A Word From Coach Cassidy

Seniors – First and foremost, I want to thank you all as individuals, but also as a group — you have made an impact on this program that will never be forgotten. You have been leaders for this team and the positive impact you have had on your fellow team mates has been inspiring. You have continued the theme of family that is the foundation of this program. Personally it has been an honor to have known you and my life is better after having each of you in it. Please take the “is uz” with you and know that I am always here for you, no matter what the future holds. I would be a very happy father if any of my girls grew up to be like you!!

Sloane Kuramoto
I first coached you when you were starting your competitive career as a wee one, your love of the game was as clear 10 years ago as it is today. You have a passion for the game that is intoxicating and I am so happy that I had the opportunity to coach and get to know you on more of a deeper level. You are known as the ‘mother’ of the team for good reason – You are quiet, unassuming and are always there for anyone, including me and for that I thank you. However, you do have a smile and a laugh that make the dreariest of days bright and joyful. I am going to miss hearing your laugh before practices while you are in the training room and our little catch up chats before every session and game. You have a very bright future ahead of you and I am looking forward to seeing you accomplish your dreams. Thank you for everything you have done for the SMU Women’s Soccer program.

Miranda Cole
I am so happy that you made the decision to transfer and even happier that you came out to play soccer. You have shown your dedication to this team and to individual players time and again and I appreciate your willingness to step into a position that you have not had much experience playing. Your personality is illuminating and your team first me second attitude is the culture that you have helped create on this team and that will never be forgotten. Off the field your wit and humor is something I can relate to, you always have the right thing to say at the right time (most of the time ?). I know last season was a tough season for you in more ways than one, but it shows what type of character you are by the way you handled it and the way you grew. Your future has endless possibilities and from a selfish point of view, I am hoping that you will work and live in Rochester. Thank you for everything you have done for the SMU Women’s Soccer program

Kate Rivers
You were the one person that made me feel at total ease on the first day of pre-season last year. You welcomed me with a big unexpected hug and that did more for me than you will ever know. I know your senior year was not the senior year you were hoping for, but your reaction and dedication to this team has been immense. You were voted captain for a reason and you have taken great pride in that role and have impacted so many lives in a positive way. On the field, you are a warrior and a leader, playing without an acl for the majority of last season and doing the things you did was amazing!! I have really enjoyed getting to know you as a person and I am going to miss you peering around the door and our chats about random topics. You are so approachable, caring and giving and the caring profession that you are working towards could not be a better fit. You have the traits and character to do wonderful things in your life and I look forward to being a part of it after you graduate. Thank you for everything you have done for the SMU Women’s Soccer program.

So, seniors, thank you once again for all that you do, have done and will continue to do, to be the fine ambassadors for our Women’s Soccer Program. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for each one of you and please know that we as a family will always be here for you.