Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Athletics

Growing up, it was hard to imagine graduating from college and getting a “real” job. Where did the last 21 years go? Time truly does fly, but the memories and experiences last forever.  As my senior year comes to a close, many realities hit me. Where will I live, what will I do for a job, what am I going to do without my friends and roommates? One thing I know for sure is the experiences and friendships I have acquired by being a part of the SMU volleyball program will stick with me in the years to come.

Upon graduating from high school, I debated about going out for college athletics. I didn’t know if I would be able to compete on that level, if I would have enough time to study and play, and if it was actually worth the effort and time for myself. Now, as I think back, I couldn’t possibly imagine the last four years without volleyball in my life. I have developed meaningful relationships with teammates and staff during that time. Many of which will be a part of my wedding party this summer. The continual support from campus students and staff was always appreciated and meaningful.

I would like to thank my family for always being encouraging and supportive towards me. At home is where I developed my attitude and love for the sport. My oldest sister played volleyball and I was forced to attend most, if not all of her matches. I guess all those long car rides and hours of volleyball paid off, because this is where I learned to love the sport. Thanks Dad for hitting the ball around out in the drive way with me and sharing your enthusiasm for sports. Mom, thanks for putting up with me playing with the volleyball on the stairs and against the garage all those years. Thanks Grandpa and Grandma for attending as many games as you can. It is great to see you guys supporting me and bringing me goody bags. I love those! And thanks Natalie, Ashley, Tyler, D.J., Phillis, and Dave for coming to games and showing your support through the years. It is a comforting feeling to look up into the crowd at the start of a match or between games to see your familiar faces dressed in St. Mary’s apparel. The six-hour, round trip car rides on Wednesday nights I know weren’t always easy or comfortable, but thanks for making the matches!

I also would like to thank my past and present teammates. T and Carol, graduating seniors of 2009, were a huge part of my volleyball development. They showed me how things were done here at Saint Mary’s, were always pushing me to be better, and displayed great leadership qualities that everyone could learn from.  To the current teammates I play with each and every time I step onto the court, I thank you for your support and friendship. I am glad I got to know each and every one of you girls and your individual personalities. It really means a lot to me that you all are a part in my life. The many memories and inside jokes we share together will never be forgotten and I hope we will continue to make more in the years to come!  On and off the court you all were there for me and I thank you for that.

Another thank you goes out to our coaches. Coach, I think you would agree with me that I have improved as a player as well an individual since my freshman year. A large portion of that is a result of the dedication and knowledge you shared with myself and our team. Tessa, you were always keeping us on task, as well as there to help when we needed you. Ashley, it was always valued when you showed up for practice, ready to help us out in any way possible. I’d also like to thank Rick, my freshman and sophomore assistant coach. You supplied that humor in volleyball that lightened the mood along with offering us your knowledge of the game. I will never forget in D.C. when you thought my hair was a bit big, “Holy hair!” Together, you all helped develop my character as a person and as an athlete, as well as continue to build a great volleyball program at Saint Mary’s.