The Long Blue Line (Spring 2024)

RESERVE
Birds and Van
Alstyne have
chosen a challenge
that requires both
the right training
and the right
attitude.
from sports injuries, switched her career
focus to the field of education, and
continued to motivate others in all her
communities, even at the PSU. Much of the
time, she’s the driving force for shipmates
finding compromise, for her students who
need motivation or calm, or for ensuring
the quieter voices in the room get heard.
U.S. COAST GUARD INFORMATION
It’s a striking contrast to the starkness of
the ring when two opponents are facing
off. When she’s boxing, Van Alstyne may
look like she’s alone, but she’s an example
of what it looks like to have a team of
people behind you in your corner. They
give back the energy that Van Alstyne
gives out so freely.
She’s early in her boxing journey compared
to Birds, but already competing. Her
people-focused nature stays with her in the
ring. According to her uncle, she’s known
for checking on her opponents. Last June,
Van Alstyne attended the Olympic trials in
Pueblo, Colorado. She didn’t qualify. She
was sad but, ultimately, undeterred.
“People had put me in a position to get
there, helping me pave the way. I felt like
I’d let down my community,” she said. “But
you have to embrace those moments,
because those are destiny moments.”
“We had our eyes on the Olympics, but
my thing is this: her journey is not about
a win or a loss, it’s about the experience,”
said Coach Big Lion. “She’s in tune with
the experience, and she’s a tough cookie.
She’s on the road to greatness.”
She and her uncle are back to training,
this time for her pro debut in a career as a
professional boxer.
Birds and Van Alstyne have chosen a
challenge that requires both the right
training and the right attitude. Focusing
on the basics, the training—whether it be
for your civilian or military career—can turn
the tide in any battle.
72 SPRING 2024
THE LONG BLUE LINE