WILMORE KY--- Abby Fletcher, senior captain of the Asbury softball team, exemplifies the terms student-athlete and servant-leader. The biology major from Louisa, Ky., spends most of her days in the Walt and Rowena Shaw Collaborative Learning Center and her late afternoons and evenings at the Kirkland complex, softball field or the Luce Center. Fletcher, who plays both catcher and infielder, received Scholar Athlete honors from both AU and the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA).
The Ambassador editorial team spoke with the multitalented Fletcher who has managed a full academic schedule, fall softball practice and interviewing for medical school this semester. She was recently accepted into medical school at the University of Kentucky.
 
What are some of your best memories of playing softball at Asbury?
While I do love playing the game of softball, some of the best memories I have from being a part of the team happened off the field. I am grateful for relationships I have built with my teammates and the opportunities to grow together. A highlight was my team's mission trip to Puerto Rico last summer. Though we were there to serve the people of Aguada, the families there were a light to us in their compassion and generosity.
 
What life lessons have you learned from managing the demands of being a pre-med major and a college athlete?
Being a collegiate student-athlete requires dedication and discipline to be successful in the classroom and on the field. Since softball is a substantial commitment, it has been important for me to improve my time management skills to maintain my grades and take care of my health. Additionally, playing a team sport has developed my people skills and ability to work as part of a group. I have grown as a leader and my understanding of the importance of servant leadership. These skills and perspectives will be helpful to me as I start medical school and pursue my career.
 
How have you grown spiritually during your time at Asbury?
The love of Christ has been demonstrated to me time and time again by my coaches, professors and peers. Because I'm loved so well, I am challenged to be more intentional about sacrificially loving others. Though I grew up in a Christian household, I have learned even more about the value of Christian community while at college.
 
 
What are your plans after AU?
After graduation, I plan to attend medical school to become a family physician. I grew up in a small town in eastern Kentucky, and I hope to serve people in rural communities like my own.
 
Who are some of the coaches, faculty and staff that have most impacted you during your time at AU?
I have had countless people pouring into me during my time at Asbury. I am very grateful for all my coaches who have pushed me to grow both as a player and as an individual. Coaches Megan Curry, Jenn Sarver and Ally Moore have been very supportive and encouraging on and off the field. Additionally, I am thankful for my biology professors, such as Dr. Ben Brammell and Dr. Marvin Ruffner, who have helped me understand that science is not in contrast with my Christian worldview. They have taught me that studying and being in awe of God's creation is a form of worship, and that has helped me reframe my motivations in studying biology.
 
What advice would you give new student-athletes coming to Asbury?
Be intentional about building relationships with your professors and classmates as well as your coaches and teammates. Being part of an athletics program is just one of many blessings that can come from being a student at Asbury. I'm so thankful for the opportunity to play the sport I love at an institution that also emphasizes both academics and spiritual growth.