Wittenberg University Athletics is celebrating the Senior classes from each of the fall sports programs that missed out on their Senior Day experience. Today we highlight the three members of the Wittenberg women's volleyball team and hear about what they loved most about being a Wittenberg Tiger and more.
Gabi Hancock
Hometown: Vincennes, Indiana
What is your favorite memory from being a student-athlete at Wittenberg?
My favorite memory would be going to the National Championship my freshman year in 2017. The whole week was something I have never experienced before. We were treated like royalty and all the bonding/memories made with my teammates was amazing. I also just love being apart of the Women's Volleyball team because the girls are amazing teammates and friends.
What do you love most about being a Wittenberg Tiger?
I love how warm and caring everyone is on campus. Every person here wants to push me to succeed and has shaped me into who I am today.
Outside of Athletics, who is the one campus staff or faculty member that had the most impact on you during your time at Wittenberg?
Dr. Little. She has been my professor for many psychology classes and I have loved every single one of her classes. She really creates a connection with each student and genuinely cares for everyone in her classes. She goes above and beyond and has helped me in numerous ways.
What is one piece of advice you would like to leave for the underclassmen or any recruits looking to become a part of your team in the future?
Have fun! Push yourself to get better every day, but do not be too hard on yourself. Being apart of this team is a once in a lifetime chance, so soak in every single moment. With the blink of an eye it will be over before you know it. Let yourself be open with these girls and you will not regret it.
Why should a High School Prospect choose Wittenberg?
Every professor, student, coach, faculty etc. genuinely cares for you and wants you to do the best you can. It is such a loving campus, and everyone here become a part of your family. You get so many opportunities you would not be able to get if you were on another bigger campus. It is truly an extraordinary place.
After graduation, how will you embrace the school's motto "Having Light, We Pass it on to Others"?
By pursuing my degree in Social Work to help kids who are underprivileged within their communities.
Cora Lutz
Hometown: Celina, Ohio
What is your favorite memory from being a student-athlete at Wittenberg?
My favorite memory was being ranked the #1 team in the country my freshman year and making a long tournament run all the way to the National Championship match! We were the national runner up and nothing can beat the feeling and atmosphere of making it that far in the tournament.
One of my best memories on campus is finding all 15 silver tigers!
What do you love most about being a Wittenberg Tiger?
I love that I have been able to focus and succeed academically, all while being a devoted athlete. Wittenberg has given me friends for a lifetime and a place to call home for the past four years.
Outside of Athletics, who is the one campus staff or faculty member that had the most impact on you during your time at Wittenberg?
Dr. Collier in the Biology department has made a huge impact on me during my time at Witt. He became my professor, advisor, and one of my biggest supporters. He was always been there for me during my academic career and I could always count on him to be at some of our biggest volleyball matches. He always helped me succeed as a student-athlete.
What is one piece of advice you would like to leave for the underclassmen or any recruits looking to become a part of your team in the future?
Wittenberg is an amazing place. Make it your home, explore all around campus, be a friend to everyone, and enjoy every minute. This is the time to make so many new memories and friends, so take on every opportunity and get out of your comfort zone.
Why should a High School Prospect choose Wittenberg?
All administrators, faculty, and staff, have one goal for every student- for you to succeed. If you want to not only be a part of the amazing athletic programs but excel in the classroom as well, Wittenberg is the place for you.
After graduation, how will you embrace the school's motto "Having Light, We Pass it on to Others"?
After graduation, I will be gaining experience in dentistry and applying to Dental School! I will carry on my light in my studies and spread it to all of those I meet along the way.
Lexie Weithman
Hometown: Lewis Center, Ohio
What is your favorite memory as a student-athlete at Wittenberg?
My favorite memories are competing for the national championship in 2017 and traveling to Italy with my team. Both were great experiences where I met new people from across the US and from other countries while playing competitive volleyball.
What do you love most about being a Wittenberg Tiger?
I love the bond that we all share as students and student-athletes. The culture across campus and the passion people have for athletics is something I've never experienced anywhere else. I wouldn't trade my four years here for anything.
Outside of Athletics, who is the one campus staff or faculty member that had the most impact on you during your time at Wittenberg?
The nursing program in general has made an impact on me by paving the way for student athletes such as myself to be able to conquer a hard major while playing sports competitively.
What is one piece of advice you would like to leave for the underclassmen or any recruits looking to become a part of your team in the future?
My advice to underclassmen is to give your 100% in everything you do. When you pursue your passions with hard work and grit the rewards are endless. Being a part of this program has shown me that.
Why should a High School Prospect choose Wittenberg?
The culture across campus is unmatched. People find family here, whether it's your roommates, teammates, classmates, or faculty and staff. You are also able to pursue whatever your interests are. The sky is the limit.
After graduation, how will you embrace the school's motto "Having Light, We Pass it on to Others"?
I am a nurse and will embody that statement into my every day at work. I will use my experiences here to care for people the best I can.