To My Father,

Thank you for being my first friend, coach, role model, and everything in between. I cannot begin to explain how my life has been changed for the better because I was fortunate to have you as a parent.

From every breakfast at 5:30 in the morning to every film session at 11 pm, you were there for me every single time I needed you. The thought of another person leading me through life since 1998 is just impossible to comprehend.

Every journey that we have been on together has meant so much to me. College recruiting visits, serious talks at the kitchen table, or just being dudes in the car and talking about anything under the sun. Those are the moments I wouldn't trade for the world.

For as long as I can remember I was seen as a miniature version of you, and it wasn't until recently that I started to take that as a compliment. Because if I grow up to be half the man you are I think my family will be damn proud of me. I always acted like I hated hearing that because I wasn't at an age where I was able to truly comprehend and observe first hand how highly people think of you. You are truly the definition of a people person. You can make the quietest of individuals voice their opinions which is truly mind-boggling to me.

Every speed bump I ever hit, you were there for them all. Every ex-girlfriend, every tough loss, every single one of them you were always there. And you were always good at knowing when and if I needed space. I thank you for recognizing those signs.

So before I go, I would like to say thank you for being the person you are and letting me be the person I am. I know that I was/can be a handful, but I know at the end of the day everything you do is in my best interest. I hope your day is filled with lots of exercise, baseball, and loads of healthy food. I love ya dad.

Kevin