More than an Athlete: Avery Truelove
Photo Courtesy of Taylor Baker.
Avery Truelove is one of many busy student-athletes on Lee’s campus, but she pushes herself to be involved with much more than just her sport.
Truelove is a peer leader, a part of the A-Force team for admissions and a newly minted leader in Delight Ministries — all while being a triple and long jumper for Lee’s track team.
“My favorite thing about being involved is that I have the opportunity to make new friends, get connected with different professors and staff on campus, and the excitement of getting plugged into a new thing every year,” she said.
Truelove works under Darren Echols, the director of admissions. He is also the Gateway instructor for the class she peer leads.
Truelove (left) with a prospective student.
“Avery is the model of a well-rounded student,” said Echols. “She does a really good job of being excellent in all that she puts her mind to.”
Echols explained Truelove connects with visiting families because she is authentic in sharing her experience with prospective students.
Regarding her peer leader position, Echols said she engages with the freshmen and connects with each one of them individually.
“By being a peer leader and working with prospective students, she really gives back to Lee University,” Echols said.
Cristina Moore, the new team director for Delight Ministries, appreciates Truelove’s ability to find time to minister to the girls around her at Lee.
“Avery has been a good addition to the Delight team by taking initiative and embracing the girls with her bright smile and warm spirit,” Moore said.
Moore and Echols both agree Truelove is one to take charge and work hard in whatever she is doing.
Alongside her many on-campus involvements, Truelove is preparing for her last track season at Lee, set to begin next semester.
Truelove attempts a long jump. Photo courtesy of Michael Colander.
“Avery is a great triple jumper and also picks up points in the long jump at conference,” said Caleb Morgan, head coach of the Lee track team. “She is a phenomenal leader and an amazing encourager to her teammates. For Avery, it is always about the team.”
“I really believe the team feels more like a family because of her,” said assistant track coach Joseph Crook. “She is quick to help others when they need it most and won't just focus on her event when a teammate is struggling. Avery embodies all of the qualities of a good student-athlete.”
