By Katie DiQuollo
Special to The Alabama Baptist
Kaitlyn Orman, a sophomore midfielder on Samford University’s women’s soccer team, started this fall season with joy. And that was despite injury.
Orman tore her ACL for the second time in the 2016 spring season, putting a setback on her college career.
“I was able to physically push myself harder but more importantly I had a sense of peace from the Lord that it would be okay, that there would be hope and a purpose for this happening,” Orman said.
Circle of support
Her first torn ACL kept her on the bench freshman year, and the second kept her from playing spring season. Orman’s family and friends circled around for support as she recovered from both injuries.
“I have had numerous people encourage me daily and help me when I just couldn’t seem to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but the one person who has been my biggest supporter is my mom.”
Orman’s teammate and friend, Virginia McNeill, described her recovery as admirable.
“I think her love of the game and passion for this team helped her battle through the recovery so quickly, and I know we all look up to her for that,” McNeill said.
Orman’s setback of injury and recovery illustrates a deeper meaning than she ever would have thought. Because of her two injuries, her story has molded into her testimony.
“He has given me peace and hope in the future that in no way could have been done on my own. Through His good grace, God has pursued and recovered my life when I was filled with brokenness,” Orman said. “After my first surgery, I was self-reliant, determined to recover on my own strength. But God remained faithful and persistent making Himself known to me.”
Orman experienced the lows of what an injury brings to a person, but she also experienced the greatest high — peace in knowing the Lord is stronger than any injury.
‘Light for the Lord’
“Stepping back onto the field for the first time was exhilarating. Really the only word I can think to explain the feeling is joy, joy to be back playing that game I love and joy to be able to be a light for the Lord on the field.”
EDITOR’S NOTE — Katie DiQuollo is a junior Samford University student studying journalism and mass communication with a minor in sports and recreation ministry.
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