Sasha Colombo’s decision was torn between her head and her heart.
When the coronavirus pandemic led to the cancellation of spring NCAA sports and mandated online classes at Colorado State, the Italian-born volleyball player was given two options: Return to Milan, where her parents and brother remain sheltered at home, or stay in the United States.
“It’s been a stressful time,” Colombo said. “I don’t want to go home just yet. The situation is more dangerous there at the moment. So, I’m just sticking around here while I can.”
Colombo’s story is familiar to many international student-athletes at the University of Colorado, CSU and NCAA programs across the state.