Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Athletics

Let it be known that throughout my four years of college hockey, my parents have not missed one game! They’re absolutely amazing and I’m amazingly lucky to have such fantastic role models in my life.  Honestly though, is it really time to write this thing? I think every senior salute I’ve read has included some version of how time really flies and of course I agree, but what a wonderful journey it’s been.

First to the coaches:

Terry: Whether it’s been listening to me freak out about hockey, school or even my stupidity with cars, thanks for always being there. I apologize for all the sleepless nights us girls have given you these past three years but hey, it’s what we’re good at! Honestly though, you’ve made these past three years worthwhile and I can’t tell you thankful I am that you stepped in to turn this program around.

Coach A: Thanks for all the advice and sticking by me these past four years.  Your knowledge of the game and dedication to this team go through the roof and this program is so fortunate to have you.

Tennie: Your bootcamp was absolutely miserable (I threw up six out of the nine days) but I love you for it! Never have I been pushed that hard but never have I been so proud of myself. I’m so happy to have had the opportunity to be coached by you. I’m sorry you didn’t get to “put your hands up” a few more times, but here’s my very own cheer especially for you! (I think you know the rhythm.) “Tennie … is the coolest … I’ll-miss-you.” Hope I’ve made the old #24 proud. 

Mondo: Thanks for teaching me the history of this program and the work ethic needed to play college hockey. I hope to have been half the leader this year that you’ve been to me in the past … and I think I finally forgive you for taking the state tourney away from me.

To the ones behind the scenes:

Coach F: Not a day in the rink has passed where I haven’t thought about you. I was thinking about running the zamboni into the boards just for old times sake ☺ And that first goal in two years … that was for you. Rest in peace.

Coach Fennern: Even though I never quite made it onto the field, I still view you as a coach and can’t get myself to call you anything else. Thanks for all the support you’ve given this team throughout my journey here. Your effort as AD does not go unnoticed.

Donny Nadeau: You are a huge part of SMU athletics. All the time and effort you put in to each sport with the write ups and recaps is astonishing. Thanks so much for all the great work you do.

Denny: Working at the rink a few summers ago made my respect for you skyrocket. The rink here is something I definitely take pride in and that pride is due to you. Thanks for all the hard work to keep this ice the best in the MIAC.

To “my seniors”:

Moo, Jenna, Gager, Becky, Amers, Maddy, Jung, Rae Rae, Ribish, Mondo: A part of me left with you and I can’t tell you how much I miss seeing you everyday. I gave everything I had this year to continue the legacy you ladies built and I’m so happy to have been a part of it. Thank you for all the support each of you has given me this season but more importantly, for leaving me with such a memorable season last year. All of you are friends for life.  Can we please have a reunion soon?

To my fellow “old ladies”:

Shire: My Cali girl. These four years have been insane and half the memories I probably should not write about ☺. You are such a strong person and for that, I greatly admire you. Never forget: 3H for life.

Jessie: Thanks for being such a great teammate.  You’re one of a kind and I love you for it! I’ll be looking for you on the History Channel.

Girls:

Kryzer: Oh goodness peanut, you make me laugh. So many memories to take with me next year!  I will miss you more than you know. You are so much stronger than you think but I will leave you with one last fact to help you along the way, “Children, because they are shorter, lose heat faster.”

Hadley: You’ll always be my DP. Thanks for being by my side this year. You are a great captain and friend. 

Wiesner: You’re still a senior in my eyes. I’ll miss you. Thanks for all the rides home.

Eisenhauer: Your work ethic and desire to succeed are so admirable. Keep working- things will go your way…and can you please make me a bow to wear with my scrubs in the years to come?

“Nikki” Reynard: Thank God we had this year to become closer! You are such a doll but an even better teammate. Keep me posted on any new updates … you know what I’m talking about.

Lexi: I’m so happy to have been your D partner for most of the year. You’ve blown me away with your talent and I expect you take that confidence into next year!

Jamie: Even though you may be a tad bit taller than me, you’re still my little buddy. You’ve got so much potential kiddo- I expect great things in the future.

To the rest of the team:

It’s been a wild ride but with all the talent on this team, you have the ability to make it far in the years to come. Remember why you’ve started playing this sport in the first place. I can’t wait to see what’s in store.

To friends:

Marianna Sanchez: The best cheerleader we’ve had in all four years! Thanks for all the support; you are absolutely amazing. PS…you have no idea how hard it is not to watch you dance during the games.

LaLa: Laundry baskets and chocolate chip cookies… Thanks for all your hilarious commentating this season. Wish I could have experienced this last year with you.

Tim, Sue and Andrew: You guys are great. From Hill-Murray to SMU, you’ve been there through it all. Thanks for everything you’ve done and said.

James Anthony- You are my rock. For the last year, you’ve been by my side through thick and thin and I don’t think there is anything I could say to thank you enough. Just one little side note, I intentionally let you walk me in intramurals. Don’t plan on it happening again.
And lastly, to my family: 

Dad, Mom and Pat (and the rest of my extended fam)- Don’t even know where to start except for the fact, I can honestly bet I have the greatest family in the world. Dad, you’ve always been my #1 coach and after 12 years, I think I’ve finally learned not to stare at the puck. But more importantly, you’ve taught me hard work and dedication. You’re one incredible man (but even yet, a better dancer) and I respect you more than you know. Mom- my best friend. You’re always so positive, giving me the little boost I’ve needed to continue on. I hope to turn into half the woman you are today. Pat, I can’t believe I’m actually writing this, but thank you for toughing up your little sister since day one. The reason I started playing this game was so that I could be just like my big brother that I am so lucky to have. I hope to have made you three proud. I love you guys more than I could ever tell you.

Thanks SMU … So proud to be a Cardinal.