Blue and Gold Newsletter

Lea Peterson '20

Field Hockey - Biology and Chemistry Major - Upton, MA

image of Lea Peterson looking to pass the ball in a field hockey match
Lea Peterson '20

What is it like to be an RWU student-athlete?

When I decided to play field hockey for Roger Williams University, I knew that I would have a demanding schedule, especially with my major and honors program involvement, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Being a part of something that is greater than yourself is so meaningful. When I came into preseason my freshman year, I was not only able to adjust very easily but I also got a whole new group of amazing girls in my life that I was able to rely on for anything, on or off the field. As an athlete in the honors program, I was able to bring new perspectives and ideas into the classroom from my experiences on the field that I would have otherwise been unable to do.

What experience or event at RWU has been the most enjoyable/memorable so far?

Despite how busy I am in season, it is my favorite time of the year. Playing the sport I love with the people I love is such a rewarding and positive experience. Some of my favorite memories at RWU have been on the field hockey field with my team, whether it was a game-winning goal or coach letting us play handball during a practice. There have been so many enjoyable memories at this school so far, that it would be impossible for me to pick one. But the majority of my favorite memories here so far have centered around field hockey. The spring concert and carnival during second semester are pretty cool too.

How have you handled the academic and athletic demands?

During season, I am extremely busy, but because of this, I have to be on a tight schedule. This means I don’t even have time to procrastinate if I am to do well in both my classes and my sport. I find that getting my work done early and being engaged while I am in class helps me stay ahead of my workload, and while I am on the field I focus on only that, not my surrounding stressors. Practice and games are a time for me to take a break and focus on something that I love.

What are you most looking forward to this year on the field hockey team? 

This year, we had 10 new incoming freshmen, who meshed very well with our team very quickly. I believe we have a newfound intensity and desire to have the skill we possess as a team to reflect in our ranking in the CCC. I think RWU Field Hockey is a force to be reckoned with, and we are ready to show this to both the conference and even to each other. We love each other and the sport so much, and I am really looking forward to seeing all of our hard work pay off.

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