Davidson Spotlight on Soccer Alum Alec Rotunda '16

Recently graduated Alec Rotunda '16 reflects on his time on campus.

I like to think of the Davidson experience as a bookshelf with two bookends. The first bookend is probably the least transformative item on the shelf, but it's the most essential in that it provides a resting place for all of the books, journals and Davidsonian articles inspired by our memories and friendships here.

Ever since I first toured Davidson, I felt it was the best college fit for me as a student, soccer player and person. This feeling of belongingness turned into pure joy when I was offered significant scholarship assistance that would allow my family (five kids) to complete the expensive cost of a Davidson education. I had my first bookend.

Once August of my first year came around, I quickly began to place stories on the shelf. As the days and weeks passed, I found myself forging friendships through pre-season and the first-year hall experience, while sweating out the soccer program's ambitious training schedule and matches with teammates. Of course, I can't forget to mention the struggle that is the rigorous Davidson course load.

The months continued, and it became increasingly clear to me that Davidson's promise of providing an environment for students to cultivate lives of leadership and service was being delivered. My teammates and I learned on and off the field through successes and failures, jubilance and heartache.

We beat ACC foes like Virginia Tech, Duke and NC State, though fell short against conference opponents like Elon (SoCon) and George Mason (A-10). We celebrated goals and teammates who were in good form, while recognizing those who dealt with season-ending and, at times, career-ending injuries.

We learned how to be a part of something larger than ourselves. We learned how to be a team. We became a band of brothers. These lessons transcended the team into our personal lives, guiding our experiences as the shelves filled, until the second bookend was placed at graduation.

Looking back now, as a graduate of the Class of 2016, it's remarkable to muse about my unique triumphs and struggles as they support each other between the bookends. I can't help but feel deep gratitude toward all of those who contributed the donations, time and love that made the journey possible. The books of my life are ongoing, but I will forever be grateful for the Davidson shelf.

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Davidson Spotlight on Soccer Alum Alec Rotunda '16

Players Mentioned

Alec Rotunda

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