I’m Will Sullivan with the University of Dubuque baseball team. Nelson Edmonds reached out to me about the ‘Spartans Supporting Physical and Emotional Health’. I have my statement written below and I would like it to be shared using your platform. “My name is William Sullivan. I am nineteen years old and graduated from Dubuque Senior in 2024. I currently attend the University of Dubuque and am working to get my Exercise Science degree as well as playing on the UD Baseball Team. Baseball has been in my life since I was four years old. I’ve always loved the game, and I strive to get better every day. Not only do I love the game, but I also enjoy comradery with my teammates. Creating new and lasting relationships with new teammates is important to me. Getting to know each other and playing for each other is part of being a successful team. Being able to play this sport has kept me strong mentally and physically. I play outfield, first base, and pitch. So, making sure I’m mentally and physically strong is my number one priority. My time in baseball has helped me with both of these. Being a student athlete requires dedication, time, and accountability. It is important for me to stay healthy physically and mentally. I feel that this helps me and my team. It is essential for me to be at my best every day because baseball is a team sport. I’m just a small part of what it takes to be a team. Baseball keeps you in great condition physically. Whether that be through strength training, practice, conditioning after practice, and practicing my skills in the outfield, first base, or on the mound. Maintaining my body can help me perform my very best and reduce the risk of injuries. This helps me be the best teammate. Baseball has taught me how to deal with success and failure and has a major impact on my emotional/mental health. Baseball is a game of failure, whether that be missing pitches on the mound, errors in the outfield, errors at first base, and striking out. I’ve learned to just move on, focus on the next play and not let one error or strikeout affect me. I have learned that tough outings or errors don’t define you, but your work ethic and how you carry yourself does. Mental toughness, attitude and how you work with coaches and teammates are all part of what kind of player you are. The experiences and skills I have gained through baseball helps me in all aspects of my life. I am blessed to be part of UD Baseball, and I thank God for my ability to play and stay healthy. I believe a great opportunity is earned and not given. I will always put my physical and mental health at the forefront of everything, and I will strive to encourage others to do this as well”
