PASSION and DEDICATION
Passion is a word that can be used in so many contexts. It’s definition: any powerful or compelling emotion or feeling, or: a strong or extravagant fondness, enthusiasm, or desire for anything. Synonyms of Passion are: fervor, zeal, ardor.
Dedication can be defined as: the quality of being devoted or committed to something. Synonyms include: commitment, perseverance, loyalty.
Our two seniors this year have exemplified the words Passion and Dedication in their career here at Saint Mary’s. Whether it was a passion for success in the classroom, or a passion to compete at the highest levels on the volleyball court, Erika and Amy have been a tremendous example for their teammates and peers.
These two individuals have been fixtures in the Cardinal program for four years. They have grown into tremendous leaders, fantastic teammates, and wonderful women. Over their careers they have worked so hard for everything they have achieved. They each have improved so much over their time here, not necessarily through coaching, but through their own work ethic and drive to become great.
Erika, I can still remember when you walked onto campus as a 5’5” OH, full of energy and a desire to prove that height doesn’t mean anything. Though you didn’t say much, it was obvious that you were, shall we say “competitive”. You have meant so much to our program for your entire career. You have been an integral part of so many successful teams here at SMU, including the 2009 NCAA Tournament team. Though your role has changed from year to year, never once have you given up on yourself, your teammates, or our program. You have grown so much over the past four years, but you have never lost that spark in your eye, that desire to compete and be successful. You have a drive to perform, not for yourself, but for your team that is contagious. It is something that every athlete should learn from. Thank you.
Amy, I can see you playing at a club tournament at Eastview HS. Playing for the NOMA Stars I think. I was coaching my club team and we had to play you, and I remember telling my team let’s stop her and see what everyone else on her team can do. I don’t think that we stopped you! From that match I knew that we wanted to have you as part of our volleyball program. Not simply because of your talent as a volleyball player, but because it was obvious then what type of person you were. A wonderful leader, committed to everything that you set your mind to, who would have an amazing impact on the SMU community. Believe me you have done that, our team, our athletic department, and our University are better because you chose to spend four years with us. I know that your senior season didn’t end the way you had hoped, but don’t ever doubt the impact you have had on this team this year!!! Thank you for fighting through injury, for persevering in the face of obstacles, and having a passion for your teammates.
These two young women have meant so much to this program. Their passion for the sport they love makes them wonderful mentors and teammates. Their dedication to their academics makes them fantastic representatives of our program. I, as their coach look up to them everyday for the way they not only balance everything in their lives, but the level at which they succeed in all of their endeavors.
Erika and Amy THANK YOU for EVERYTHING you have done for this University and OUR volleyball program.
Coach Lester |
