So, I was trying to figure out how to format this salute and I thought a perfect way of describing my experience with the Saint Mary’s tennis team would be to go through the 5 W’s: What, Where, When, Who, and Why. That way I cover as many aspects as possible. So here it goes.
What?
Saint Mary’s University Women’s Tennis Team. A team composed of 12 individuals fighting for one goal – success. For five months out of the year, this team devotes time and effort to create a family, to better themselves, to challenge themselves, and to compete.
Where?
Winona Tennis Center. A location that is a leisurely drive away from Saint Mary’s campus. We claim that this is the reason we don’t have many fans come to watch us, but let’s be honest, most people at Saint Mary’s don’t even understand the scoring enough to know if we were winning or losing anyways. It’s also a place that conveniently accentuates the weather outside. If it’s warm outside, it’s a sauna in the tennis center. If it’s cold outside, it’s an ice box. But let’s be honest, the weather is always perfect on match day.
Not only the tennis center, but across the state and country. Plane, bus, van, and RV have taken us to so many destinations. Not always comfortably, but they got us from point A to point B. It was these trips that drew the team closer. It’s these trips that I’ll miss the most. Long car rides playing stupid driving games, singing and dancing, watching for the clock tower to show itself around the corner of the bluffs, and most of all annoying Bailey in any way I could. It’s these trips that made the team my family.
When?
The past four years and beyond. I think I would be limiting my experience if I hold my time with the Saint Mary’s tennis team to just four years. It’s something that has made me who I am. It has taught me perseverance, hard work, teamwork, and fun that I will bring with me. It has taught me that it doesn’t matter if you win or lose, as long as you better yourself. It has taught me that no matter how big the mountain in front of you, you can conquer it if you have the heart. I will always remember the mountains that I faced in these last four years and I look forward to the mountains in the future.
Who?
The team. For all of the people that I have had the blessing of playing with on this team, I want you to know that I consider you my family; a dysfunctional family at times, but family none the less. We’ve been through ups and downs together. We’ve battled the numerous beep tests and the impenetrable wall of Gustavus. We’ve shared countless meals together and numerous wins. To all of you, you will always be my teammate and have a place in my heart.
Bailey — You and I were the only ones to make it through all four years. Congratulations! It’s been great being able to annoy you all of these years. Sorry ‘bout it! ? But really, I have loved these past four years with you. You are a wonderful tennis player and you have a big heart. Be safe wherever you end up next year and don’t forget to make time for studying among all of those “chill” nights.
Killian — Doubles partner! It’s been great being able to play with you this past year. You make a great partner. Even during my singles matches you were always there to pick me up and help me through it. Keep working hard and keep that wonderful sense of humor that you have. Sarcasm is the way to my heart, so you’ve easily worked your way into it.
Tina — The highlight of my junior year was being able to share a room with you in the lovely Saint Yon’s dorm. I know this year has been a busy one for you, but I hope that you never lose your zest for life. In other words, always have a bucket of toys wherever life takes you. I have no other word to describe you than awesome. You’re awesome Tina; never forget it.
Rachel — When I think of my time with you, all that comes to mind is sugar, pizza, and skipping. All of these things represent the joy you bring to those around you. I admire you for your love of life. Always keep smiling and keep working hard.
Deanne — You are inspirational. I have absolutely loved watching you grow in tennis the last few years. Keep growing. You will be unstoppable if you do. Beyond the tennis court, I have also loved getting to know you. I am proud to call you my friend. And of course, keep dancing. ?
Grace — One of my favorite things about you is that despite any differences you have from those on the team, you have stayed true to yourself. Even when everyone in your car complains about screamo music, you don’t change it. That takes guts and I admire that. I have also loved having you as a doubles partner. I think we make a pretty, darn good team if I do say so myself.
McKennah — I don’t even know where to start. I can’t. I guess if I had one word to describe you it would be “cool”. You don’t let things faze you. You roll with the punches and most of the time, you end up on top. I have absolutely loved hanging out with you this past year. I think you are hilarious and incredibly easy to be around. I wish you nothing but best these next few years.
Lexie — You are a fighter. I can see the passion and heart that you have for tennis and I know that you will make huge strides during your four years. Keep working hard and never give up on yourself. I have loved getting to know you this year and I wish you all the best in your college years.
Lindsey — I like to call you the backboard. You fight for every point and I have to say I have enjoyed watching your opponents go nuts playing you. It has been a pleasure having you on the team and I know you will be amazing in the next few years.
Abby — I’m expecting you to uphold the namesake. There has been an Abby on the team for the last seven years and I am glad to see that you are taking over the honor. You are a wonderful candidate for the job. I have to say that I have loved your heart for the game. I have seen you grow so much in the last year and I haven’t heard you complain once. I admire you for your perseverance and hard work.
Stacey — You are probably one of the fastest people I’ve met. You make me look like a tortoise. Besides your insane speed, I have loved having you on the team this year. You have been such a positive part of this dysfunctional family.
Coaches — Thank you for all that you have given me the past four years. You have been an amazing support throughout my college career. You have challenged me when I need to be challenged, and you have made me laugh when I need to laugh. Keep pushing these ladies hard. They may groan about it, but if they’re anything like me, they’ll appreciate it in the end.
Why?
I didn’t get recruited for any sport in high school. I decided early on that I was going to be a walk-on wherever I went. When I came to Saint Mary’s I had a decision to make; should I join softball or tennis. I can’t tell you why I chose tennis, but I can tell you that I’m happy I did. It’s been an amazing four years and I couldn’t have asked for more. I have made some of my best friends on the tennis team; people who are the complete opposite of me (yeah that’s you Dre) and I have grown so much.
So, I leave you with this:
Remember to always have fun and appreciate the time you have with one another; it goes fast. I love everyone that I have encountered because of SMU tennis. Thank you again to the coaches. Thank you to my family for always supporting me. Thank you to Laurie Edwards for always feeding me and making me smile. Thank you to all of my friends who have encouraged me this year. And thank you to the team. …
LET’S GO!
— Abby |
