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I can’t believe four years of putting on a Cardinal jersey is coming to an end. It seems like only yesterday I was playing high school ball for Coach Mollner and having him constantly in my ear about some college in Winona, Minnesota. I feel so blessed to have had this opportunity to continue my baseball career.
The last four years have been truly amazing. Playing baseball for Saint Mary’s University has given me so much more than I could have ever expected. I knew coming in that I was going to get the opportunity to become a better player, but I never imagined I would have met so many great guys along the way. I will never forget the experience we have had together both on and off the field. I would like to take this opportunity to thank these guys and all the people who have supported me and helped me along the way.
To the former Cardinal greats: Zig, Kanz, Bubba, Juice, Ryno, Rinker, Jose, Cic (Bones), Kittels, Jake, and Joe Pops. You all have been unbelievable friends and teammates throughout the years. I can’t thank you all enough for the memories over the last for years.
To my coaches: Coach Whaley, I want to thank you for allowing me to fulfill my childhood dream of playing college baseball. Although it wasn’t centerfield, it was still pretty fun. Benji, thanks for not telling me how much running was actually involved before I came here. I want to thank you for pushing myself along with all of the pitchers over the years so hard. You have really taught me the importance of one’s work ethic both in baseball and in the classroom. Coach Trewick, it’s been a blast getting to know you this year. You’re a great coach and made it fun to come to the park everyday.
To my teammates: Although we have battled through a tough season, I couldn’t imagine going through it with anyone else. It’s been a pleasure playing with all of you. Hawk, your work ethic is among the best I have ever played with, that better continue through Green Mill ball cuz we got a lot of years left buddy. Pops, so many great memories … Legion vans, frozen pizzas, and Flam Bomb. You’re one of the most talented pitchers I have ever met and I am thankful to have played beside you for so long. Keep throwing the hanging curve! Kuhn, you’ve been a great friend and really wish we wouldn’t have waited till my senior year to hang out so much. I wish you the best of luck next year. Toshi, you are unbelievable. I am so glad you have opened up over the last year. Get those eyes checked and start hitting those massive bombs you’re known for. Brady, what up 21?! I am envious of your passion for the game. Thanks for letting me look good in center. Kev- Are you serious? Bunting in the three-hole, pretty gutsy. The energy you bring to the park everyday is amazing. I am honored to have had you behind me every time I took the mound. Kreigs- From third to second to left, you have always been able to make the adjustment. You’re a great player and even better friend. Quit copying me though, its getting a little weird. Miz- You’re a little crazy, but I like it. Don’t ever give up on your dream of playing short. Thanks for being my throwing partner and always handcuffing me with that nasty two-seamer. To all of the rest of the guys I have failed to mention, you are all unbelievable and I wish you all the best of luck.
To my fellow seniors: Dave, you are way too fast. Thanks for stealing centerfield from me my senior year. I can’t believe we made it through four years of intervals. It’s been a pleasure being on the staff with you for four years. Stevie, what can I say man, you’re a great friend. I am so glad you decided to transfer here and get the heck out of North Dakota. We’ve had a lot of great times together and hopefully many more in the future. I would definitely rank you in the top three book takers in the MIAC. Coz, it seems like yesterday we were living in Eds. I never could figure out why this one guy just wouldn’t respond to me, turns out he can’t hear me. You have been an unbelievable friend over the years and we had had so many great memories. I am lucky to have had a fellow senior such as yourself. Thanks for letting me dominate you in dance-offs. Danny (Slug), I still remember wishing that my roommate would never show up so I could have my own room freshman year, low and behold I got a slug instead! I could sit here and write about 20 pages on what we have been through. You are a great friend and couldn’t imagine living with any other slug the last four years. Just remember: its noodles and sauce, not pasta and gravy, it’s a cash machine not cash station, its going to a movie not going to the show, and you went to his house not by his house. Love ya buddy.
To my family: Mom, you are a truly inspiring women and I feel so honored to be your son. I hope one day I can be as successful as you are. You have provided me every possible opportunity to succeed and I am so thankful for that. Miss, thanks for being a great sister and friend over the years. I look forward to becoming closer to you in years ahead. Dad, you are an unbelievable father and are my best friend. I can’t thank you enough for teaching me everything about the game (especially the deuce) and for attending so many. I look forward to all the hunting and fishing adventures still yet to come. I love you all.
Thanks to all the parents for supplying us with food between doubleheaders and for cheering us on no matter what. Thanks, Donny, for all you do in the athletic department, it doesn’t go unnoticed. And last but not least thanks Kevin for providing all of us with the treatment we needed.
Thank you all, it has been a true honor to be a Cardinal.
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