This is Sideline Stories. A platform where NE10 student-athletes can share their collegiate experiences in an unfiltered environment - using their voices to promote growth and positive change in our league and in all of NCAA Division II athletics.

Kelsey Shaw, a senior guard on the Stonehill women's basketball team, had her final season cut short after winning an NE10 Championship. Despite an NCAA Tournament run that ended before it started, she is extremely grateful for her time as a Skyhawk. Here is her Sideline Story:

I knew it would end soon, but not this soon and not in this way.

Like many other collegiate athletes, we dedicate years into the sport that we love in an effort to fulfill our dreams. As a girl living on an island off the coast of Maine, the odds weren’t necessarily in my favor.

My parents sacrificed, driving me three hours back-and-forth to practice, twice a week, to be a part of an AAU program called the Maine Firecrackers. This allowed me to be surrounded with like-minded people, which only strengthened my passion and desire to become a college athlete.

I owe much of my success to Coach Clement who saw my potential and welcomed me with open arms into a program that gave me remarkable opportunities and lifelong friends

Known for its success off the court and competitiveness on the court, I knew without a doubt I wanted to continue my career playing in the NE10 Conference.

I am so grateful that Coach Brown allowed my dream to become a reality at Stonehill College. Like many, my four years were full of highs and lows.

You go in freshman year with many unknowns, but with a willingness to work hard. Right from the start, the upperclassmen laid the foundation of what it took to be great leaders and to make an impact in the program.

Every day presented a new challenge, but it allowed me to grow as a person and a player. I learned many lessons that resulted in anything from running sprints to cutting down nets, and I wouldn’t change a thing.

To the teammates that quickly became my family, thank you. I wouldn’t have wanted to share my experience with anyone else and because of all of you, I understand the impact of commitment, determination, and selflessness.

I gave everything I could to this program, and in return, I gained so much more than I could have imagined. An Elite 8 appearance, three NCAA tournaments, an NE10 Championship and two regular season championships later, my college career has come to an end.

I have gained a forever family and would do anything to play one more game in front of the best fans. To my teammates, coaches, and family, thank you. I am so grateful for the impact that you have made throughout my journey.

-Kelsey Shaw