Dear Basketball,

We’ve come a long way, you and I. I remember when it all started; I was seven years old and looking for ways to make friends. I’ll have to admit; I wasn’t a fan at first. You were boring and all I wanted to do was go outside and ride bikes. I didn’t want to be bothered by you.

You always wanted to hang out at the most inconvenient times for a first grader. Always an hour and a half at the end of the day when it was still daylight: that’s prime bike riding time! You didn’t give up, though. You teamed up with my parents and decided that I needed to suck it up and come play. I want you to know I’m so thankful for that.

It hasn’t always been rainbows and butterflies, but that’s what makes relationships great, right? I wouldn’t say it’s always been the most healthy relationship because just about everyone that knows me, knows you’ve hurt me a countless number of times. A good number of family members, friends, teammates and sometimes coaches have asked why I keep coming back to you. It’s simple really: despite the ACL tear, broken elbow, and other injuries, you’ve made me a better person and given me a countless number of things I am forever going to be grateful for. You’ve been the most constant thing in my life and I don’t know what I’d do without you.

You’ve taught me that it’s important the team’s needs are above any single individual’s needs in order to be successful, but also a team can only ever be as strong as their weakest player. You’ve taught me how keeping my composure will get me further in life than losing my cool on the referee that made a horrible call or taking a swing at the girl that just threw an elbow in my back. You’ve taught me that heart beats talent any day of the week. You’ve taught me how to lose gracefully. I can’t win them all and that’s okay because life will go on. Above all, you’ve taught me life isn’t fair. Sometimes, even when I’ve done everything I’ve been taught correctly, the outcome may still be a loss, but effort wasn't the issue. You've not only taught me things but have also introduced me to so many great people. I can never repay you for giving me the opportunity to build so many life long friendships.

I’m writing this letter to you because I’m beginning my final year having a school’s name represented across my chest, and I wanted you to know I sincerely appreciate all you’ve done for me. Wherever I end up, I will never forget you. You’ve helped shape the person I have become and I can’t wait to one day introduce you to my future children. Thank you for being such an honest and loyal first love. You’ve set the bar pretty high for all future suitors.

Sincerely,

#32