.svg)
By
Here's an inspirational story on how a soccer player started her journey to become an Athletic Trainer! Read more about Grace Mundy and watch the WVUA 23 Sports video!
Mundy, once a passionate soccer player at Holy Spirit Catholic School, saw her time on the field cut short due to multiple concussions compounded by a vision condition called Strabismus.
This eye misalignment, which she had surgically corrected as a toddler, began causing issues again as she got older. “The eyes and brain weren't syncing together,” explained Steve Mundy, her father.
While the surgical procedure provided an initial solution, over time, Grace's vision deteriorated, leading her to engage in intensive vision therapy. The regular sessions were challenging, but Grace emphasized, "I'm glad that we did it.”
Grace's passion for sports remained undiminished, even if she could no longer actively participate in soccer. Recognizing her love for athletics, Mary T. Long, the Head Athletic Trainer at Holy Spirit Catholic School, suggested a pivot in Grace's athletic journey.
"Let's change your path,” Long recommended, introducing the idea of Grace becoming a student trainer.
Embracing her new role with enthusiasm, Grace spent the next two seasons assisting the Holy Spirit football team. Beyond just aiding Long, her tasks spanned from preparing water for practice sessions to wrapping ice packs post-practice.
This new responsibility boosted her confidence. "I know the coaches trust in me,” she expressed, reflecting on her time with the team.
Grace's journey of turning adversity into opportunity culminated in her recent acceptance to the University of West Alabama, renowned for its athletic training program.
What began as a setback transformed into a path of discovery, revealing Grace's true passion and the next chapter in her life.
