Central College Athletics

Abbi Roerdink
Tiffin, Ohio
Class of 2024

Why did you choose Central?

I chose Central because of how at home I felt as soon as I stepped foot on campus. Everyone was so welcoming and it was clear that many people would be helping me succeed during my 4 years on campus.I also knew Central would prepare me well for whatever I chose to do after graduation.
 
Favorite professor and why?

My favorite professor is Professor Maggie Schlerman.First, she is absolutely hilarious!But more importantly, she truly cares for each of her students and works hard to ensure her teaching methods are successful.She is constantly learning how to be a better professor and I really respect her for that.
 
You’re majoring in accounting because?

I’m majoring in accounting because I really enjoyed my Intro to Financial Accounting class freshman year.Professor Schlerman convinced me to be an accounting major and I have loved all the opportunities it has brought me.I also love a good spreadsheet and thankfully there are a lot of spreadsheets in accounting!
 
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?

Besides athletics, I lead a team Bible study for the girl’s track team which has been a true joy.I also am involved with Central College’s volunteer tax services in the spring where we help people in the community file their taxes for free.
 
Who are your go-to musical artists?

My go-to musical artists are CityAlight, Shane & Shane, and of course Taylor Swift.
 
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?

Attending Central and playing a sport has made me a more well-rounded person.I have learned how to keep school separate from track and how to allow track to be an outlet to forget about school for a couple of hours.I have also learned that being an athlete does not define me and my success is not who I am.Central College has provided me with more opportunities than just being a track athlete which has truly made me a better person.
 
If you could do any field event, what would you want to do?

I would love to do triple jump! I did triple jump a few times in high school and I’m trying to convince Coach Sturman to let me do it at least one meet this season.
 
Favorite professional athlete and why?

I really admire Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.Not only is she a world-record holder in the 400m hurdles, she also openly professes her faith and centers her track career around her faith.I really admire her boldness and attitude regarding being a Christian athlete.
 
What does your pre-race routine look like?

My pre-race routine usually consists of doing a quick run around the track as soon as we get to the meet.Then, I usually have a little bit of time before I race so I will drink some Bubblr, listen to some worship music, and cheer on teammates as they compete until it is time to warm-up.
 
What item in your dorm room could you not live without?

My Keurig is a lifesaver.If I didn’t have a cup of coffee every morning, I would be a mess!
 
Favorite TV Show

I have too many! New Girl, Brooklyn 99, The Office, Criminal Minds, and Only Murders in the Building are a few I’m loving right now though.
 
What’s it like to compete for Coach Sturman?

Coach Sturman really is great. He is constantly learning different techniques and drills for us to do to get faster and improve on our form. He pushes his athletes to be better every day and is always encouraging. I wouldn’t be the athlete I am today without him believing in me and pushing my beyond what I thought my limits were.
 
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central’s women’s track and field team?

I really love getting to see my teammates every day! Everyone builds each other up and wants to see each other succeed both on the track and in life in general. Some of my favorite memories from Central happened during practice or at track meets. I have made life-long friends from being on the track team and I am super thankful for the opportunity to run at Central.
 
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?

I would love to be a mom and be working as a CPA 10 years from now. Ideally, I would live somewhere warm but I really can’t see myself leaving the Midwest where all my family is. But wherever I am in 10 years I pray I am being obedient to where the Lord is calling me!
 
Favorite food from Central Market

I love the Sweet & Spicy Korean Beef Bowls.But every meal from Central Market is best topped off with a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
 
Bucket list

• Run a ½ marathon with Hadyn Miller & Abby Gruver
• Attend the Track & Field World Championships
• Go on a mission trip to a different country
• Travel the world!