DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. (Oct. 1, 2018) – For Day One of the NCAA Diversity and Inclusion Week, our student-athletes show that they are "More than just Athletes!" Below is field hockey student-athlete Cheradyn Pettit, women's soccer student-athlete Jess Brandt and men's soccer student-athlete Santiago Corral. Check back in tomorrow for Day 2 of the NCAA Diversity and Inclusion week!
Cheradyn Pettit: I grew up living and breathing sports. My whole family is passionate about sports and supported both my brother and I played multiple sports growing up. I thought I was like all of my other friends striving for the most out of my athletic career by playing in high school and playing on a travel team. However, it was in high school that I realized that I was different from all of the other athletes in my high school. It was my junior year that I finally came out as bisexual, but it was not until my senior year that my diversity was not only a struggle but also a chance to be a role model for others. I was not alone because a few other athletes at my school also found the strength to come out and be proud of their sexuality. Becoming a college athlete further helped my realized that my diversity is what makes me unique and special and it is something to be proud of because the athletic family at Mercy College never saw it as a flaw, but rather supported my growth as a DII bisexual athlete.
Jess Brandt: I am more than an athlete, I am a Christian. From the day I was born, Christianity has been a huge part of my life. Being a Christian means a lot to me, especially while being an athlete. My faith is what I rely on during times of struggle and is what pushes me to be a better person. I don't start my day without a reading from my bible and I don't end my day without thanking God for constantly blessing me. My faith is the most important part of my life and it will always remain that way. That is why it is important for me to tell people that I am more than an athlete, I am a Christian athlete.
Santiago Corral: Being an Argentinian for me is basically everything. I actually realized how much I loved and missed my country when I came here, US is great but there is no place like home, I really miss my people, my food, my house. Fortunately there are a couple more guys from Argentina too so I don't feel that far away all the time. I love the diversity that Mercy has and it is really exciting to have friends from all over the world.
