65 In a sudden turn of events, one of Bethel College’s most esteemed student athletes has left the school. Junior setter Sami Leach recently parted ways with Bethel and is no longer a member of the women’s volleyball team. The reigning Crossroads’ League setter of the year who was also a recipient of multiple Crossroads’ League player of the week awards played her final match as a member of the Pilots during the final round of the 2016 Pilot Invitational. Her final match was played against Cardinal Stritch University. Following this match, Leach officially withdrew her membership with the team and transferred out of Bethel and moved back to Franklin, Wisc. Fellow junior, athlete and now-former volleyball teammate Haley Brown was able to relay the details of Leach’s sudden transfer out of the volleyball program to the Beacon. “[Leach] transferred to a community college back home [in Franlkin] and will be taking some classes as well as working,” said Brown, “She’s taking some time off from volleyball for now.” Brown also relayed how this decision came to be. “Sam has always missed home while at school and away from her family,” said Brown, “She was always so busy with volleyball and classes and decided she would be much happier and relieve some stress if she stayed closer to home and spent more time with her parents and siblings.” Brown believes that although Leach has left the school and women’s volleyball program of Bethel College, Leach still left a positive and lasting impression on her teammates. “Sam has played a huge role in my life these last couple of years. She has been the best friend, roommate and teammate,” said Brown, “It is weird to be doing it all without her now and I miss her a lot.” This was no easy choice for Leach, but Brown claims that this was ultimately the right decision that Leach needed to make. “Overall, I just want the best for her and to see her happy and if moving back home is going to help with that, then I can be happy for her too,” said a reflective Brown of her former teammate and friend. The Beacon attempted to get a response from Leach regarding her decision, but has been unable to be in contact with her. Look for the Beacon to provide up-to-date information on any response regarding Leach’s take on the situation as it becomes available.
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