What it’s like to be a student-athlete in college

Hiro Nagahama-Sequera ’26, Student-Athlete, Reflects on Finding Community and Support at PLU

Coming in as a transfer student in the fall of 2023, I had some idea of what to expect as a student-athlete – balanced lifestyle, working ahead of schedule, and preparing for the mental challenge of the season ahead. However, I overlooked one important aspect of my life that I came to realize during my time at PLU – the importance of finding a supportive community. 

The thrill of playing soccer (aka football in my home country of New Zealand) has been embedded in my blood. As a result, the late-night practices, early mornings at weight training, and the intense schedule we follow throughout the season are not really challenges. The challenge came with adapting to my new role as a Lute. I joined a team where most players already knew each other from club soccer, pre-college connections, or playing in the Washington area, but at no point at all can I say that I felt left out. At PLU, a value that has helped students like me adapt to a new team environment is the sense of family the players create, or in the words of Coach John Yorke, ‘Once you’re a Lute, you’ll always be a Lute’ (paraphrased). The culture of inclusivity and support is a value that defines PLU Athletics, and is repeated countless times by all members of the department. Whether it’s bonding over small wins in Tuesday night scrimmages, cheering each other on at games, or simply hanging out as friends off the field, these moments have shown me what it truly means to be a Lute. I came to the realization that being a Lute means that you’re a part of something bigger than yourself. Coach Yorke’s words resonate deeply – community is built on trust, encouragement and respect. 

When I look back at how much I have experienced so far as a PLU student-athlete, the biggest growth I’ve experienced is in the relationships I’ve built within the community, both on and off the field, including staff and professors who often attend our games to support us. Their presence represents PLU’s emphasis on investing in our success. It motivates me to be the best version of myself as a person and as a player, but it also motivates me to excel in the classroom. Ultimately, being a Lute means more than winning conferences or earning A’s; it’s about contributing to and thriving within a supportive community.