I've been on a team of some sort since I was 4 years old. I've played almost every sport offered in my middle school, because I loved making new friends and learning something new. Once I reached college I knew which sports I truly loved and stuck to those. When I first went to college I told myself I didn't need to do a sport, that I would just focus on school. I was so wrong. My first two years here I felt like something was missing, but just could not figure it out. I finally decided to give cheerleading a chance and be part of a team again, which ended up being exactly what I needed.

There is no greater feeling than knowing that you make a difference in something. I love the hard work, fun, and excitement of being on a team. The most fun is knowing that you are accomplishing and learning new things with your best friends.

I've learned so many great life lessons through the failures I have faced in sports throughout my life. Whether it was getting cut from that team I wanted to make or messing up the dance in the routine, life goes on. Pick your head up, learn from your mistake, and do better next time. The best part is that your teammates are there to help pick you up after a bad game or even just a bad practice.

The friends you make along the way is by far the best part of being on a team. I have met so many unbelievably amazing girls that ended up being some of my best friends through the many teams I have been a part of. All of these girls are so talented and became my second family. My teammates, both past and present, truly hold a special place in my heart. There is no relationship like the one you have with your team. You've seen them at their best and their worst and you've helped them through tough times and they've helped you too. Some weeks you see your team more than anyone else and it doesn't even matter because they are your best friends so where else would you rather be?

Being part of a sport is great, but being on a team where you rely on each other is just so much more important. I just want everyone of my teammates to know that they helped shape me into the athlete and person I am today and even if we aren't teammates anymore I still consider you my teammate and most likely one of my best friends.

Whether we get first or ninth place I'm always winning because you are my teammates. I love you all past and present teammates.