Since I was a freshman, I never thought I would make it this far in my collegiate career, but somehow I did. Freshman year seems so long ago, but the years have flown by and soccer is coming to an end. Coming in with 15 freshmen, I thought all of us would last, but things change and you have to appreciate what you have. Now, 35 freshmen come in and the whole program has changed St. Mary’s Soccer from what it once was to what it will become. The program has changed for the better and these freshmen have a chance to become champions under Coach Watkins and Drew. I am glad to see the change in our program, and I am grateful to be a part of the program, but I will always cherish the memories with previous and present players.
My family has been the reason I kept playing soccer and I owe everything to them. Mom: Thank you for everything that you have done for me. I always looked on you for support when I was sick of school or tired of doing homework, and I am glad I had you as a mother. Dad: Thank you for taking me to my games as a little kid until I was in high school. You were always there to watch my soccer games and you continue to support me now. Mom and dad thank you for supporting me all these years, and being on the sideline for me. You both have been there for me in my soccer career and I really appreciate all you have done for me, and for that I am grateful.
I cannot forget the rest of my family because they have also been a huge part of my soccer career. Gammy & Papa: Thank you for all that you two have done for me when it comes to soccer and being there for me. I always appreciate talking to you both on the phone, and I gammy, keep sending those care packages. Connor: You and I have been through thick and thin together, but at the end, we ended up pretty well. Keep pursuing your dream of playing college lacrosse, and I know you’ll do great wherever you go.
Over the years I have played with some great players, and I am glad I had the chance to play with those people. Two people in particular had an important role in my career: Neu and Jua. Neu: First, let’s not forget who won in the beep test… twice, but those were good competitions. Each year I learned from you that every day is a competition, but take it with joy. You pushed me to become a much better player than I once was, and I am glad you became an assistant coach this year. Jua: alright legggo, when I first came to SMU I thought you were the star of the team, and I kept believing that until you graduated. I was excited to play with you all last season, and I learned a lot from you. Thank you both for helping my career, and making me a better player.
These four years have flown by, and there have been so many great memories with all of the guys. Great White: Boy o boy where to begin with you. You have been a piece of work for the past four years, but man have the years been fun. Living next to Bina, Andrew, you, Meyer, Ji Hoon, Colin was built for a fun time. I know the year has been rough, but you have me as a sleeping bag buddy. Meyer: I consider you as the sixth senior and I wish you were with us this year. The years have been so much fun, and let’s get back in the car like freshman year again eh? Bina: It has been a lot of fun to play with you the past four years, and yes you are going to pay for what you did freshman year. I remember that, and all the other good times we had together on and off the field, but we need to commit “the stupidest crime ever” one more time. Muscle Hamster: Georgia.. Georgia.. man it’s been some good times with you. You were always a reason to continue playing because of your passion and dedication for the game. Let’s not forget two things though: 1.) Messi is worse than Ronaldo. 2.) never let Meyer in your car again. Gunnar: you are seriously the biggest duster I know. Man you really are the comedian of the team and without you I would not have much fun. This year was rough, but we can slip into the darknessss together!
To all you younger guys, it has been a blast and I am glad that we have shared some great memories together. Highlighter: It has been such a fun time with you! I’m glad that you decided to come back and play this year. You have always been an interesting person, and keep those dreads for as long as you can. Van Dam: you already know what I will say, but keep working hard. You have always been a lot of fun to be around. Graber: you are one of the best players I have seen, but keep working hard. P.s. I will get that sweatshirt back. Geidner: well… you are a character, and I am glad you set an example for next year haha. Asa: you may look like you never shower in the morning for road games, but that doesn’t display the soccer player you are. You are a great defender, and I hope you keep playing with the passion you have. Cody: I hope to see you on the streets more often. Balda: Keep playing like you do and one day you can have a varsity spot. You work hard and it’s great to hear you yelling for the ball every 5 seconds. To those I did not mention: I wish all of you the best at SMU and wherever you go from here. I wish I could write about everyone in here because it has been a pleasure getting to know everyone.
Soccer has come to an end, but this is only the beginning for what comes next. I wish Saint Mary’s Soccer the best, and I hope this program keeps changing. Everyone that has played for SMU will know that under Coach Watkins, SMU soccer changed its direction. I will never forget the memories I have shared with everyone and I hope for the best.
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