“Be joyful in hope,
patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” ~ Romans 12:12
She had a career most young female
athletes would envy.
Growing up, Lexi loved playing competitive soccer, helping
her team win back-to-back state titles. But she literally outgrew the sport before
her 12th birthday due to her height (5’10”). So, her parents encouraged
her to give volleyball a try.
By the eighth grade, she was heavily recruited by the NCAA’s
top volleyball programs. Lexi became the country’s 1 recruit after finishing
her prep career with a record 2,813 kills.
But Texas’ program and culture weren’t suited to her. She transferred
to the University of Nebraska for her sophomore year, confident that “God had a
better plan! The Husker program was a perfect fit – it became her second home.
Sidelined with an upper-body injury, Lexi missed her first several matches at Nebraska. Then COVID hit. Everything, including volleyball, shut down. A promising relationship dissolved.
The earthly things important to
her had been stripped away.
Her focus shifted to Jesus. Growing
up in a Christian home, faith had always been a part of her life but it wasn’t
until she faced such personal hardships that her faith grew more active and authentic.
“Through all life’s ups and downs, God’s consistency kept me grounded, both
on and off the court,” she said. Her faith caught fire; she “burned” with
enthusiasm.
Lexi helped the Cornhuskers defeat #2 Texas and #3
Pittsburgh in the 2021 NCAA Tournament to reach the school's tenth national
title match. Their five-set loss to Wisconsin set a new NCAA volleyball
attendance record.
But in her final year of eligibility, the Huskers’ two-time,
first-team All-Big 10, outside hitter was relegated to a supporting role,
coming off the bench during most of the season. Some might have pouted; others
may have quit. But, with grace, sincerity, and love, she became the team’s spiritual
leader and used her position to share her Christian faith and glorify God.
“Even though I wasn’t getting as much playing time, seeing
my teammates grow spiritually made my final year amazing. Volleyball was a
great way for me to thank God for the talents He blessed me with. So, I made it
my goal to make Him better known!”
Lexi Sun currently lives in California, finishing her
master’s degree while also providing full-time care for her 91-year-old
grandmother with dementia. She frequently speaks to young athletes about her
experiences, encouraging them to understand their reason for playing their sport.
“Despite the success I had on the court, the greatest satisfaction was in giving
my life to Christ and sharing my faith with others.”
“Dear God, thank You for this gift of life
that I’ve done nothing to deserve. Humble me. I’m only here because of You, the
least I can do is live my life for You.” ~ Lexi Sun
