My experiences in high school athletics would have been much different if it weren’t for a few different teammates, coaches and family members.

I personally want to thank my parents for knowing my potential, witnessing my struggles and only stepping in to help me when it was absolutely vital. I also would not be where I am today without my three sisters. Each of them equally responsible for my competitiveness, they taught me to never back down from anything (mostly from them) without a fight.

I thank those who set the standards, those who set the bar that seemed just out of reach at times. Without them, improvement would not have been made. The people who came before me were pivotal in not only my success, but also the success of my teammates. I cannot express my full gratitude in writing, but I am excruciatingly thankful to have  been a part of three different athletic programs.

 
While basketball was never my favorite or best sport, I would always tell people it was my favorite season. The experience I had as a part of the FHS basketball program left me with the hope to carry on traditions and leave my own legacy. I am lucky to not only have played under the legendary Brad DeWitt but also Rebecca (Wheatley) Moore. As a student and athlete of Mrs. Moore, she has served as a mentor to me. She always encouraged me to chase the FHS softball records, many of which are held by her. She wants the best for her players no matter what sacrifices she must make and I find that very admirable.

 
My personal successes would never have been possible without my teammates. I am very fortunate to have had a great high school experience when it came to athletics. While I do enjoy the competition in athletics, I value the friendships I have made. I want to thank my XC family, everyone in the basketball program and my 2014 softball team for giving me the best four years from an athletic standpoint.

 
And lastly, I would like to thank all of the kids who will come after me. While most people are afraid of disappointing the adults in their lives, I am most scared to disappoint the future of FHS. You inspired me and motivated me every day to be a better person, to be a role model. As a young girl, there were always those athletes on my sisters’ teams who I idolized. I watched their every move and soaked up every characteristic they embodied. The passion they showed, their hard work, the goals they had accomplished, I wanted to do it all, just like them. I want to be that athlete little girls want to be.