Since I was 8 years old, you have been a consistent companion and guide. Surrounded by the stress and uncertainty of life, I was always at home on the basketball court. Now at the end of my collegiate career, I have felt your absence in so many ways. I miss the smell of the gym and the squeak of my shoes on the hardwood. I miss the excitement of game days, pregame rituals, bus trips through snowy New York, and the joy of sweeping the weekend. I even miss the pain of running in practice, the ache of sore muscles, and the heartbreak of every loss. Above all, I miss my teammates who were my best friends on and off the court. Over the last few months, I have reflected on the lessons you taught me. Each college season my team tried to embody a theme. These simple sayings, repeated countless times during practices and games, summarize the core values I gained from you:
Sophomore: “Win the Day”
Junior: “WoHa” (Work Hard)
If you work hard good things will happen. Success will not be easy; but if you believe in the power of hard work, you will achieve your goals.
Senior: “IYKYK”
No need to explain this one, if you know you know! (Hint: surround yourself with amazing people who support you no matter what.)
Finally, the unofficial slogan of the Vassar College Brewers – Brew Up!
Figure out the best version of yourself and strive to be that person every day.
Now, during this incredibly challenging year for our nation, you have made me very proud. It was basketball conferences and leagues that led the country in recognizing the danger from our sport during the first days of the COVID-19 pandemic. By sacrificing our own playoffs last March, you helped to keep our communities safe. You also led in the fight for social justice, with courageous words and actions that inspired and educated, despite many risks for those players and coaches. Finally, you organized voting, and, like many teams, the Vassar Women are 100% registered. In my first year of medical school, as I continue on the path towards becoming a physician, these qualities support and inspire me to achieve my goals. Thanks for everything basketball, I would not change one minute of our journey together.