by Mason Turner (2019)
Every high school athlete begins each season with one goal in mind: winning a state championship. For many, that dream is derailed by unforeseen challenges, and injuries often prove to be the most devastating setbacks. Countless athletic careers have been cut short, leaving promising dreams unfulfilled. However, some athletes rise above adversity, demonstrating resilience and determination that inspires others.
One such story is that of Molly Fitzpatrick, a 2023 Mount de Sales Academy graduate and now a standout sophomore on Piedmont University’s women’s soccer team. Molly’s senior year of high school took an unexpected turn when she tore her ACL during a basketball game. What followed was a journey that tested her limits both physically and mentally.
For Molly, the mental aspect of her recovery proved to be the most challenging aspect of the entire process. She describes the emotional toll of sitting on the sidelines, unable to play and wrestling with the uncertainty of whether she would ever return to her former self. She admits that the hardest part was not knowing what the outcome would be, but it was during this time that her faith in Christ grew significantly. Molly leans on her belief that everything happens for a reason and views her injury not as a setback but as an opportunity to grow. Her love for soccer was another driving force behind her determination, as she was adamant about not letting the injury define her. Watching from the sidelines was simply not an option for her—she knew she had to return.
When Molly finally stepped back onto the field on September 4th, 2024, after missing her Senior year of high school and Freshman year of college, she said it wasn’t nerves that consumed her but a sense of anxiety. She worried whether she would still play with the same skill and confidence as before. However, the moment the first whistle blew, everything felt natural again. Molly described the moment as “like riding a bike”—the instincts and love for the game came flooding back. Her first goal after her return was a moment of triumph, not just for her, but for everyone who had supported her through the journey. Her parents, family, friends, coaches, and teammates were all there to witness the milestone. For Molly, the goal wasn’t just personal—it was a way to celebrate the collective effort that had helped her return to the game she loved.
Molly credits much of her success in overcoming her injury to the support system she had at Mount de Sales Academy. She speaks highly of athletic trainer Lindsey Bray and coaches Kenny Epps and Duane Hunter, whose encouragement and guidance were pivotal during her recovery. Molly also mentions how three of her teammates were navigating similar injuries at the time, which created a sense of camaraderie and shared understanding. Knowing she wasn’t alone made all the difference.
While Mount de Sales played a crucial role in Molly’s athletic development, she also emphasized the importance of the academic foundation it provided. She explained how the small class sizes and close relationships with teachers, as well as challenging courses like Ms. Carlson’s English class, helped her thrive in the classroom. That environment prepared her for the transition to Piedmont University, where she found a similar emphasis on academics and the student-athlete experience. Her coaches at Piedmont University also prioritize academic excellence, reinforcing the lessons she had learned at Mount de Sales.
Reflecting on her journey, Molly shared some valuable insights. She stressed the importance of asking for help and leaning on those around you during tough times. She wants younger athletes facing injuries to know that setbacks don’t define them—they’re just a part of the journey. She encourages others to stay involved in any way they can during recovery and to embrace the process of coming back stronger. Molly’s parting words were simple but powerful: “Everything will work out exactly how it’s meant to.”
Molly’s determination and unwavering faith exemplify what it means to be a true Cavalier. As she prepares for her junior season at Piedmont University, the Mount de Sales community eagerly anticipates watching her continued success on and off the field. Molly Fitzpatrick’s story serves as a testament to the resilience and heart it takes to overcome adversity and emerge stronger than ever.
Everything will work out exactly how it’s meant to.