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Aurielle

D3 Week Athlete Feature: Aurielle Brunner

Chatham senior Aurielle Brunner is the most decorated athlete in school history, with seven All-America finishes in her Track & Field career and a PAC championship in Women's Basketball, and she's not done yet. 

Brunner, who still has one Outdoor Track & Field season remaining, has previously qualified for the NCAA Championship meet in high jump, long jump, triple jump, heptathlon and pentathlon and has earned All-America status in all but the high jump and pentathlon. She finished as the national runner-up in the long jump during this year's Indoor Track & Field season and sixth place in the triple jump.

In Women's Basketball, Brunner was named PAC Defensive Player of the Year in 2023-24 after ranking in the top five nationally in steals. She is currently the program's single-season and career record holder in steals. She competed in Women's Soccer this past fall, recording 3 starts in 16 games played.

Read Aurielle's thoughts about Chatham and D3 athletics:

Why did you choose to play D3 athletics?
"I chose to go D3 because, while I love all my sports, I am here for a degree first. I didn't want to feel "owned" in my sports, as it can happen in D1 or D2, where schedules are stricter and there isn't much time to be a college student at times. At the D3 level, I can compete at a high level without my entire college experience revolving around athletics (even though I am an athlete in all seasons). This level allows me to balance being a student and an athlete, by giving me the challenging competition that I was looking for with the flexibility to enjoy college beyond athletics."

What do you enjoy most about playing in D3 athletics?
"As I already said before, D3 athletics gives me the balance of being a student and an athlete. I have time for academics, social life, and other interests outside of my sports. Although being contacted by higher divisions in my recruiting process, D3 gave me the opportunity to compete at a level that I probably wouldn't have anywise. I believe that there aren't many differences in the divisions, so every competition is all its played to its fullest with athletes giving it their all."

What would you say to someone interested in competing at the D3 level?
"My advice would be to just go for it. If you truly love your sport, it doesn't matter the division because at the end of the day you're doing what makes you happy. D3 gives you the chance to compete seriously, while still focusing on your education and other key parts of college life. All you have to do is show up, stay consistent, and don't be afraid to outshine others."

Why did you choose Chatham?
"I originally chose to go to Chatham for basketball but then added a few sports here and there. Having grown up an hour and 45 minutes away from Pittsburgh, I was familiar with the city and fell in love at an early age. I liked how close Chatham is to the city, and all the opportunities that are around it. I also liked how close to home it was, which meant I could go home for important family events and my family could come to all of my games/meets."

How has Chatham set you up for success, both athletically and academically? 
"Chatham has set me up for success both athletically and academically by creating an environment where I can thrive in both areas without having to sacrifice one for another. The coaches are very supportive and understand that academics come first. The professors are also very supportive and are always there if we need extra help. They understand our busy schedules and move things around in order for us to succeed."
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