Nick Bids Farewell
What a long strange trip it’s been. I can’t even begin to explain what this sport has done for me over the years. I have been playing hockey for over 20 years now, and I grow to love it more and more as I get older. The memories and relationships I have made and the life lessons I have learned through this sport have shaped me into the person I am today. I have been around the world and back to play this game. I am extremely lucky and fortunate to have had these opportunities and experiences. This year will most likely be my last as a competitive hockey player, so having to write this salute will be emotional to say the least.
The past four years have been one wild ride, and boy did it fly by. I remember moving into Old Village 118 with Ketts (Andrew Ketterer), Balks (Austin Balko), and Swift (Trevor Erickson) like it was yesterday. The distinct smell of old paint and 70’s wood paneled walls the first time I walked in will be embedded in my brain forever. The good time parties we had as a team in that village for two years were absolutely hysterical. I can’t believe some of the things we got away with. 3 A.M. with the bass cranked, visits from the R.A.’s multiple times a night, sneaking out windows to avoid write ups, St. Patrick’s Day, redneck parties, Bawitdaba, slip n’ slides, and water balloon fights.
Cheers to that.
First and foremost I want to thank my wonderful parents, Larry and Janice, for basically giving me everything necessary to succeed in this sport. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for their unbelievable support for my hockey career over the years. They drove and flew me 100’s of thousands of miles around the world just to see me play the game I love, and the game they grew to love. They are without a doubt my biggest fans. And of course I want to thank my newest, biggest fan, m’lady Stephenie, for always being there for me and putting up with my crazy antics over the course of the year.
I want to thank the coaching staff for giving me the opportunity to play college hockey. All my teammates for not only supporting me, but for supporting each other, especially the ones I have been with since freshman year. My advice to all the underclassman is to savor the time you have now. Because it will all be over before you know it. By this time next year, or two or three, you will all be wondering where the hell the time went.
These last four years will never be forgotten. It will be something I will look back to my entire life. I’m going to miss all the boys, wing night, Sunday funday, 6 A.M. practice, road trips, crappy bus movies, Elliot and Bobby T’s heart throbbing pump up tunes, court, and my favorite stall mate Scotty Deur just to name a few.
Cheers Again.
