Asked to share a little about herself, Vanessa Funk is quick to mention her family that has been so dedicated to her formation, motivation and drive.
A member of the Lancaster Fisher Catholic High School Class of 2025, Funk makes it clear that her family is her world. They are her number one fans at every softball game, and “my mama” records every play, cheers her heart out and has always been unbelievably supportive.
A test of faith came durinplg her junior year when she sustained a significant injury. After years of improving her abilities as an athlete, Funk was sidelined. Having to endure nine months of physical therapy and many setbacks, she acknowledged that her mental health suffered.
Supportive physical therapists changed her mindset and attitude. As the hours turned into weeks and months during her rehabilitation, she often wanted to give up, but she worked twice as hard instead.
Witnessing the therapists’ care for her made Funk realize that she wants to do the same thing for others. In addition to playing college softball at Wheeling University in West Virginia, she plans to major in athletic training to help athletes return from injuries to their sport.
Her Fisher Catholic coaches shared that while she was unable to directly participate in games while injured, she attended every practice, game and team function as a supportive teammate.
Supporting and believing in others makes Funk feel better about herself and her future.