Stacy Pease

Growing up in Carmel and an avid athlete, I always knew I'd play college soccer; so it came as no shock when I signed a letter of intent to begin my collegiate career at Central Michigan University in 2002. What I didn't know is that I would soon begin battling depression, anxiety, and an eating disorder.

By 2005 it was time to come home to heal, and through an odd series of circumstances, I picked up an unexpected phone call from then (and current) IUPUI coach, Chris Johnson. He'd been told I was back in town. I came, I played, and my once-broken heart was healed.

I fell in love with the school, the teammates that became lifelong best friends, and the sport I had always played but had grown to hate at a university that wasn't built for me. My final two college seasons were played at IUPUI, and after I graduated, my coach and mentor asked me to stay and join his staff.

I hadn't considered coaching previously, but I know now it's one of the things I was born to do. I coached at IUPUI for two years before leaving, only to return years later and coach again for six more amazing years for the Women's Soccer Team. My IUPUI coaching career concluded a year ago so I might stay home to raise my daughter and son, but I remain involved as an active alumna. It's the least I can do.

Attending and coaching for IUPUI under Chris Johnson helped shape me into who I am. I will be forever grateful.