Coming into a new season with a new coach the thought of quitting came across my mind because of how terrible past coaches were and knowing things were probably not going to be any better. I knew I would be treated as if I was a bench player and contemplated if the sport was really worth my time because I would rather sit through physics then practice.

But ever since you became my coach I realized I owe you nothing more than a thank you. Thank you for being you.

I want to thank you for being someone I feel comfortable talking to about anything. You've seen me at my worst and been there for me through the countless tears and frustration I've had. And you've been there at my best through my success, but also everywhere in between.

Thank you for teaching me to believe in myself and pushing me to my limits throughout practices to achieve my goals as an athlete. I know I may not be your most talented athlete, but I gave you everything I had since you've shown me you believed in me. You've been there for me through countless hours in practices and all the struggles in between every workout. You've been known as more of a coach, but I've also used you for a teacher, therapist, and second parent. I've learned winning (though nice) isn’t the end of the world because as long as I'm happy and doing what I love that's all that mattered.

Thank you for teaching me what it means to never give up. There were countless days when I felt like I just wanted to quit. With no motivation or faith in myself, it would have been easy to throw in the towel and walk away. But you never gave up on me, and only encouraged me to battle through the pain because in the end it would be worth something. You always taught me to see the best in myself and to always stay positive, and that's something I carry with me today.

Thank you for making me want to be a successful athlete in and out of the classroom. You taught me how to be an excellent athlete but also how to be a better person out in the world. You not only changed my outlook on my physical abilities, you changed my outlook on how to lead my life.

So, thank you. Thank you for the time you put into me. For the frustration I put you through. For your support both in practice and in my life. For the lessons you taught me. For the strength you gave me. For the memories we made. You have given me the tools to succeed, and for that, I am forever grateful.