Newsletter #10
Opening Message
I recently heard a quote — something I’ve been trying to live by: “This too shall pass.”
Right now, my life is filled with incredible things — opportunities, growth, and moments I’m deeply grateful for. But I repeat this quote to keep myself grounded and working hard. Because as amazing as these times are, this too shall pass.
And the beauty of that truth is that it applies just as much when things are hard. When life feels heavy, when you’re tired, when setbacks come — this too shall pass.
Whether life feels amazing or overwhelming, the answer is the same: focus on your controllables, keep your perspective, and keep working hard.
But here’s the caveat — when things are good, don’t rush past them. Take a moment to savor it. Ground your feet. Close your eyes. Feel the gratitude. Soak in the beauty of where you are — because even the best moments pass too.
Main Feature
USF WLAX competed at the American Boy Fall Brawl, hosted by the American Boy Project. This organization raises awareness and funds to fight addiction and support individuals and families affected by substance abuse.
The night before the games, while talking with my dad at the hotel, I told him how moved I was by the stories some of my teammates shared. My extended family has faced similar challenges, and it’s never an easy subject to talk about — especially when it’s someone you love.
The family who started this organization lost their son to addiction. Instead of breaking, they decided to educate, empower, and fight for others. That’s powerful.
So my question to you is — what are you fighting for?
Regardless of what you believe spiritually, I think one of the greatest ways to honor yourself and your Creator is to become the best version of you.
If you don’t have a cause yet, make yourself the cause.
Call to Action:
Becoming or Being Unstoppable Is a Choice
It’s easy to tell you to make yourself the cause. But here’s the secret sauce to making it happen: Becoming or being unstoppable is a choice.
Strength isn’t something you wait for — it’s something you decide.
Every situation gives you two options: fold or fight.
Most people wait for the “right time” — for motivation, clarity, or courage — before they act. But that moment doesn’t come. The ones who win are the ones who decide to fight before they feel ready.
Every time life throws you a challenge, you have an opportunity to prove to yourself who you really are.
You can fold — and let circumstances dictate your outcome. Or you can fight — and take control of your story.
Fighting doesn’t always mean pushing harder. Sometimes it means staying consistent, showing up when you don’t feel like it, choosing gratitude when you want to complain, or helping someone else when you’re struggling yourself.
You become unstoppable when you stop negotiating with excuses and start choosing the hard path on purpose.
Unstoppable isn’t a title — it’s a mindset.
And it’s a choice you can make today.
Community Highlight: Dodge City Lacrosse App
One of my most impactful coaches — someone I now consider family — Coach Roe — just launched something game-changing for athletes: the Dodge City Lacrosse Online Training Platform.
This platform helps lacrosse athletes sharpen their dodging, footwork, speed, and agility with the same detailed, intentional approach that has powered Dodge City for years.
Dodge City started as one coach with one mission — now it’s a nationwide family built on hard work, passion, and purpose. The online platform is live now, with the official Dodge City App currently in development.
7-day free trial available — train with Dodge City anytime, anywhere.
If you’re serious about improving your dodging, this is where to start. Trust me — it’s made a massive impact on my game.
Upcoming Events
Saturday, November 1st — The HEADstrong Foundation Tournament
HEADstrong Lacrosse Tournament, supporting the HEADstrong Foundation and Nick’s House, which provides housing and care for families affected by cancer.
This tournament is especially meaningful to our team because of our honorary captain, Alyza Finstein, who continues her courageous battle with cancer. A portion of all funds raised will go directly toward helping Alyza’s family with medical costs.
Her strength and positivity embody everything USF Lacrosse stands for — playing with purpose and gratitude.
We do this for Alyza and every cent raised matters.
Donate or learn more
Games:
vs. Rutgers
vs. Stony Brook
PS - We are 9 - 0 going into the last two games of Fall Ball
Tuesday, November 4th @ 8:00 PM — Sofia’s Squad Zoom Series
Topic: Owning Your Story with Kylie Ohlmiller
Every athlete has a story — the wins, the losses, and the unseen moments. What separates great athletes is their ability to own that story.
Kylie Ohlmiller, the NCAA’s all-time leader in points (498) and assists (246), two-time Tewaaraton finalist, and professional player for Athletes Unlimited and New York Chargen, knows that better than anyone.
After a major injury, she didn’t let it define her — she used it to grow. Together, we’ll dive into how owning your truth builds confidence, connection, and purpose — on and off the field.
Quick Hit Inspiration
The tournament we just played in and the one we’re about to play both focus on causes that hit close to home — addiction and cancer.
Life is short. Way too short.
So here’s my challenge to you: reconnect with someone you haven’t spoken to in a while, or tell a family member you love them — for no reason at all.
Don’t wait for the “right time.” Don’t put it off another day. Let this be your sign from the universe to act — to reach out, to forgive, to reconnect, or simply to say, I appreciate you.
Because tomorrow isn’t guaranteed. And this too shall pass.
Closing
My mission has always been, and will always be, to empower others.
Last week, I talked about getting 1% better every day. This week, it’s about recognizing that every situation gives you two options: fold or fight.
Choosing to fight for yourself — even in small ways — will always make you better.
If you’re struggling, need support, or just need someone to talk to — that’s what Sofia’s Squad is here for. It’s more than a platform. It’s a community — one built on growth, accountability, and belief in each other.
You are never alone in this journey.
With you always,
Sofia
