The Beacon: Female Athlete of the Week 9/1-9/4

Why Courtney Stanley was selected: Courtney saved ten shots over two games. She helped her team to a 1-1 tie against Penn State Berks on Sept. 1 and a 2-1 victory over Muhlenberg on Sept. 4. Congratulations, Courtney.

Name: Courtney Stanley

Year: Junior

Majors: Early Childhood/Special Education

Minor: Reading and Psychology

Hometown: Hamilton, NJ

High School:  Steinert HS

Position: Goalie

Driving force for your decision to come to Wilkes?

Wilkes gave me a smaller community where I felt I wouldn’t get lost in the crowd. I could know my professors and classmates personally whether it was in the classroom or around campus.  Knowing I was able to continue my soccer career made the decision easier.

Post graduation plans in terms of a career?

Following graduation, I hope to become a teacher with my focus in Special Education. In the education field, I hope to make a difference and give each child an opportunity for equal success. Their success is the best reward.

What came first? The chicken or the egg?

The egg.

Hopes for this season as a Colonel?

I have high hopes the we make it to the MAC championship and finally win after being so close the past few years. I feel the hard work we have put in will finally pay off.

When/Why did you first begin playing?

I started playing rec soccer at the age of three with my dad as my first coach and by the age of seven I was playing competitively.  I watched my brother play soccer for as long as I can remember (I went to my first soccer game at 4 weeks old) and I have always wanted to be just like him. Once I was old enough to understand the importance of the game, it became a lifestyle.

Favorite building on campus?

My favorite building would be the SUB. When I’m there, I am mostly likely getting lunch with my friends who I don’t see throughout the day and there is good chance we are causing a scene.

If you had to choose one thing about your program that you could improve, what would it be?

I would improve the number of fans that come out to the games. This past week the wrestling team created a mini fan section and I truly believe it boosted our playing to beat Muhlenberg. I think it’s important for all the teams to support each other along with the campus community.

Other interests or hobbies off of the field?

In my free time, there is a 99% chance I am watching Netflix with my roommates or playing with my rabbit DJ.

Most influential person in your life?

The most influential person in my life is my dad who just survived a heart attack this past week. He beat the odds and is now a part of the 24% who survive. Five days after the heart attack, he was on the sidelines watching me play and cheering me on with my mom right beside him. They are both my biggest fans.

A quote you live your life by?

“I was not built to break”

What does “Be Colonel” mean to you?

“Be Colonel” means representing the university positively on and off campus. The university creates a community where everyone can come together as one under the Colonel symbol.

Coke or Pepsi?

Pepsi

Anyone to give a shout-out too?

The 31 girls I spend at least an hour with each day along with Coach Sumoski and Elliot.

    Editor’s note: This year’s Athlete of the Week will be merit-based. Don’t agree with our selection? Let us know on Twitter: @WilkesBeacon

     Additionally, at the end of the academic year, we will post a reader poll to crown at “Athlete of the Year”.

     Full qualification critera and more information can be found on our website: www.thewilkesbeacon.com