Tori Neubauer-Muesing (’84)
Sports: Cross Country and Track & Field (1980-84)
Why did you choose UWL?
I chose UWL for the cross country and track & field programs, coached by Gary Wilson. At the time I began looking at schools running was the most important thing in my life. I knew academics were important but I had many goals as a runner and wanted to run professionally and be an Olympian. UWL had strong academics and I chose to focus on therapeutic recreation.
Who influenced you the most during your time at UWL?
Coach Gary Wilson.
How did your undergraduate experience at UWL impact what you are doing in your career now?
I did not pursue therapeutic recreation after graduation as I pursued the opportunity to compete after college as well as trying to become sponsored by Nike. I moved to Eugene, Oregon with hopes to be invited to compete for Athletics West. I returned to Wisconsin after six months and later moved to Minnesota to be near the University of Minnesota to continue to be mentored and coached by Coach Wilson. My plans were to go back to grad school for sports nutrition. I worked at a health club as an instructor and coached high school athletes in track and cross country. Later I began working for MRCI-Mankato in a day program in Chanhassen, Minnesota. I had always had a heart for those with special needs. I continue to work with special needs students for ECCS at the STAR Program which serves 18-21-year old students. My undergrad helped prepare me for my work in the day program as well as my current job of 18 years. I would have to say that my experiences as a student athlete prepared me in many ways for life and being a professional!
What is your fondes memory while being at UWL as a student?
I would have to say my time as a student athlete on the track and cross country teams. The teams were like family and I continue to feel that way after my years away. It’s hard to explain but when I’ve reunited with teammates it’s so special and I feel as though time has not gone by as we can relate and connect! All athletes were treated equally on the teams.
What are you most proud of about your undergrad years now that you have graduated?
I would have to say balancing academics as well as my time for my sports. Setting goals and going after them and not being afraid to compete with the best and at the Division I level in my sports and being successful as at the Division III level as well as Division I.
What advice would you give current UWL student-athletes?
Not to take anything for granted. Enjoy each time you have the opportunity to practice and compete. If you have the opportunity to compete at the national championship level take the experience in and enjoy. I did not take the time to cherish the moments and experiences as I was so focused on competing. My time as a student-athlete made me who I am today thanks to the mentorship of Coach Wilson. I’m so grateful and thankful for all he taught me as well as my teammates. So blessed. I always felt supported at UWL.
Any fun facts or stories you would like to add?
I cherish the opportunities our teams had competing against Division I schools in cross country and track: Drake, Iowa, Iowa State, Minnesota. The conference at the time when I competed included University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, UW-Parkside and Marquette University. Those schools were able to give out scholarships and were not Division III. Competing at the indoor NAIA track meets with athletes who received scholarships for athletics. Proud that UWL competed at a high level in both sports I participated in. Best time of my life was my time as a student-athlete at UWL!
