The four-year participant in field hockey was a key reserve for the Mules the past three years before breaking into the starting lineup her senior season. Her career numbers include six goals, one assist and 13 points.

Yalch was moved to a new position this season, changing from a forward to a midfielder. “I didn’t really like it at first because I was used to being in a scoring position as a forward, and now I found myself moving the ball upfield to set up potential scores. Midfield requires a lot of running as well.” Yalch went on to explain, “The position is really growing on me now, and I enjoy being one of the players who starts scoring opportunities and helping my team succeed in any way possible.”

Yalch has loved every minute of her field hockey career at Muhlenberg, and would not change a thing. “It’s been so much fun,” she proclaimed. “It is very nice to play a sport in college because it gives you a good release from the stress and anxiety that comes along with classes, exams and papers.”

Yalch would know a bit about needing a release from schoolwork. Her hard work ethic as a biology major shows, as she was named to the Centennial Conference Academic Honor Roll last season.

Yalch does not learn about biology only in the classroom, though. She spent last semester studying abroad in Australia. “I loved it,” she said with a big smile on her face. “I got to go sailing, explore the many beaches, feed kangaroos at a sanctuary near the place I was staying and travel up north to beautiful Kacadu National Park. While I was at the park, I saw many beautiful waterfalls and went on a crocodile cruise.” Yalch went on to say, “I even tried surfing! It was a lot tougher than I thought it would be; the waves can really beat you up. Overall, it was a very educational and fun experience.”

The future looks as bright as Yalch’s years spent at Muhlenberg have been. She recently applied for dental school. “I’ve always been interested in the medical profession, particularly the dental field,” she explained. “The hours are more flexible than that of a doctor, and I feel as though I would be able to achieve positive things with a career choice that I will enjoy.”