Tessa Stranik Sr. • S	There are absolutely no words that can even begin to describe how playing volleyball at Saint Mary’s has impacted my life. To most, volleyball is just another game, but to me it has become a way of life, one that I can’t even imagine giving up when this is all over. All the sweat, the smiles, the laughter, and the tears, the hopes and despairs, the victories and defeats are things that will not soon be forgotten. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for all you do. The two of you are the inspiration in my life, and I owe EVERYTHING to you. I’m sorry the school I chose had to be so far away from home, it wasn’t easy not having your faces in the stands at all the games, yet I know you would have been at every single one if distance hadn’t been such a barrier. Words cannot express how much I appreciate all the long trips you have made just to watch one weekend of volleyball. I miss you so much and love you more than you’ll ever know. Diana and Barry, thank you for taking me under wing and making me feel like I’m right at home. Thank you for being my second mom and dad when my parents couldn’t be there. Doug, thank you for being my number one fan and traveling just about anywhere to watch a game. I can never tell you enough how much it means to me that you are always in the stands. To my roommates: Lisa, you’ve become the best friend I’ve ever had. Thank you for all the laughs, the tears, the support through the tough times, and the way you always put up with my random mood swings. Your positive outlook on life is one of the many reasons I will always look up to you and can only hope it will rub off on me. Ang, thank you for all the advice, the late-night “complaining” sessions, and all the homesickness cures. You always find a way to brighten up all my gloomiest days. Thank you for always being my shoulder to lean on; for your friendship I will always be grateful. Rat, thank you for all the entertainment you provide at home, your carefree attitude has a way of lightening any mood. I only hope I can someday exhibit the same toughness and determination that you possess. Sonya, thank you for always listening and lending your advice whenever I needed it. Your strength and stability are qualities that I will always admire. Also, thank you for the pink—our house wouldn’t be the same without it. Jamie, my roommate from freshman year, thank you for you. If it weren’t for you, I probably wouldn’t even be at Saint Mary’s, I am so lucky to have you as a friend. To my volleyball girls: Dingels, Trace, Kates, Kirst, and Molls, the last four years have been nothing short of spectacular. Each and every one of you is a unique and incredible individual. Thank you for all being role models for me. This volleyball program is truly going to miss all five of you. And Dingels, it must be said that I am so proud of the “smart aleck” you’ve become — your comments will always be appreciated! To all the juniors and sophomores, thank you for all the memories: Rach and her crazy hair, Benzie always hitting on the boys, Des’s “hip pads,” Steph’s random swollen ankle, Mino’s dance at Corey’s wedding, Beth’s enthusiastic celebrations, Moldy Dant! still can’t believe I called you that, Megan … you fool …, Stacey’s odd hand position when passing the ball, and the trip to Missouri with Lisa, Kaylene, Jess, and Ashley. I know in another few years all the scores and the wins and losses will be forgotten, but these memories are the things I will always cherish. Lastly, thank you, Coach Lester, for being such a great coach, and always pushing us to be the best we can be. Thank you Corey, Roof, Jamie, and Jackie for all the time and energy you have spent making this team what it is today. It has been an honor to play for all of you. Thank you all for making volleyball at Saint Mary’s such an amazing experience; I will forever be proud to have been a Cardinal.