TACOMA, Wash. - Throughout the academic year, GoLutes.com will profile the Pacific Lutheran University senior student-athletes that are embarking on their final collegiate season. Today's installment features PLU women's soccer student-athlete Kelly Brown.

Senior Kelly Brown learned many valuable lessons in her time as a Lute soccer player. With one season left before graduation, she is soaking up the time she has left to play alongside her teammates.
 

Hometown: Kennewick, Wash.

Highlights: Three-time NWC Champion Two-Time NCAA Qualifier 50 Career Games Played 2019 Honorable Mention All-NWC

 
"My teammates and coaches have pushed me to be the best I can be on and off the field," Brown said. "My teammates have turned into family and have been through everything with me." 
 
A biology major with a minor in business, Brown has learned how to balance her academics with athletics, and made incredible memories along the way. She is an avid member of intramural sports, and the Treasurer of the Pre-Health Science Club. Above all, she has learned how to push through the challenges to get to the fun. 
 
"I have learned the importance of time management, how to work in a team, and the meaning of hard work," Brown said. "When you're on a team everything is not always going to go your way and you will face challenges, but through hard work you can overcome them."
 
Brown's favorite soccer memory is traveling to England in 2018 with the women's and men's soccer squads. She cherished the opportunity to travel to a different country with her teammates and play the game she loves in a new place.
 
On the field, the Kennewick, Washington native has appeared in 50 games as a Lute, making 42 starts, including starting every game over the past two seasons. An Honorable Mention All-Northwest Conference selection last fall, Brown has helped the Lutes win three NWC titles and make two trips to the NCAA Division III Tournament while posting a 46-9-8 overall record and a 39-5-4 record in conference play. Brown has anchored a stout defensive backline that has posted shutouts in 34 of the 50 games she's played in. A standout in the classroom in addition to on the field, Brown was named NWC All-Academic in each of the past three seasons and was inducted into the Chi Alpha Sigma honors society. 
 
"Kelly has been a positive life force since day one in our program," said Head Coach Seth Spidahl. "She always approaches training and games with an upbeat, energetic attitude. She's made a tremendous impact both on and off the field: a captain, all-conference player, and Chi Alpha Sigma scholar. I look forward to her senior year being her best year yet!"
 
At PLU, Brown is grateful for the friendships she's made in and outside of athletics. 
 
"The bonds that you make at college through living in the dorms, classes, and then living off campus with friends is something that is irreplaceable," Brown said.
 
After graduation, Brown plans to attend dental school and become a dentist.