To make it to the Sweet Sixteen, the York College Spartan Women beat the Virginia Wesleyan Marlins, one of the best teams in the nation 1-0. Laura Jackson, a Virginia Wesleyan Senior Midfielder and three-time Variety Letter winner, took the time to write the following letter to the York College team after the Marlins’ defeat.
Letter
Coach Sterner,
I just wanted to take a minute to congratulate you and your team and wish you the best of luck. Forgive me if this email seems to sporadic. As I'm sure you can understand, it is hard to swallow the emotions running through me. Your team has a fire, an excitement and a passion about them that all teams should strive for. Although I think I am still somewhat in denial, it hurts to come to the realization that my college career has ended. However, if it had to happen, which it did, I am grateful at least that it was by a team who loves the game. Your team has a hard challenge in front of them. Hopefully they will bring the energy and urgency they brought this past weekend because with that they are truly a force to battle with. You've got a team of competitors and that is all I could have asked for in my last game- a battle. So, although the end stings, I appreciate the hard work your team showed. There is nothing better than a true competition on the soccer field between two great teams.
I will be rooting for you, please give your players my best.
Laura Jackson, VWC #20
Commentary
Commented Spartans' Assistant Coach, Al Chesnavage, “Laura was one of their best players and for her to take the time to write this letter says a lot for her as a truly classy player. It shows great character and is a true reflection of her team and coaching staff. I told my girls that there is no greater compliment that you could receive then a statement like this from your opponent. As coaches, this is the message you hope to send to your players and opponents. That is what this is really all about and the big reason I love to coach.”