SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- 2017 O'Gorman High School graduate Izzy Hedge did not have to travel far from home to attend Augustana. The now senior in college chose Augie because of its close location.

"One reason why I chose Augustana was because I am from Sioux Falls," said Hedge. "I have really enjoyed the convenience of having my family at all of our home soccer games. Some of my favorite memories of game days include going out to dinner with my family and local friends following games. 

"Having Augie in town has given me the opportunity to remain connected with my friends from Sioux Falls while also giving me the ability to form many new friendships."

Undoubtedly, the Hedge family has enjoyed watching the Vikings cruise to a 42-15-9 overall record in Hedge's first three seasons at Augustana. In addition to a great team on the field, Hedge understands that the soccer team is much more than a talented group of players. 

"The soccer team has been a great support system for me throughout college," Hedge said. "No matter what I was going through, there was probably another person on the team that experienced the same struggles as me. The soccer team has given me lifelong friendships, and I am very grateful to have been introduced to such wonderful people." 

The senior also took time to talk about those who introduced her to those wonderful people: the coaching staff.

"The soccer coaches have also helped me grow in my four years at college," she said. "One of [Head Coach Brandon] Barkus' favorite lessons includes overcoming adversity. He has taught me to embrace the challenges that happen in all areas of life. I do not think I would be as prepared for my future profession without the soccer life lessons I have learned."

Hedge's future profession? A job whose importance cannot be understated, especially amidst a pandemic: Nursing. 

"I chose to be a nursing major at the last minute before coming to Augie," said Hedge." I couldn't be happier with the decision. One reason I've enjoyed nursing so much is because of the faculty. The nursing faculty not only act as professors but also mentors. The program has been the perfect mix of material that is challenging and exciting. Each professor has given me the confidence I need to grow into the nurse I want to be in the future."

Whether it be the coaching staff, her peers, her teammates, or the faculty, Hedge knows there is something special about the Augustana community. 

"I have really enjoyed living and learning on a small campus throughout my college experience," said the senior. "I have been able to have relationships with a variety of people on campus that I might not have been able to at a larger university. It didn't take me as long to adjust to the college environment because I had real friendships immediately on the soccer team. 

"I remember being a freshman and feeling included in every part of the team. Now, as a senior, I hope to carry-on that feeling of inclusion on the team and the campus because I feel like that was a main reason why I stayed at Augie for all four years."