By: Taylor Burton | Staff Writer
Collegiate dual-sport athletes are uncommon, as many coaches hesitate to risk losing a player’s full focus on one team. Balancing two sports demands not only physical endurance but also mental resilience.
Yet, at the University of Lynchburg, several student-athletes are defying the odds by playing on two teams.
Junior Stefan Kapitanov is one of these standout athletes. He was recruited to the University of Lynchburg to play goalie for the men’s soccer team, but during volleyball’s debut 2025 season, he knew he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to play the other sport he loves.
“Growing up, I always played both, and coming into college, I just focused on soccer, and volleyball took the back seat, but when the volleyball program got created, I talked to the coaches, it was an easy transition,” said Kapitanov.
Even though playing two sports can be time-consuming and sometimes stressful, Kapitanov still believes the most important part is finding the fun in it every day.
“It’s definitely a big balance and a big test every day, but playing both sports is a lot of fun, and I would recommend it to younger athletes.”
For Peyton Radford, a freshman on both the equestrian and lacrosse teams, her coaches have been a big support system in balancing both sports. Since equestrianism is year-round, there is some overlap between the two.
“They are both so supportive, they like me doing both, they think it’s an incredible opportunity for me. The key is just being a big communicator with them and always talking to them,” she said.
Burnout is common among dual-sport athletes, as it is easy to become overwhelmed from juggling both sports.
“I’ve definitely gained strong time management skills and learned how to organize and fit everything into my day well. And I have also focused on finding the fun in everything I do, and making time for my friends,” Radford said.
Selah Parker is a sophomore athlete competing in both women’s basketball and on the track and field team. For her, the ability to continue playing both sports has helped her grow both athletically and mentally.
“Mentally, I feel like I have gained not taking things too much to heart, and that life is more than just your sport so just living in the moment to actually enjoy the sports that I’m doing is a blessing itself. Physically, I feel like I have gotten stronger each year,” said Parker
As these athletes take on their seasons, their mindsets have all played a crucial role in how they manage the busy lifestyles they have chosen and fallen in love with.
For more information about Lynchburg athletics, visit their website.
Very informative article. Well written, thank you for the knowledge.