Coming to a close

As the season comes to a close, I would like to take a moment to recognize the amazing girls I've been running with for so many months. Many of us have been together since cross country, but no matter the timeframe, you've all made trebling, tough training more than worth it. As our coach said today, we would not all be here if not for the support and companionship of the girls surrounding us. We began the year unsure of ourselves, stepping into the shoes of those who came before us and worrying that they may not fit. In the midst of that, theree were a couple ground-shaking changes to contend with that were neither predictable nor controllable, yet we managed to take each of the turns and adapt, ultimately succeeding beyond what we ever thought possible. Then, despite the adverse conditions in our second season, we persevered and made the best of each situation. The leadership of our captains and many others kept us focused and motivated, if only for the sake of dedication and discipline. Finally, we looked ahead to this final season together. Yes, I will have another year of high school sports, but this year's experience was unique and cannot be replicated after our seniors have moved on. Faced with the final stage of a finite time together, we have embraced both eachother and the sport for what they're worth, not letting fatigue or impatience wear us down. Though I will have finished my season by this time tomorrow, those who remain will have the chance to fully realize the potential they've been honing for the past three months. I wish them all the best as they wrap up one of the craziest, most awesome years. Girls, I am so blessed to know each and every one of you. You are amazing people with great hearts. You're willing to sacrifice both for yourselves and others, keep going when the going gets tough, and encourage eachother sincerely through the whole ordeal. Though we all have our good days and bad, you are always simply there, teammates, companions, and friends, which is all I ask. Getting to know you all has been one of the best things ever to have happened to me, and I thank God that you are all in my life. Thank you for making my runs worth running and my day so much brighter. Those leaving next year, I will sorely miss you and will be rooting for you in whatever you choose to pursue. Those who remain, I'm grateful and excited to have another year to share with you. It's going to be another wonderfully hectic year in an amazing journey, but for now, I'm content with where we've arrived. I hope you are too.