At the University of St. Thomas, we believe student-athletes stand for something when they are on campus, in the classroom, and during competition. The Champions of Character award emphasizes integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership. The 2020-2021 Champions of Character Recipient is Marissa Vasquez.
"Receiving this award means everything to me because it shows that the hard work I put in does get noticed" Vasquez said. "It also shows how sports helped shape me into a well-rounded person on and off the field."
Vasquez, who is a member of the UST Softball program, played an integral role in their success during their inaugural season. The sophomore pitcher from Dickinson, Texas helped lead the Celts a 20-11 record, and land second place in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference.
When she isn't flustering opposing batters, Vasquez is serving her community. She attends St. Mary's of the Miracle Medal and is a mentor to the youth as she offers lessons and serves as a role model. Vasquez also helps three elderly women with daily activities to ensure comfort and happiness. These tasks sometimes require her to work through the night, but it doesn't prevent her from making practice and being a leader on the team. Vasquez planned on integrating the Softball Program with her service by organizing a kickball game with autistic children from the area. Unfortunately, this event was unable to be held due to COVID guidelines and regulations.
"Giving back to your community is important because it gives you a sense of purpose" Vasquez said. "It's beneficial because the information and skills you once learned can help someone else in their life; and you hope that these skills are passed to the next person and the cycle continues of helping one another. Also, the connections and relationships you build with people who are looking to better the themselves as well as the community are amazing! Dedicating time to help give back to my community is something that I was taught at a young age and will continue to do so throughout my life!"
Head Coach Angela Froboese brought the pitcher in from San Jacinto College and was immediately impressed with her leadership. When asked to describe Vasquez in one word, Froboese said "dedicated."
"Marissa is an incredibly hard worker. She sometimes comes to practice without sleep from working all night and never complains" Head Coach Angela Froboese said. "Things don't always come easy to Marissa, but she finds a way to be successful on both the field and in the classroom. You always want someone like Marissa in your program."
