Jessica Bids Farewell

I would have never imagined the day would come that I would be tying my skates, taping my stick, and draping that Cardinal jersey over my shoulders for the last time. Unfortunately, that day is upon me, and I realize that all good things come to an end. Also, as seniors, we understand that we must continue on and make the most of what the future holds for us. The past four years have taken me on an amazing adventure, and left me with incredible memories. Nothing beats the feeling of stepping out the ice at the start of a home game and hearing the announcer shout, “And here are your Saint Mary’s Cardinals!” The immeasurable amount of pride we all carry in our hearts is something worth admiring. The privilege of competing at the collegiate level, along-side the best group of girls I have ever met, is something I wouldn’t trade for the entire world. Through these special people, in which I shared my college hockey experience, I’ve learned much about the game and myself. They showed me what it means to have heart when we would run 400-yard sprints for dryland. They taught me how to stay positive and light-hearted even when times are tough. Lastly, they’ve taught me to stay focused on the game amidst all the other confusion and responsibilities that come with being a college student. My teammates made it possible for me to create one of the greatest memories of my life — my first college game (freshman year). It couldn’t have gone any better. We were playing Lake Forest and somehow with the help of my teammates, I ended up netting the fastest goal in school history (just 23 seconds into the first period). That was one of the peak moments of my life, and it was all thanks to them. I am going to miss you all more than anything. We went through the good times and bad. We’ve grown and changed together over the years and still have the best time when we are with each other. Finally, to my fellow seniors, I leave you with this quote by Thomas Monson, “The past is behind, learn from it; the future is ahead, prepare for it; the present is here, live in it.” To conclude, I would like to thank all of those who guided and supported me throughout my hockey career: To my parents: You were there for me from the get-go. I love you guys so much. Thank you for supporting me throughout the years. This dream could have never been made possible without you. Because of you I got to travel overseas to play the game I love. I traveled across the country with you guys, hoping rink to rink. You are my number one fans! Mom, you know I secretly score all my goals for you. And nothing beats you in the stands Dad. I always looked forward to see your smiling face in the stands before my game. You are the chuck-a-puck champion, and have the best fist pump while cheering in the stands. To all my coaches: Thank you for giving me this opportunity and believing in me throughout the years. I have so much respect for each one of you; I mean I kind of have to since you put up with all my crap. I’ll miss the snow shots to the face and the ice down the pants. Thanks for the memories guys! Those all my teammates now and those who graduated before me- every one of you inspired me to do my best and still have crazy fun, both on and off the ice. Amy “MadDog” Madden: Or should I call you Tina? Hehe … “Why did you have to go and make things so complicated?” Anyways, I love you and I admire your passion for the game. I will never forget the great times and I anticipate the memories we are going to be making. By the way, when are we making our music video with my mustang and your minivan? Jenna “Rob and Big” Roland: I don’t think my life will be the same without you. Whose shoulders am I going to leap onto now? Who is going to be my Big? Who’s going to catch me when I score? I love you so much!!! You are such an animated, fun-loving person, and lifelong pal. Laura “Moo” Mueller: I’ve never seen someone with your character before. You are so strong willed, dedicated, and have the biggest heart of anyone I know. Is there a mean bone in your body? We always kept each other posted on the “seasons” throughout the year (god, Tina got so lame in season 3). Becky Jelenc: From Wisconsin Wild to college. College is so much better! I’m going to miss your daily jokes at practice. What did the eight say to the zero? But I know we will always remember each other because I did draw your tattoo! Branded for life! Melissa Mondo: You probably never knew this, but I always looked up to you on the ice. You are an incredible hockey player, but I am still a better runner! Haha! Val Rodriguez: Mud sliding with you, Oompa Loompa night!!! BEST NIGHT EVER! “Are you overweight? Is it becoming a problem?” I have a newfound respect for the game of horseshoes because of you. You are an awesome kid, great hockey player, and you’ve got a bright future ahead of you. Love you! Laura “La” Langen: Pretty sure words can’t describe you. You make my weekdays and weekends much more enjoyable. You are one of a kind. Tortilla on your face in the Minivan … so funny …nylon over the head … Tornado! Throwing Kendra’s clothes all over the place. This isn’t the end … it’s just the beginning!