As father's day quickly approaches, I just wanted to say thank you to my softball dad as I wouldn't have been the same without ya.

Dear Dad,

As sad as the end of my softball career was for me, I know it was just as sad for you. It was an end to your softball dad career. Every step of my career you were right there with me. Starting from the age of 4, it was our thing. From coaching me up until high school to being my biggest fan, there's no telling where I would be if it wasn't for you constantly pushing me to be the best player and person I could ever be. Not to mention all the life lessons you've taught me through the game.

Thank you for introducing me to the greatest game around-Thank you for taking me out to the field at a very young age and introducing me to this amazing sport. Even when I could barely hold a bat or couldn't catch a ball to save my life, thank you for taking me to a field where I developed a love for the game.

Thank you for always being down for a game of catch- No matter how tough your day was at work or how busy you were, thank you for always making time to play catch with me. Even when we were on vacation, we always brought our mitts and I am lucky to have played catch with you all over the country.Oh yeah and thanks for always chasing after my bad throws.

Thank you for taking me all over the country to chase my dream-I cannot thank you enough for driving and flying me all over the country to play in the best tournaments. The many hours spent in a car driving to and from tournaments were some of the best and I definitely miss them. (except the silent ones after I played terrible).

Thank you for always being at as many games as possible- I could probably count on one hand how many games you missed of mine when from tee-ball until high school. I knew I could always count on you to be in the stands early enough to watch pre-game warmups and being able to tell whether I'd have a good game or a bad one. The feeling of always seeing you in the stands cheering me on, is one I will never forget. Even when I went on to college, thank you for traveling to as many games as your schedule would allow, traveling from the midwest to the south and even all the way across an ocean to see me play. Your constant support will forever be appreciated.

Thank you for always shagging- With 17 years of playing comes17 years of shagging balls after batting practice. Thank you for always shagging without any complaints. Even when I made the job harder by trying to make baskets, you always shagged with a smile on your face.

Thank you for always being willing to throw me BP-Thank you for the countless BP sessions, in the heat, rain, and snow. I'm sorry for always complaining about your bad pitches. I miss our times in the batting cages or at the field but at least you won't have to hear me whine anymore. And your pitching arm can enter retirement.

Thank you for constantly pushing me to be the best player I could be- Whether it was putting me in front of a fence so I couldn't back up and had to attack the ball or making me bunt forever before I could swing, I am thankful for you recognizing my potential and pushing me to keep improving. Thank you for keeping me humble and letting me never be satisfied. I know I would not be the same player if you didn't develop the work ethic I have today.

Finally, thank you for being my biggest fan-Thank you for always supporting me even when I went 0-4. Through good games and bad, I know I could always count on you to be there for me. I loved making you beam with pride and I want you to know I couldn't have done it without you. I will miss walking out of the dugout and giving you a huge hug after a win or getting encouraged after a bad one. Thank you for your constant love and support throughout my career.

While our softball days may be over, I am thankful for every memory or lesson on the ball field. I couldn't have done it without you Dad. Thank you and I love you!