Northwestern University Athletics
Dear Northwestern: Kelsey Gradwohl
6/21/2016 2:42:00 PM | General, Field Hockey, David G. Kabiller NU for Life Program, Academic Services & Student Development
Dear Northwestern,
In my last few weeks on campus, I began to wonder what my life would look like had I chosen to attend another college. What scared me the most was the thought of the people that I may never had met. The people at Northwestern have made my time here truly wonderful and it's difficult to thank them adequately. It's especially hard to describe what my team has meant to me.
However, there was one moment in my time here that can begin to do so.
In the spring of my freshman year I lost my father in a car accident. After the memorial service I awkwardly spoke with friends and family, unsure of how to conduct myself, and I'm sure they felt the same. After a few minutes I saw a large group of gray polo's walking towards me and I thought to myself, "What strange group of people would wear matching grey Under Armour polo's to a wake?"
And then it hit me: The Northwestern field hockey team.
My coaches and teammates had rented one of our buses and drove five hours on a Thursday night to be with me when I needed them the most. And of course, in true NUFH fashion, they were all matching.
As they reached me, my tension immediately dissipated and I burst into laughter. In that moment I realized that this team was far more than just an assembly of young women with a knack for field hockey. They are my best friends, my support system, and - as corny as it may sound - they are my family.
When I look back on this experience, I will remember the wins and the Championships, but what I'll cherish the most are the people that I have had the privilege of meeting.
I'd like to thank my coaches for demonstrating time and time again the care they have for us as players and as people. Additionally, I'd like to thank the training staff, strength and conditioning staff, and academic services for making sure I met my goals on the field and in the classroom.
Lastly, I'd like to thank all my teammates, for four years of laughter, victory and love. These girls have helped shape me into who I am today and I look forward to the years to come with these women by my side. I am so grateful for my time here and wouldn't trade it for anything.
Sincerely,
Kelsey Gradwohl, Field Hockey
Players Mentioned
M
/ Field HockeyLacrosse - NCAA Quarterfinals vs Colorado Postgame Press Conference
Thursday, May 14
Lacrosse - NCAA Tournament 2nd Round vs JMU Postgame Press Conference (5/10/26)
Sunday, May 10
Baseball - 'Cats Ground Redbirds in 7-1 Midweek Victory (5/5/26)
Tuesday, May 05
Softball - Marina Mason Tosses One-Hit Shutout, 'Cats Claim Series Win vs. Minnesota (5/3/26)
Monday, May 04
