tournament and went on to play in the championship game. We lost to them a few times during our season, but didn’t give up and won when it mattered most!
“During our season, we typically practice four days per week and play four games per weekend, with our off-day on Mondays. We have weights on Tuesdays and Thursdays after practice, which is crucial for injury prevention in season while maintaining the gains from offseason… I serve on our Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), which has been such a highlight of my time here – working with athletes from other teams who are all passionate about this community and leaving Whitworth and our teams better than we found it. I would say that’s what makes Whitworth Athletics special: the desire to make an impact.
“Ron Pyle is someone who has made a personal impact on me. He serves as our team’s mentor and emphasizes that relationships are the most important thing in life. Softball won’t last forever, but relationships do. The small ways I can serve others and build up those around me matters. Ron sets an amazing example of being present and walking with people through whatever season of life they’re in.
“It’s bittersweet to think that I’m in my final year of my undergrad and final year playing softball… but right now, I’m trusting God’s plan, working on being where my feet are, and enjoying every second!”
Worth a Look 