The season of fall symbolizes new beginnings in many ways. For Women’s Soccer captain Laura Bradshaw, the new school year represents the end of an era.
Bradshaw has been playing for the Golden Eagle Women’s soccer team since the start of her freshman year in 2010 and will graduate next semester. She has high hopes for her last season. “With this being my last year at JBU and playing soccer, I absolutely anticipate the best,” said Bradshaw.
As much as winning is important to Bradshaw, she has goals for her team that go beyond the field. Senior Co-Captain Whitney Brannan agrees. “I want us to grow as a team, not just as players, but as people and women of God,” said Brannan.
The team had the opportunity this summer to travel to Joplin, Missouri to work with Habitat for Humanity. Their trip involved the team building a house, painting another house, and helping out around the Habitat for Humanity warehouse, cleaning and organizing where it was needed. Bradshaw believes that the trip brought their team closer in many ways. “It was good to have bonding time off the field before we stepped onto the field,” said Bradshaw.
The team is traveling to Brazil for a mission trip over the Christmas holiday. They will have the chance to visit orphanages, play against club and professional teams, and fellowship with the communities there.
The team has been fundraising since last semester. As their peers and friends, they hope that their fellow students will help them reach their goals.
“The support means a lot, whether it’s prayer or donations,” Brannan said.
The team has jars set up in Pour Jon’s collecting even small amounts to help their efforts.
“We are being sent out and representing JBU in Brazil,” Brannan said. Bradshaw and Brannan both hope to see that support from students at their games this season as well.
“Student support makes a huge difference,” Brannan said. “It’s like you get a fire in you when you hear the fans cheering for you.” The team will play their next home game on Friday, Sept. 13 at 2 p.m. against Bellevue University.