Travis Ely Collegiate Angler Memorial Scholarship

We are often told, "this will build character", and while most things do just that, I believe that there are a handful of pivotal times where your character isn't just built but changed forever. I come from a family of six from a small town in western North Carolina, and the outdoors have been monumental in the building and refining of my character. My father, Jon Sturgill, is the best sportsman that I have ever met for many reasons. Since I was four, he has been employed by Ducks Unlimited which is a non-profit wetlands conservation organization. Growing up and witnessing firsthand my father's passion as the focal point of his career showed me the true importance of conservation. His dedication to ensure that God's creation would be here for future generations to enjoy is his legacy. My love for the outdoors is a gift that I received from him and one that I will pass on to my children and grandchildren. For me, the outdoors is a refuge of God's purest creation and where many of my favorite memories have been made. On May 21st, 2024 while practicing for a college tournament at Pickwick, I received a phone call from my parents that I will never forget. I found out that my 25 year-old sister, Olivia, had unexpectedly passed away in her sleep due to a medical condition. Almost nine months later, I still find myself in a state of disbelief and longing for comfort in the grief that I will carry for a lifetime. I was competing at the same college tournament that Travis Ely had fished before passing away on his way home from that tournament. I was 20 years old at the time and had no awareness of the weight that his passing carried for his family, teammates, and friends. I also had no idea that my own life would be affected by devastating loss and grief such a short time later. Today at 21, I now share and understand the grief that Travis' family endures daily. In the time without my sister I have learned that grief is the scar that loves leaves. The important thing about a scar is that while it is pain that causes the scar, it is something that I have to show for the love that I have for my sister. How great a gift God has given to us that through Him we are not only promised to meet our Savior but to be reunited with our loved ones in His refuge forever. Until that day comes, I will use the beauty and solitude of the outdoors as my refuge where I recall and relive my fondest memories with my sister. This life changing event has led me to deep personal and spiritual growth. Olivia was a hospice nurse and unequivocally dedicated to the best and most compassionate end-of-life care for each of her patients. Her work ethic has inspired me in everything I do, from school and work to fishing competitively. I realize how quickly life can change in one instant. I have learned that grief and gratitude can coexist. I understand that I choose to exchange every day of my life for whatever I do with my time that particular day. Grief is a lifelong journey that now lies ahead of me. As a result of losing Olivia, I choose to live with intention and am determined to live my life to the fullest, with the same love and compassion that was essential to her. My sister's passing is the pivotal moment when my character changed forever.