Spotlight
How Tennis Shaped Mason Pitcher’s Student and Mission Experience
While exploring college options after graduating from high school, Mason Pitcher (‘27) found himself drawn to Southern Virginia University because it not only provided him the opportunity to continue playing tennis, but also allowed him to stay closely connected with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, an essential factor for him.
“The faith-based aspect of the school has helped me grow spiritually in ways I didn’t expect. I’ve learned to trust in God more and to rely on Him through difficult times,” Pitcher said. “I’ve also grown physically and mentally. The confidence I’ve gained here at Southern Virginia will help me in the future.”
From Bismarck, North Dakota, a highlight for Pitcher was when the tennis team won their championship during his freshman year. Being a member of the tennis team not only provided him with a sense of belonging and support, but it was also through his teammates that Pitcher’s decision to serve a mission was shaped.
“It was crazy. We were all so excited when we won, I’ll never forget running onto the court and jumping up and down with my teammates,” said Pitcher. “That moment was so special, and the bond we formed that year was unforgettable. A lot of my lifelong friends are from that team, and they were the ones who helped me decide to serve a mission because of their examples and stories from their own missions.”
Pitcher took a two-year break from his academic studies after his freshman year to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mexico. Although initially fully committed to returning to campus to continue playing tennis and attending classes with his brother, Pitcher found himself wondering if he should stay or transfer to another school after the Spring 2025 semester began.
“About a month after the semester started, I went to a Welcome Back devotional that the Institute hosted, and it made me realize there are still people I need to meet, things I need to learn, and memories to make here,” said Pitcher. “I’ve realized this is the place I’m supposed to be, and I love it here.”
Studying business, participating in esports and tennis, and working in athletics have provided Pitcher with continuous spiritual and academic experiences that have strengthened his testimony of Jesus Christ.
“I’ve drawn closer to God through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Even in my hardest moments, knowing that Christ has gone through it all has really helped me,” Pitcher said. “I’ve also learned that being around people who share your beliefs, like my teammates and friends here, makes a huge difference.”
“I’ve made so many great memories here that I couldn’t have made anywhere else,” Pitcher continued. “From the sports games to the Student Life activities, everything about Southern Virginia has made me feel that I am exactly where I’m supposed to be.”