Catching up with Cowgirl Soccer. Former Wyoming student-athlete Courtney Merkle was a four-year letterwinner and goalkeeper for the Cowgirls from 2009-12. A three-time Mountain West Defensive player of the week selection, she still ranks among the top ten in school history in five categories including saves, minutes played, games played, goals against average and shutouts. Graduating with a degree in kinesiology and health promotion in 2014, she is currently a Senior Athletic Academic Counselor at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Ariz. Merkle works closely with the women's soccer, men's tennis, women's swim & dive, volleyball and football programs regarding their academic progress and NCAA academic eligibility. UW Media Relations recently caught up with her to see what's been going on.
What steps did you take to get into your current career field?
When I was a student-athlete at the University of Wyoming, I developed a great relationship with my Academic Coordinator at the time (Sara Ray) who helped me pursue getting into this field. After finishing up my athletic career, I accepted a Graduate Assistant position at Northern Arizona University in their Student-Athlete Development unit and earned my master's in education. I eventually found my way back to UW and worked in the Office of Academic Support as an Academic Coordinator from 2017-2019, and recently made the move out to Tucson to work at the University of Arizona.
How did your involvement in athletics aid in the path that you chose following graduation?
I can confidently say I would not be where I am today without my athletic and academic experience at the University of Wyoming! Growing up in Canada, I didn't really understand athletics in the United States, but once I stepped on campus I was hooked and knew I wanted a career in athletics. Having been through the student-athlete experience really helps me in my day-to-day working with student-athletes and understanding the demands of being a student and an athlete.
What piece of advice would you give current student-athletes?
Take advantage of every opportunity provided to you as a student-athlete. Whether it's attending an optional event with a guest speaker, being in SAAC, attending a networking event, the experience really is what you make it. The window for athletics is so small and some athletes finish their collegiate careers and don't feel ready for the next step, but you have all the tools and resources to feel confident right at your fingertips and an amazing staff to help you out.
What is your fondest memory of playing at the University of Wyoming?
It's hard to pick one memory! I am so thankful for all the life-long friendships built through my experiences at UW. A couple big highlights would be going to Europe my freshman year with the team as well as the season we had my junior year. It was the first time a Wyoming team had reached to the Mountain West championship final and I think we finished the season being ranked #10 in the Pacific region which was pretty cool!
How did your previous coaches influence you?
I think that my previous coaches at UW have had a lasting impact on me beyond my playing days. Having a career in athletics I have also been able to stay connected with Danny and Pete over the years who have always been in my corner. I am very appreciative of their guidance and support!
