CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – As a Division III student-athlete, Grace Coates enjoys the opportunity to play competitive soccer while focusing on her academics and preparing for her future career.

The senior women’s soccer student-athlete at Central College has taken full advantage of her time at the school, and while she has one final season remaining, she’s had countless memorable experiences.

For Coates, the path to Central was a journey that started by staying close to home in Iowa.

“I knew I wanted to be close to home, so I wanted to choose a school in Iowa,” said Coates. “As soon as I met with the team and coaches, I knew I wanted to be at Central. Like I said earlier, the team was so welcoming. Central felt like a place I could call home for the next four years.”

The American Rivers Conference also played a huge role in Coates’ decision to attend Central. As one of the best conferences in the country, the opportunity to play against premier competition was something Coates didn’t take for granted.

“I love competing in the American Rivers Conference,” said Coates. “What I love most is that I can focus on my education while still playing competitive soccer. I am able to be well prepared for my future career while playing the sport I love most.”

A TRIP TO THE NETHERLANDS
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Coates has also enjoyed the many experiences she’s had with her teammates, and one that stands out is a trip to the Netherlands over spring break.

The Dutch soccer trip was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Coates and her teammates, and it was a chance to learn more about the sport they love.

“It was very cool to compete in another country and show everyone our brand of soccer,” said Coates. “We were able to learn a lot from the teams we played, and the whole team became way closer during the trip. It was an experience I will never forget!”

In addition to soccer, Coates is also involved with FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) at Central. As her Central career comes to an end, Coates knows she’ll have countless memories to look back on, but it’s the time spent with friends and teammates that she’ll cherish the most.

“Not going to lie, I might shed a tear when I step off that field for the last time,” said Coates. “The bond I have with my teammates is something I will never take for granted.”

PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE
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While Coates is making the most of her time at Central, she’s also focused on her future career. As a kinesiology major, Coates aspires to become a registered dietitian, and she’s already looking ahead to graduate school.

“I am studying to become a registered dietitian,” said Coates. “After Central College, I plan to attend grad school to get my masters in dietetics. I would love to work with athletes in the future.”

The opportunity to work with athletes as a registered dietitian would be a dream come true for Coates, and her experience as a Division III student-athlete has prepared her for whatever the future holds.

“I think the biggest lesson I have learned is that I need to fully trust in the Lord’s plan,” said Coates. “Especially as an athlete, things aren’t going to always go as planned. Injuries, losses, etc. are bound to happen. Recognizing that everything happens for a reason has helped me tremendously.”

As Coates prepares for her final season, she’s excited for the challenges that lie ahead. She’s also thankful for the countless memories she’s made along the way, and she’s hopeful for the opportunity to cap off her Central career with a memorable season.

ONE FINAL SEASON
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As one of the best conferences in the country, the American Rivers Conference will provide Coates with numerous challenges during her final season. However, she knows those challenges will only make her stronger as a student-athlete.

Whether it’s representing Central or the American Rivers Conference, Coates is proud of her experience as a Division III student-athlete. She’s also thankful for the opportunity to compete in a conference that provides student-athletes with an opportunity to excel in the classroom and on the field.

As she looks ahead to her final season, Coates is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come her way. She’s also thankful for the countless memories she’s made along the way, and she’s hopeful for the opportunity to cap off her Central career with a memorable season.

“God has blessed me with so many amazing teammates and coaches,” said Coates, “I am so thankful for the love and support I have received at Central. Best four years of my life, so far. I can’t wait to see what the future holds!”