BY SCOTT
HADDOW
Playing a full season in any sport can be challenging, but for
the most part is fairly routine.
This past season, Laurentian University women's soccer team
defender Sally Parent accomplished the seemingly trivial
feat.
Parent played all 16 regular season games and the lone playoff
game for the Lady Vees this past season.
It was a monumental achievement for the competitor.
During the last two years with the team, Parent played a grand
total of zero games.
During an exhibition game prior to the 2004-05 season, Parent
ripped her ACL in her right leg to shreds during a routine
play.
It stung as Parent had played the year before and actually
earned a role as a starter.
For the next two seasons, Parent was patient and poised despite
the set back that was threatening to crush her soccer playing
dreams.
"I waited a year-and-a-half for my surgery," said the Lockerby
Composite School graduate. "Because of the surgeon I went to
see, that's how long people have to wait...he's good, one of
the best. He fixed my knee up quite well. I had my surgery in
October 2005. I was back playing full games, with no brace, in
May 2006 with the Sudbury Canadians."
Just to step out on the field and compete again sent a rush
through Parent's body.
"It was a huge loss in my life not to be playing," said the
21-year-old. "It was a big void and it felt amazing to be back
playing. I love soccer."
Parent's full time return to the Lady Vees' fold was perfect
timing. The team lost star defender Melinda Roach in training
camp, which thrust Parent back into a starting role, two years
after she lost it due to the injury.
"Sally has been an amazing story of determination and passion
for the game," said head coach Rob Gallo. "Sally works hard on
and off the field. As an assistant captain, she led the team
with confidence."
Parent's return provided plenty of inspiration this past
season.
"She was an inspiration to us all," said the bench boss. "We
knew she would play again because she's dedicated and
energetic. She's a true symbol of the pride and tradition of
Laurentian Athletics."
Returning to the game was like jumping back on a bike for
Parent.
"Returning wasn't a challenge," said the defender. "It felt
natural, like I hadn't missed a beat."
Parent learned plenty by not listening during her ordeal away
from the game she loves.
"I learned if I set my mind to something, I can do it...despite
what people say," said Parent. "You can recover from serious
injuries and get back and play and have an impact."
The Lady Vees 2006 season came to an end late last week when
the University of Toronto bounced the team from the first round
of the playoffs, 1-0.
Parent and her teammates could still earn several year-end
awards and all-star positions.
