Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Athletics

First and foremost, I’d like to thank my family. Mom and Dad, through this crazy journey you’ve been there to drive me around to practices and games, cheer me up after a loss, congratulate me after a win, and even do a little coaching and managing here and there. When soccer became a part of my life it became an even bigger part of yours, and for the countless hours (and dollars), not to mention the many post game phone calls, I owe you big time. It was both of you that kept me going through the rough times and always encouraged me to pursue more, both on and off of the soccer field. Marie, Emily, and Shannon what can I say? You’ve been dragged more places for games and tournaments than most people would care to, but it’s always nice to know, even when you didn’t want to be there, that I had the support of my little sisters on the sidelines. You can bet I’ll be at plenty of your shindigs in the future in an attempt to make up for the hundreds of games you were forced to watch my games. Also, a big thanks to my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins who have made it to so many games. It means the world to me to have such a strong support system. I love you all!

Thank you to my wonderful coaches, both past and present. All of my coaches in the Green Bay area growing up, without you I would still be the little girl picking dandelions. Coach Guinn for bringing me to Saint Mary’s (even if it meant driving through a snowstorm), and even more so for the support and encouragement above and beyond coaching that helped me get through the rough times of those first two years. Coach Dembiec and Coach Zimmerman for stepping in during a chaotic time and bringing us back together as a team. And, a special thank you to Coach Halberg, for sticking with us all four years, through all of the ups and downs, with a constant smile and encouraging word. My soccer experience wouldn’t have been the same without the strong coaches I grew up playing for.
   
To my many teammates, without you all of these crazy years of soccer wouldn’t have been anywhere near as fun. I wish I could thank each of you individually, but I’ll try and keep it short. All of the old folks that have graduated, thank you for being so welcoming and making this experience a positive one. Freshmen don’t get frustrated. Keep working hard and it’ll come. Sophomores, you’re almost half way done. Enjoy it while you can. Juniors, we’ve been through a lot together. Next year you’ll be the ones on top, so make the most of it. My fellow seniors, it’s been one hell of a journey. Erin, you may have joined us late but your hard work has shown. Berg, you’ve been such a solid player for this team and a great role model. Any student you have will be lucky to have you as a teacher. Mess, my injury partner and long lost roomie, it’s been quite a ride. Thanks for all of your support! To my other roomies, Dana and Sibik, it’s been so much fun already and I’m sure it will continue to be the rest of the year! And Paulson, we’ve been through it all. I’m honored to have taken this journey with you and thank you for all of your support (and Dairy Queen runs)!    
   
Lastly, thank you to those friends who have supported me throughout soccer and life. Especially, T, Carol, Kelsi, E, Stacie, Nick and anyone else I’m sure I probably forgot. Your friendships and support have been more than anyone could ask for.