Anya Alvarez had a profound impact on young lives

Anya Alvarez had a profound impact on young lives

Washington's Anya Alvarez has had a profound impact on young lives that extends well beyond her sport.A victim of sexual violence in her youth, Alvarez has used that life-altering experience as a platform to advocate against teen dating violence and abuse and for healthy relationships.She has spoken at high schools, has counseled teenagers and women, has appeared on the Dr. Phil television show and other broadcasts, regularly writes Rory McIlroy Was Not Ready To Win Mastersadvice and counseling articles for a website called Twodaymag.com and is embarking on a book project.Alvarez has talked publicly about being molested by a family friend when she was 9 years old and being raped at 16 by an acquaintance she had met just a couple of times.Shortly after the second incident, while in Idaho for a U.S. Golf Association junior girls tournament, Alvarez was encouraged by a counselor she met there to tell her story.

"Everyone experiences pain at some point in their lives. I think writing about your experiences — journaling, getting counseling — it's a huge thing for women and for men, too. Because you might not feel the effects (of abuse) right away. But there are what are called sleeper effects, where issues can crop up years later. So it's important to address things the right way when it's fresh in your mind. I'm a believer that time does heal things, but you have to take action at the same time."Sometimes it can be very hard for victims of abuse to show trust after going through such trauma, Alvarez says."It's important for women who have been sexually abused to know that all men aren't evil. Sometimes, you just run into the wrong person." Starting Thursday, the Washington Huskies, who have been led this season by Alvarez, will host 23 other teams in the three-day NCAA West Regional at the Washington National Golf Club in Auburn, Wash. The Huskies are seeded 13th in the regional.