Men’s soccer captain, aspiring physician named LEC Student-Athlete-of-the-Year

Walter Scudder ’25, a four-year starting midfielder and two-year captain on Eastern Connecticut State University’s men’s soccer team, was named one of three recipients of the Little East Conference (LEC) Student Athlete-of-the-Year Award for the 2024-25 academic year.

The award honors a student-athlete’s commitment to excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in the broader community. Scudder exercised this drive not only through his play, but as a biology major with hopes of becoming a physician.

Through each of his endeavors, which have included volunteering at a school and a hospital in India, earning First-Team All-LEC honors in soccer, and working as a landscaper, Scudder guides himself with the same focus and determination.

“Although it was difficult at times to balance all these aspects of my life, I tried to stay present and focus on the task at hand,” he said. “Whether that was a simple school assignment or competing in the LEC Championship, I tried to focus on the task I was presented with at that time.”

Gratitude and carrying on a family legacy

Gratitude is another value that Scudder holds dearly. “I am extremely thankful for the resources that Eastern provides to help athletes be successful in not only the classroom but also in all aspects of their lives,” he said.

“I had great co-captains, teammates, professors, and coaches who helped support and guide me throughout my journey.”

In 2024, Scudder found another source of gratitude. He volunteered at the Walter Scudder School, founded by his great-great-grandfather and namesake, and the Scudder Memorial Hospital, both in India.

“India was an incredible experience and gave me a special appreciation for what I have in my life,” he said. “Seeing underserved communities made me want to do something where I can really impact people's lives in a positive way with my career.”

He continued: “I will never forget how incredible the doctors were in India, not only technically, but also with how they addressed concerned patients and made them feel better. After this experience, I gained an understanding of the resources I am privileged to have, which motivates me to give back throughout my career.”

Serving with compassion and empathy

As an athlete and an aspiring doctor, Scudder chooses to focus on collective benefit rather than individual achievement.

“Soccer taught me so many skills that are applicable to being a good physician,” he said. “Being involved with a team sport helps you understand the importance of empathy and compassion, which is critical in the medical field.”

He continued: “Being able to understand someone else's viewpoint and position is important for delivering proper care. … As an athlete and a leader of a group, you learn to understand others’ perspectives and determine the best way to address individuals.”

Scudder’s gratitude toward being recognized by the LEC coexists with a hope that other student-athletes will be inspired by his experiences.

“I think this award is evidence that it’s possible to balance several aspects of your life while being a successful athlete,” he said. “I will remember this award as I continue to attack challenging tasks that are presented on my journey toward my goals in life.”

For Scudder, challenges in the near future will include doing research for the UConn Health system, working as an emergency medical technician (EMT), and studying for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).