CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- Elle Pechan's journey as a student-athlete at Loras College has been a testament to her resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Competing in the American Rivers Conference (A-R-C) has not only allowed her to showcase her skills on the golf course but has also shaped her into the person she is today.
For Pechan, being a student-athlete in the A-R-C means embodying the values of commitment, loyalty, and integrity.
"This conference has allowed me to gain mental toughness, and I have also been able to learn more about myself as an athlete and a student," Pechan says.
As a golfer, Pechan knows that the sport requires a strong mind. She has faced countless challenges on the course, from being stuck in the tall grass to finding herself in a sand trap. In those moments, when her confidence wavers, she gives herself a pep talk to regain her focus and execute the next shot.
Pechan believes that this process of overcoming obstacles on the course is a reflection of life off the course as well.
"There are days I didn't prepare the best for a quiz or wish I would've gone in to get more help — these moments are like being in a sand trap. I just remind myself that I am fortunate enough to go to school and to put my best effort into the task at hand," she explains.
"Once it is over, I look back and realize how I could have prepared better. Life is about learning constantly, and that is something so true with being a student-athlete."
Support from coaches and professors has been instrumental in Pechan's journey. Her professors have shown understanding and flexibility when she needs to miss class for a match. But Pechan emphasizes that this relationship is successful because of open communication from both parties. On the course, her coach has been a source of motivation, offering words of encouragement and helping her stay focused.
"Loras College is so good about giving recognition to all sports, sports events, and athletes that are exceeding substantially," Pechan says.
"Being a part of a campus that shows so much love and support to their athletes is one of the best feelings."
One of Pechan's proudest accomplishments during her time in the A-R-C was when her golf team secured second place at the Indianola golf meet. The team's success was a testament to the hard work they had put in during the winter months, and it served as a perfect ending to the spring season.
Looking ahead, Pechan is eager to see what the fall has in store for her and her team.
As Pechan continues her journey in the A-R-C, she hopes to leave behind a legacy of determination, loyalty, and kindness. She recognizes that golf is a mentally and physically demanding sport, and it takes a strong will to push oneself to improve. Pechan believes that being loyal to oneself and one's team is crucial in creating a positive environment.
"Also, loyalty to yourself allows you to reflect honestly on your performance and realize what needs to improve," she adds.
In addition, Pechan emphasizes the importance of kindness, even in the midst of competition. She encourages athletes to show good sportsmanship and respect to everyone, including their opponents.
"We all want to do good and succeed, but we must never lose sight of the fact that we are competing against people," Pechan states.
As a biochemistry major with a business administration minor, Pechan understands the importance of balancing academics and athletics. Her professors have been supportive, providing the flexibility she needs to excel in both areas. Pechan is grateful for the opportunities she has had to grow as a student and an athlete and credits the A-R-C for shaping her into the person she is today.
In a broader sense, Pechan's student-athlete journey has been a transformative experience. She acknowledges that it has been challenging at times, but the lessons she has learned about herself and the people around her have been invaluable. Pechan encourages others to embrace the ups and downs of being a student-athlete and to never lose sight of the privilege and joy of competing at a high level.
"Just take a breath, reset, regroup, and go out there and keep fighting, keep competing, and keep giving it your all. That's all you can do at the end of the day," Pechan advises.
Pechan's story is a testament to the impact that the A-R-C can have on student-athletes. Through resilience, leadership, and continuous learning, she has thrived both on the golf course and in the classroom. Her dedication to the values of commitment, loyalty, and kindness serves as an inspiration to all those who have the privilege of competing in the A-R-C.
Don't forget to become a fan of the American Rivers Conference on Facebook @AmericanRiversConference, X (Twitter) @AmerRiversConf, and Instagram @AmericanRiversConference.
About the American Rivers Conference
Nationally respected for excellence in NCAA Division III athletics, the American Rivers Conference (A-R-C) has a tradition dating back to its founding in 1922 as the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Association and adopted its current name in 2018 to reflect its strong Iowa roots and growing regional footprint. The A-R-C is a collaborative community that champions the holistic development of student-athletes, uniting member institutions in a shared commitment to academic achievement, athletic distinction, and leadership.
The A-R-C is home to nine full-time member institutions: Buena Vista University, Central College, Coe College, University of Dubuque, Loras College, Luther College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Simpson College, and Wartburg College. Luther College has announced its departure from the conference, effective at the conclusion of the 2025–26 academic year.
