MY LETU STORY: Gabriella Sanchez

NOTE: This is part of a series on letuathletics.com with feature stories written by senior student-athletes, or in their final year, about their time at LeTourneau and the impact it has made on them.

By: Gabriella Sanchez | Sr. | Women's Soccer

My experiences at LeTourneau are ones I will never forget. 

I’ve faced many challenges here, but each one was an opportunity for growth. There were moments when balancing school, athletics, and faith felt overwhelming, but I learned to trust God through the process. These challenges strengthened my discipline and deepened my faith in ways I never expected. 

Through my sport, I found a family I had always been looking for in my team. When playing club and high school, I never felt as connected with my teammates as I have had the opportunity to here at LETU. What sets this team apart is the way we support each other beyond the field. Whether it’s through pre-game prayers, dance parties in the locker room, or playing mafia on the bus, my teammates are truly forever family.  

One of my favorite memories with my team is possibly the many games of mafia we played on the bus together. The games got more chaotic/fun when the men's team would join in. On one trip, we played for the entire trip back, which was about three-and-a-half hours. We were completely caught up in hilarious scenarios and determined to solve the mystery of who the Mafia was.  

Another unforgettable memory that I will hold with me is the incredible opportunity that we had to fly to Chicago and compete against strong teams. That trip was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had. We got to see so many amazing things including a chance to visit Lake Michigan! Those are memories that I will cherish forever.

What makes my experience at LETU unique is the rare balance between academics, extracurricular activities, and athletics. Few places offer the chance to prioritize school while still making time for personal growth and team involvement. 

During my time here, I have had the privilege of representing women’s soccer as part of SAAC and serving as a leader in FCA. Both organizations do an incredible job of bringing sports together, whether by improving our programs or creating opportunities to worship as one community.   

I am incredibly grateful for everyone who has shaped me into the person I am today and supported me throughout this journey. The staff here at LETU are so supportive of their student-athletes and have worked closely with me to accommodate games and traveling schedules (and my four concussions). I am especially thankful for the staff members who took the time to chat with me in their offices, offering wisdom and encouragement as I prepared for the future. 

Being an athlete at LETU has provided the perfect environment to cultivate and grow in my faith, while also playing my sport for the Lord and His glory every day. As I move forward, I know the lessons I’ve learned at LETU, both on and off the field, will stay with me. The friendships, discipline, and faith I’ve developed here will continue to shape my journey long after graduation.  

Gabriella Sanchez #8