Rachel Leck: A Field, A Ball, Great Memories

Sydney, NS - CBU's second-year forward Rachel Leck (Pickering, ON) finished her second year as a CAPER on a high note. She, along with her teammates was able to capture another AUS women's soccer title and a National Bronze Medal. Leck scored 4 goals during the regular season and also scored the game-winning goal in the bronze medal match at the national championships in Ottawa. An incredible year to be sure.

Prior to the season Leck, a BA student took advantage of an incredible opportunity to take her soccer skills abroad. She was able to travel to both Panama and Mexico with a group of Canadian players to play some high-level soccer and help the up and coming soccer kids in those two Latin American countries. "We played teams consisting of different skill levels, kid camps, high schools, semi-pro and even the Panama national team," said Leck. "It was just a unique experience to play high-level soccer in a different country and meet so many different players from different backgrounds."

The trip was more than just soccer for Rachel and her group. The trip also gave the young women a chance to share stories with each other and reinforced that life is bigger than what happens on the pitch. "I appreciated the authenticity and variety of everyone's experiences off the pitch," commented Leck. Topics of conversation ranged from talking about faith, overcoming expectations and injuries in sports. "I appreciate trips like this because it shows that regardless of background, culture, or language, people are people. I'll be the first to admit that my spanish speaking abilities aren't very good but putting in the effort to communicate and connect with people speaks volumes. One of the best parts of the trip for me was putting on soccer camps at local orphanages. I really enjoyed connecting with people at a genuine level. It was simple: a field, a ball and the mentality of making great memories.