5 minute read
Breanna Newberg
In the midday heat of early June, Breanna Newberg was running laps around Viking Stadium in her combat boots. The ‘22 grad was doing what she always does: training hard to be the best for whatever challenge is coming next. And her next challenge might be the most difficult one yet as she packed up and left for the Air Force Academy just a month after graduation. The two-time state champion goalkeeper will play soccer for the Falcons as she studies engineering.
Breanna’s list of academic and athletic achievements is lengthy—a testament to her intelligence, determination, drive and work ethic. But as she spoke to her classmates at commencement, Breanna was clear that accolades aren’t enough. She said, “Prioritizing worldly achievements over God is exhausting. You will be in a constant cycle of trying to prove yourself, and it is impossible to be the best at everything. No matter how hard you try, you will fall short. But that’s okay. God does not want us to be the best. He just wants us to do our best to live for Him.”
Before she left for the Academy, we talked with Breanna about her time at Lakeland Christian, her advice for younger teammates and where she sees herself in the future.
Photos by BA Schmitt & Sandy Johnson
Breanna’s ability to perform under pressure helped her team win back-to-back State titles.
How do you feel that LCS did in fulfilling its mission of educating students in the light of God’s Word to equip YOU for a lifetime of learning, leadership, service and worship?
LCS did well. It provided me with a lot of resources and class material to guide me on how to live a Godcentered life. There were also so many teachers and staff available to provide their own insight and advice which helped on a more personal level. It provided lots of opportunities to be a leader, like being a counselor at summer camp or being a class officer, which taught me how to work with and communicate with others.
Who was your most impactful teacher at LCS and why?
Mrs. Branham impacted my life the most because of how well she loved me and other students. She was always asking about our day and always made herself available to listen, even when it may have been inconvenient for her. She also started a weekly devotion where we would meet and talk about all the ways God is working in our lives. Her love for God and the way she loves others is inspiring and encourages me to live more like Him.
How do you feel you grew as a soccer player and person during your years at LCS?
I think I grew most as a leader. I’m naturally very quiet and introverted, but LCS gave me lots of opportunities to grow and be a strong communicator. Whether as captain of the soccer team, as a camp counselor, or as class treasurer, I was put in situations where other people looked to me for guidance. All these opportunities increased my confidence and expanded my ability to communicate with others.
What are your favorite soccer memories?
My favorite soccer memories are just the funny moments spending time with my teammates. The team trips and REAC sleepover were some of the best ones. For example, on the away trip for my junior year state championship, Maddie, Katie, and I got left at the hotel and had to run to cold stone in the dark. That was pretty funny.
If you could give younger students and/or athletes advice, what would you tell them?
Don’t stress over little things and make sure to stay grounded in your faith. There will always be worldly challenges (like tests or games) that seem really important at the time, but they won’t define you in the grand scheme of things. I think it is important to prioritize your time with God because trusting in Him will allow you to see what is really important in life and will save you a lot of stressful moments.
Why did you choose the Air Force Academy?
The Air Force Academy embodies everything I value and enjoy. I enjoy pushing myself mentally and physically, so the challenge of it was very appealing. Also, the Bible calls us to use our abilities to serve others and the Air Force will provide me with a lifetime of opportunities to serve the community.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?
I plan on making the Air Force my career. Ideally, I would still be serving in whatever duty I end up in— probably engineering.
What would you say has been your single greatest accomplishment so far, whether in the classroom or on the playing field?
Although not a physical award, I think one of the things I’m most proud of is having a reputation that makes other people feel comfortable to ask me for help. In school, I’m pretty good at understanding the material, and I really enjoyed helping other people who were struggling. Especially in math, a lot of my classmates would ask me to help them understand the lessons or do homework, and I liked being able to use my talents to help others.
Find more on Instagram! @LCSvikingsathletics
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April 15 Congratulations to CJ Smith and Cassidy Burke earning state medals today at the University of Florida. CJ became state running up in the high jump by clearing 6’7.5”.
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April 12 Congratulations to the LCS Boys tennis team for winning districts, and Congratulations to Kase Gibson for winning districts at #5 singles. He was also county champion last week at #5 singles! ��
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April 4 Meet The Ledger’s 2021-22 All-County Girls Soccer Team ⚽ Jason Streets Coach of the year -
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February 22 Congratulations Coach Carl! ������ Please join us in celebrating our varsity girls basketball coach, Mike Carl for being named 2022 District Coach of the year for girls’ basketball ����
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February 2 Congratulations ������
THIRD✨✨ in the state!! So proud of the LCS competition cheer team and thankful for the opportunity to represent LCS and use our talents to glorify God.
