Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Athletics

Four years ago, I thought I would never see this day.  After going through those first nine months of off-season which was mostly spent in the RAC, the thousands of times we did form-running, all the hours and hard work we put in to practicing just for less than two months of season a year; I did not think I could take anymore.  But who am I kidding, like I ever pictured myself quitting the team either.  The day is finally here where I have to say thank-you and goodbye to Saint Mary’s fastpitch softball and all those who have helped me along the way. 

Let me begin with the people that got me started.  Mom and Dad, I thank you for putting that bat in my hands 20 years ago, rather than a golf club or a hockey stick.  Those millions of hours playing ball in the front yard all these years actually paid off.  You two (I guess Adam and Derick, too) are truly responsible for my success in life, both athletically and academically.  You have showed me that dedication, ambition and hard work really do pay off.  Starting in high school and continuing through college, I would always look for that vehicle to pull up to the game so I’d know I have my two biggest fans’ support, even though it was usually around the second or third inning when you got there.   I really appreciate your dedication in coming to every single one of my collegiate games, even on our spring trips.  I value your opinions and critiques after the game, because you are not afraid to tell me like it is.  Thank you so much!

Coach Fennern, I thank you for transforming me from a decent high school player to the collegiate athlete I am today.  I knew when I told you my freshman year that I did not know how to bunt, it was going to be a long season.  But look at me now, that is my main form of getting on base.  You made the transformation from high school softball to college fastpitch a shocking, but phenomenal experience. 

C’ Bray, I thank you for accepting me on your summer ball team even though you knew absolutely nothing about me.  I learned a great deal from you those seasons and you helped me know what to expect my freshmen year at SMU.  I am also so glad I got the opportunity to play under you here for three years.  You have showed me great inspiration and encouragement and I always make it a goal of mine to pay you a little visit at first base. 

Miller, you have one heck of a personality.  You often wear your emotions on your  sleeve, which makes it easy to tell what kind of practice it will be that day.  Do I dare ask to play dodgeball or tag for a warm-up, or do we just take a couple laps and not ask questions?  I’m glad I could partake in your transition from assistant to head coach.  You played under the best, you coached under the best, and now you coach the best … us!  I will miss being able to come to you with any problem, personal or team related.  I will also miss your sense of humor, but most of all, I will miss being part of your team.

Teammates…Bood, my lonely fellow senior.  It has been an honor to play next to you these past four years.  I was glad to have the opportunity of growing into the college athletes we are today together with you.  You are an amazing athlete, friend, and I know you will make a great cop someday soon.  Good luck!

McGraw, EEEE, and Pulvy, the previous three years were forever memorable.  I absolutely love each and every one of you and your personalities.  I missed your presence on the team this year but am glad that we were able to get the opportunity to grow friendships together that will last forever.  Thesing, even though it took three years of playing together to actually become friends, I treasure your friendship and insight on the game.  

The juniors, you two have a lot of talent and potential.  You are both leaders in your own way and will make great leaders next year as well.  Ang, it has been an amazing experience playing with you for five seasons now and I will miss how well we get a long and how alike we think when it comes to certain things.

Sophomores, you are collectively one of the most talented classes I have ever seen. I treasure your athletic abilities and truly feel honored to have had the chance to play with you for two years.  Plus, your open mindedness and random thought processes never allow for a dull moment on the team.  Kellie, I love you like family!  You are a great leader on the team and one of my role models.  I can always count on you to pick teammates up, especially myself, if they are having an off day.  Jill, I will miss your great positive attitude and always having someone to sit by after the games.  I know I can come to you two with anything and you will show me the brighter side of the matter.

Freshmen, my only fault with you is that I only got the chance to get to know you for one year.  There is not a single one of you that I do not see potential in.  My advice is to hang in there and soak in every learning opportunity that this team can offer.  Sam, it was great getting the chance to play with you once again.  I love to reminisce about Randolph with you. 

Matt, thanks for your support and constructive criticism all these years.  Thank you to all of you that have the under-appreciated responsibilities with SMU softball; especially Donny, Ambjor, the other athletic trainers, and all the student workers.   Past players, thank you for taking the time to help me improve every day at practice.  Thanks to the parents and students that come to support our team, you do not know how much that means to us.  Thank you to anyone and everyone that has had involvement in making these four years a forever great and memorable experience.