Dear Mom,

I know it's been rough... I know sometimes you just want to say "Okay, that's enough- we're done", but you haven't. Having a kid as an athlete has pushed you to your absolute limits; I know it has.

I've seen how years of practices and games have begun to wear you down. I've seen how having to organize carpools and team parties and team dinners have been such hassles to you. Years and years of sports have led to endless days and sleepless nights.

But, let's not forget the never-ending memories.

Remember my 6th grade year when we won our last football game of the season on a last second touchdown? Or when we won the Regional Championship on a buzzer beater? God, I think your smile was bigger than mine...

Mom, I know I don't always say it enough, but I love you. I love you, and thank you for the countless years of help and guidance. From the years when I felt like giving up on football, to making the ultimate decision to end my basketball career, you've been my voice of reason in my life's hardest moments.

We fight and bicker more than I may like, and our views don't match up on most of life's topics. But, in all honesty, I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm lucky enough to have a mother that loves and supports me and will be there for me as I go on to hopefully play at the next level, too.

Mom, thank you for being you. Thank you for being my mom and my mentor and my voice of reason... But most of all, thank you for believing in me and showing me that I truly can overcome life's biggest obstacles.

You're the best, Mom. I love you to the moon and back again...