Fall Charge -- Emily Baird (Women's Lacrosse) - Bucknell University Athletics

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Dear Bucknell Women's Lacrosse Community,

As I start my senior year, I can reflect on the meaningful influence that Bucknell Athletics has had on my life. The leadership opportunities, invaluable lessons, resources, personal growth, and enduring friendships I've cultivated throughout my journey in this program have shaped my college experience and the person I am today.

Starting college as a freshman in 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, was a unique and unprecedented situation. In those uncertain and challenging times, the team leaned on each other for support and became a source of strength and resilience. The lessons learned during that time have become an integral part of our team's identity, shaping us into a more resilient and tightly-knit group both on and off the field.

Playing at the Division I level is undoubtedly demanding, but it is also a privilege and a special opportunity. I am grateful to have entered college with teammates and coaches who were not only excited to see me succeed on and off the field but also became my second family. Furthermore, being part of a larger athlete community throughout campus, where mutual support and encouragement are the norm, reinforced the idea that together, we can achieve greatness both in sports and in life. This atmosphere of camaraderie and shared purpose has not only shaped our team's culture but has also enriched my college experience.

One of the most remarkable aspects of our program is the connection we share with our alumni. The memories we've created with those who graduated before us are a testament to the enduring spirit of this program. The traditions they started serve as a reminder of the strong bonds that tie us all together. A few of my favorite traditions include Senior day, blue-orange teams, alumni days, pre-game sprints, and time spent together at class dinners. The alumni have not only left us with cherished memories but have also imparted valuable lessons that continue to guide us today.

To our alumni, thank you for the traditions that bind us, the memories that make us smile, and the connections that enrich our lives. Thank you also for your support professionally as we navigate internships and take the first steps in our careers! Your commitment to leaving a lasting legacy has not gone unnoticed.

With another year of Bison Athletics in full swing, I am honored to share my experience with our loyal alumni, families, and friends. Your support directly impacts our ability to compete at our best, covering equipment, meals, and travel expenses. Your help empowers us to represent our University with pride and excellence.

Bucknell Athletics has been a cornerstone of my college experience, shaping me into the person I am today. The lessons I've learned, the growth I've experienced, and the leadership skills I've developed will undoubtedly stay with me throughout my life. Thank you for being a part of our success!

Go Bison!

Emily Baird '24
Majoring in Biomedical Engineering
Bucknell Women's Lacrosse