Pass, set, hit. Boom. A sequence ingrained in my blood. The Panther Pit erupts in cheer, and our team jumps with joy. The game goes on, and too soon the score reaches 25. With two sets already under our belt, we win the game. Sweet victory is soured by the thought that my time with Pinewood volleyball is almost over.
As my senior season comes to a close, I can’t help but step back from that specific play and exciting celebration to see the bigger picture — to finally understand the heavy sadness that comes with my final year. While each big event this year unwinds in front of me, I understand that it’s the last.
Pinewood volleyball has become such an integral part of me that I still can’t understand how it can end. Although I still can’t accept its closure, I want to take a moment to thank the program for shaping me into the person and player I am today.
To Pinewood volleyball: thank you. We met back in fourth grade, and you allowed me to get to really know you. Even though I was stumbling over my own two feet and completely missing the ball when I would go to hit, I started to fall in love with you. Even though I wasn’t very good and would mess up more than I would succeed, you helped me understand that success requires hard work. And even though there was no thrill of getting a kill yet, there was something special that allowed me to see a future with you.
Each following year, I would look forward to your season, with a great drive to win and improve. You helped me become a better player, but you also allowed me to grow a passion so deep that I started to seek opportunities to play outside of school as well. Thanks to you, volleyball became my life.
At Pinewood, volleyball allowed me to develop confidence and a strong spirit for the game. Every time I step onto that court, I feel empowered. With my coaches smiling at me, I feel supported. With my teammates by my side, I feel part of a family. And with a blank scoreboard and the potential to score, I’m hungry to win. Pinewood volleyball, you are the love of my life.
At the end of the season this time, I won’t be able to say “next season!” No, it’s time I say goodbye. Thank you for being the platform that allowed me to create unforgettable memories, to have experiences that made me stronger, and to fall in love with pass, set, hit.
