Courtney Wagner Shares Her #WhyMessiah Experience

1/10/2017 11:00:00 AM

What are the names of the rest of your family and where do you fall among siblings?
My parents are Michael and Jill Wagner. I have two older sisters Aubrey and Annie, and then an older brother Christian. I am the youngest.
 
Why did you come to Messiah and/or why do you love being at Messiah?
I came to Messiah because it had a Lacrosse team that made me better on and off the field, and a community that valued God.
 
Why did you choose your specific major here at Messiah? Have you enjoyed your study in it?
I am in the MSOT 3+2 program with Thomas Jefferson. I have enjoyed studying in it, although it can be very challenging at times.
 
What is your dream job for after college?
Open my own outpatient clinic with state of the art occupational therapy facilities.
 
If you could have dinner with one person in history, who would it be and why?
Albert Einstein. I would love to see how long I could keep up with his inquisitive and intellectual mind.
 
How do you balance your academic work and your commitment to your sport?
I actually manage my time so much better being an athlete. I plan accordingly and find that I am more productive because I know I need to get things done when I am in season, otherwise I sit around and become lazy.
 
Who has most influenced your life and why?
My father- he was a student athlete also and now has become a pastor. He always has wise words to say and encourages me to keep working hard with everything I do.
 
What is one thing about Coach Greer that those outside your team may not know?
She probably could give you killer advice on any aspect of your life.
 
What is special about your coaching staff and teammates, and how would you explain that to a recruit or someone outside of the program?
My coaching staff invests in our team and shows that they really care, I never got to experience that in high school. My teammates are all just goofy and we create a community that is both fun and hard-working.
 
What is one of your favorite team traditions and why?
I only experienced this once, but the dance battles on our spring break trips. Can't wait for this spring!
 
Do you have a pre-game ritual or habit? If so, what is it?
I always have a good dance in the locker room with some teammates and then do a handshake before each game with my roomie Annika Johnsen
 
What is the toughest part of being a collegiate student-athlete? How do you live or grow through this at Messiah?
I would say managing your time well. I'm constantly challenged to manage it especially when we are away for a game.
 
Have you experienced an obstacle (e.g., injury) that you've had to overcome and would be willing to share? What has helped you overcome this obstacle and how have your coaches, teammates, and friends helped with this?
Freshmen year I had to wear a boot for a sprained ankle all throughout January right before season. My teammates are the bomb, and kept encouraging me and reminded me that I'll be back on the field as soon as possible
 
What advice would you give to younger student-athletes looking to play a sport in college?
Work hard, and manage your time well. Invest in your team!
 
If you had to answer the question #WhyMessiah what would you say?
At Messiah you are given the opportunity to work hard and play hard with some of your closest friends that are also your teammates, all while giving glory to God in the process.
 

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