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NCAA Division III Week Spotlight: Meghan Spence

NCAADIIIWeek
Widener University is proud to be a part of the NCAA's second annual Division III Week.  The purpose of Division III Week is to call attention to each school's campus and highlight student-athletes achievements ranging from athletics, academics and community service.  The event is part of Division III's Identity Initiative, which seeks to provide an assortment of tools and programs for use in sharpening the division's identity in explaining why they prefer to compete in Division III.
 
Today we are highlighting senior Meghan Spence from the volleyball team. Spence was a key player the last four years and gave the Pride reliable play at libero.  She finished her senior season a second team All-Commonwealth Conference pick after closing first in the league with 6.06 digs per set, first on the team with 679 digs and tied for second with 37 aces. Spence graduates first in school history with 2,776 digs and fifth with 141 aces.
 
 
How do you balance your time as a student-athlete between your studies and time spent with your team?
 
As a student-athlete I have found it easier to manage my time between school and volleyball. When I am in season, most of my time is spent with my teammates because we practice every day or have a game. The time I have with my teammates gives me a break from school and allows me to clear my mind of any stress. If I have any free time while in season, I spend it doing my school work to help keep a balance between my athletics and academics.

 
What is your favorite athletic moment here at Widener?
 
My favorite athletic moment at Widener was during the 2011 volleyball season when we were able to host the semifinal round of the conference tournament. We ended up with the second seed overall before the playoffs began, earning us home court advantage for the first time in volleyball.

 
Would you recommend to your friends, other students, or prospective students that they play a sport during their time at school?
 
Yes, I would recommend playing a sport because it helps you develop time management skills and create friendships that will last forever. When I am out of season, I am able to continue to use my time management skills to help maintain my grades. Both on and off the court my teammates are always there for me when I need them most. They push me to strive for excellence in the classroom and do the best I can on the volleyball court.

 
How do you think your DIII experience would have differed if you did not choose to be a student-athlete?
 
I cannot imagine what my experience would have been like if I had chosen not be a student-athlete. Volleyball has been a part of my life since I was 10 years old and I would have been missing a part of myself if I did not play. Without sports in my life, I probably would have procrastinated more with school work and lacked time management skills. I also would not have had the support of my teammates when I needed them the most throughout my four years. They have become my second family and supported me when I needed them the most.

 
How did being a student-athlete help you make a positive impact on the community?
 
As a student-athlete at Widener University, I have had the opportunity to participate in various community service activities that have allowed me to make a positive impact on the community. Some of these activities include helping out with Special Olympics, participating in CHOP's Buddy Walk, and cleaning up the Sun Hill area. I have also been able to make a positive impact on the community through my involvement in Widener SAAC or Widener's Student Athletic Advisory Committee.  SAAC gave me the opportunity raise money for both the Make-a-Wish Foundation and Special Olympics, and also to participate in the polar plunge.

 
From your own personal experiences, why would you recommend prospective student-athletes come to Widener?
 
Widener offers athletes various opportunities to excel both in the classroom and on an athletic team.  At the Division III level, your academics are your top priority and your coaches understand that. They will work around your schedule to make sure you can achieve at the highest level in the classroom and help you accomplish your goals.  Along with your coaches, your professors provide you with the support that you need when in season and want to see you accomplish your goals as well.
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