Mercedes Pacheco Research Paper

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Mercedes Pacheco is the youngest member of a group of family-oriented athletes. Athletics are nothing rare in the Pacheco family; from her father who swam for the Lobos, to her brother, Nathanael, who played soccer at Gonzaga. Mercedes herself entered into the athletic world at a young age, however, her first sport wasn’t the sport that she stuck with. At a young age, she started as a dancer and gymnast without giving any attention to other sports. It was in 8th grade though that she had the opportunity to try out for sports and so she gave volleyball a chance. She fell in love with the game, quit dance and gymnastics and “from then on, it’s just been volleyball.” Pacheco’s love for the game comes from so many aspects. Whether it’s the adrenaline rush of each play, the team aspect of the game, working together and adapting to each other’s personality, or the challenge of keeping her mental game strong. Volleyball has given more to …show more content…

It’s her family who is her number one priority. Pacheco had her family in mind when she made her decision to attend the University of New Mexico. Being able to stay close to family was very important when it came to choosing where she would pursue her academic and collegiate athletic career. Therefore, it was no surprise when the UNM was a contender. Regardless of the distance, it was the athletic atmosphere that finalized her decision. The environment stood out from other universities that she visited and the genuine relationships between the team and coaches were something that made a significant impact on Pacheco. Not to mention, attending UNM would achieve her dream of playing in front of a hometown crowd. Representing Lobo Athletics, UNM, and the state of New Mexico has been an experience unlike any other. “[Being a Lobo is] a lot more prideful for those of us who are in state than those who come out of state... to be able to represent our entire state is something that is super

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