First and foremost, you knew I needed a team. You understood that I could not become greater without the friendship, mentorship, and leadership opportunities being on a soccer team offers. In seventeen years, you have given me a lifelong best friend and other incredible relationships with teammates. Even if it meant missing countless social events to travel, you understood that I was creating memories and learning how to put the needs of others before the needs of myself. You also understood I would need coaches; coaches that would transcend just their influence on the field. You provided mentors that were not afraid to simultaneously direct and correct how I carried myself as a student-athlete.
I often wonder, how could you have known that from these people I would learn the value in respect and honesty and genuine kindness? You’ve always had quite the eye. Finally, soccer, you have given me a bond with my family, and specifically my sister, that is truly irreplaceable. Starting at just eight, you had her consistently playing up age groups to keep her at my side. Watching her succeed in the game, and even earning a few yellow cards along the way to battle for/with her, inspired me to be better both as a soccer player and as a leader. Truly, being able to play the game we loved together will always stand as the greatest experience you have ever given me. I would give anything to play one more game with her.
Beyond my social interactions, you knew before anyone else the qualities I would acquire throughout my athletic journey. Playing at times on up to four different teams growing up, I learned a lifestyle of efficiency quickly. I had only said amount of hours after school to complete homework until it was time for practice.
To be the student I wanted to be, you knew I would need discipline, consistency, and an admirable work ethic. You did not make my academic life easy because you knew I would need to learn to persevere through stressful times. While sometimes tough, I worked hard to keep up with your demands and consequently feel proud of the student I am today. Quite plainly soccer, you complement all the best and favorite parts about myself. I do not believe I could have the work ethic, the respect I do for teamwork, or other qualities if it wasn’t for you, soccer, insisting I learn them. Even when I didn’t, you always knew that it was the sport that would help me be the best me.
As I reflect and prepare to enter a post-college life without you, I can only thank you. For the obvious aforementioned reasons, you have earned my utmost gratitude. Through every championship, rivalry game, team bonding session, tournament trip and practice, thank you for always knowing and pursuing the person that my childhood-self would be proud to know. You have more than served your purpose in this one life.