Where do I even begin? You have shaped every aspect of my life. It all began as the younger sister trying on her brother’s gear. Wanting to emulate my older brother at a young age led me to the game I was able to make my own. The triumphs and downfalls experienced throughout all my years on the ice have allowed me to grow into the person I am today. You have instilled countless values in me, from time management, to work ethic, to leadership, to the requirement to always approach every aspect of life wholeheartedly. You have taught me to believe in myself and work to make my dreams come true. Even when failures occurred, you taught me that the only way to move forward was to continue trying. You taught me that giving up was not an option and that failures can lead to the greatest success stories.
I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience my dream of being a collegiate athlete. The four years in Duluth, MN allowed me to experience an atmosphere nothing like my hometown and meet lifelong friends. There is nothing quite like hearing the Duluth Bridge foghorn ringing throughout Mars Lakeview Arena when the Saints scored a goal or the cheers of my friends after making a big save. Being a goalie was often so second nature that I would forget the privilege I had, but every so often a big save would remind me of the many blessings you bestowed upon me. Being a goalie taught me to continually look forward to the next shot, or the next challenge in life.
You have taught me to learn from the past, but focus on the future. Countless fond memories exist because of you. You have provided me with a family, a home and a love throughout the past 16 years. I am so grateful that little 5-year-old girl picked up a stick and never looked back. Thank you for always being my safe place and allowing me to learn to be myself. You will forever have my heart.