BLUEFIELD -- Bluefield State College Women's Soccer team announced the retirement of the number 19 jersey on May 3 at 9:00 a.m for the remainder of program history. 

The announcement by the Big Blue hopes to draw light on the mental health challenges facing student-athletes, and give support to those who need it while also marking the memory of student-athletes who have lost their lives to suicide. 

The selection of number 19 comes after the news of the passing of Katie Meyer, the Stanford soccer goalkeeper who wore the number 19, who lost her life to suicide on March 1st, 2022. In recent weeks, there has been several other NCAA athletes which have lost their lives to suicide. 

The Big Blue plan on replacing the 19 in their soccer roster with links and resources for mental health awareness and support. The school itself has student support services available 24/7 to all students. 

 "As a new program coming together at the peak of the Covid pandemic, it's been a challenge for all of us to manage our mental health. We hope that today's jersey retirement provides a reminder to all that it's okay to not be ok and there's professional help out there within close reach." Said Head Women's Soccer Coach, Scott Forster.

Bluefield State women's soccer moves into their second season in fall 2022 after a successful inaugural season. The team ranked 5th in the USCAA national championship while placing nine players on the School's Presidents list for academic success. 

The women's soccer team will be auctioning off the number 19 jersey. All proceeds will go to the American society for the prevention of suicide. All interested parties should contact head coach, Scott Forster.