Intensity leads to diligence

EMU field-hockey star wraps up stellar career

Story by James De Boer
EMU sports: www.emu.edu

“Natural talent can only get an individual so far. The rest comes from heart, desire and the ‘want’ to be better and the dedication to put in work behind the scenes, in the offseason, and before and after practice.”

While that may sound like a motivational poster on a locker room wall somewhere, the words of Eastern Mennonite University field hockey coach Brenda Bechler actually describe the inner drive and perseverance of EMU senior Alyssa Derstine. She has pushed through changes of athletic position, changes of academic major, and a debilitating medical condition. Read more