Rachel Pope is a senior on the women's basketball team at Judson University.  She is from Newark, Illinois, and has also played volleyball and softball in her time at Judson. 

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By Leslie Talley

Judson Sports Information Student Assistant

"A team is a true gift from God," Senior Rachel Pope begins. After playing totals of 16 years of softball, 10 years of volleyball, nine years of basketball, and even cheerleading for a year, Pope is definitely qualified to understand what it takes to be on a team.

She especially appreciates the friendliness and fun-loving attitude of the Judson University teams. Every team has a unique feel with a different blend of women, but playing well and for Christ continues to be a key focus. Pope has participated at Judson for three years in softball, two in volleyball, and one in basketball. She admits that she has been strengthened in her understanding of the heightened level of collegiate sports. Advancing her skills is something she strives for in maintaining excellence.

"I try to always think of my teammates before myself, in and out of the game. I know that any accomplishments I have are truly not of my own work," Rachel declares. "Jesus led by true sacrifice and selflessness. I desire to be like that."

Pope has a wide understanding of the athletics at Judson. When asked what spiritual aspects she appreciates most about her team at Judson University, she gave three examples: "The basketball team rotates devotionals prior to every single practice and has a guest staff or faculty member come in for the home games," she begins. "Softball always prays for the team's requests after practice and games, and volleyball has a central theme verse for the year," she concludes.

Some lessons that have been and remain key for Rachel includes the importance of "teamwork, sacrifice, leadership, serving, hard work, perseverance, and practicality." These foundational truths are able to easily be implemented in school, the workplace, and life; not just athletics.

When it comes to favorite memories in Pope's time at Judson University, she says, "Wow - where to start? Going to Arizona and Florida for softball was really nice. [We got to] enjoy the beautiful weather and get to play outside." After thinking further on the posed question, Rachel adds, "However, one of my absolute favorite memories was when Deb Leganski, Leah Hoffman, Liz Erickson, and I roomed together in Arizona. We had a ridiculous time with lots of laughs and stargazing!"

Although Rachel's college career is almost done and a new chapter of getting married is about to unfold, she can take all these memories and lessons with her into the exciting future.