Cortney Parsell ’21 has always had a love of sports. During her first year, she played on the LVC women’s basketball team. After, she joined the women’s golf team. When it came time to select a practicum for her exercise science degree, she discovered the Joy of Sports Foundation.

The Joy of Sports Foundation provides opportunities for kids in the Derry Township area to participate in athletics. While each day varied, Parsell was typically tasked with creating marketing resources and social media posts. She attended meetings and communicated with people outside the foundation to ensure events ran smoothly.

“As my time with the Joy of Sports Foundation progressed, I had more tasks to accomplish,” Parsell said. “I noticed there weren’t any volleyball activities and suggested the idea to Terry Singer, my supervisor.”

Part of students’ practicum experience involves creating an event or project to be introduced at their placement. Parsell decided to start a volleyball camp.

“Creating the camp opened so many doors and provided opportunities for a group of kids who may not have had the option beforehand,” Parsell said. “It is heartwarming to think about the lives we may have touched with something as simple as volleyball.”

Now, Parsell coaches junior high girls’ volleyball at her high school alma mater, Galeton Area High School, and works as a rehabilitation aide at an outpatient physical therapy clinic. She plans to attend graduate school for physical therapy next year. Parsell is grateful to her practicum supervisor for making the experience enjoyable.

“Terry was so helpful, providing me with insight and guidance on the foundation,” Parsell said. “My success and enjoyment would not have been possible without him. It was amazing to be part of this organization.”

— Josh Hildebrand, Marketing & Communications Student Assistant