This month on Journey to June, we’re diving into the world of college athletics—exploring the grit, dedication, and resilience it takes to succeed on and off the field.

My guest this week is Kerstin Kimel, head coach of Duke’s women’s lacrosse team. You might remember Amanda Paci, who joined us earlier this month—Kerstin is the coach who is guiding her journey, and today, we get to hear the stories and philosophies behind her incredible career.

Our conversation dives deep into the ever-changing world of college sports. Kerstin opens up about the pressures facing today’s young athletes and their families, especially in a time when “FOMO” can drive decisions in youth sports. She shares how she recruits players who are not only top-notch on the field but also committed to thriving in the demanding academic environment at Duke.

Beyond her impressive career, Kerstin’s personal journey, including her courageous battle with breast cancer, reveals her unwavering resilience. She reflects on the lessons learned from her own challenges, emphasizing the power of grit and adaptability in both sports and life. Her coaching philosophy shines through as she talks about the importance of fairness, setting boundaries, and nurturing the growth of her athletes, both as players and as people.

To learn more and to follow Duke’s Women’s Lacrosse season, visit: https://goduke.com/sports/womens-lacrosse