On September 11th, 2001, Mari-Rae Sopper was on her way to California, ready to start her job as Head Coach of the women's team at UC Santa Barbara.  Sopper, a former standout at Iowa State, was known as "ISUFan" on the College Gymnastics Board.  She had given up her job as a Navy JAG Corp lawyer to pursue her dream, and to help save the program at UCSB.  She lost her life during the events of that fateful day as the plane she was on was deliberately crashed into the Pentagon.  We pause to remember her spirit and dedication to the sport, and her inspiring effort to pursue her dreams.

This year, a book has been published about her life and dreams:  "Within Her Grasp".  Both print and e-book versions are available.  Amazon Prime subscribers can borrow it for free.     

Our original tribute page:  Link