I have been playing softball ever since I was 10 years old. It has always been a huge part of my life. Looking back and reflecting on my time playing, I have realized that this sport is the reason I am who I am today. It is the reason I can deal with adversity and pressure. So to the sport that was with me through my ups and downs, thank you.

Thank you to all the coaches I have had, both past and present. Without each one of these people I wouldn’t have gotten as far as I have. They haven’t just been coaches; they have been mentors that helped prepare me for the real world. Also a huge thank you to the coaches that have acted liked a father figure to me. You are the reason I got through the rough times in my life.

Thank you to the teammates I have played with that have become lifelong friends. You may not always connect with everyone on your team but the ones you do tend to push you to be your best on and off the field. Without each and every one of you I wouldn’t have enjoyed the sport as much as I do.

Thank you to all the doubters. Without you guys I would not have had someone to prove wrong. It’s funny to see that when you succeed these people quiet down and keep to themselves.

The biggest thank you of all goes to my mother. She is the reason I was able to continue playing the sport I love. All the countless hours at the ball field and money she put out helped me reach my dream of becoming a division 1 athlete. She is a special kind of woman. I just cannot even express my gratefulness towards her.

My final thank you goes to the sport I fell in love with 11 years ago. Thank you for showing me that I am stronger and tougher than I think. Without this sport, I would have never known what I was capable of, not only as a player but as a person and a team player.

Knowing this is my last season as a softball player is bittersweet. I will forever be grateful to this sport and everyone involved in it. This season will be the best yet and I am ready to go out with a bang!