School has always been about more than just classes and homework for most of us. Growing up, our lives have inevitably revolved around school. Many of us extend the impact our schooling has on us through extracurricular activities. Whether it's through clubs, fine arts, vocational programs, work or sports, we all have groups of people we see on a routine basis. Those groups become extended families or, in other words, a home away from home. When we sit there completely uninterested in that Algebra homework, we think about what could possibly happen the next time we reunite with our second family. However, there comes a time when that group is no longer there. A time when we are together for the final reunion. A time when we must say goodbye. For me, that group was my high school baseball team.

Of course, I had other groups that I spent time with. I am still fond of my old vocational program, and I spent four years playing basketball. But baseball was where I spent most of my time year in and year out. This team was my home away from home. We would cheer on our teammates during their other sports, and always make plans to hang out after practices or games. In a win, we would celebrate together. After a loss, we consoled each other. The memories I can recall go on and on. This team taught me what brotherhood was before I had ever even thought about joining a fraternity. Looking over my time there, I realized one thing. I owe more to my teammates than I think they, or I, could have imagined. From them, I learned what it meant to work for something, to earn respect. What it meant to lean on others in times of adversity. But, more than anything, I was given the opportunity to lead. For all these things, I can only say one thing: thank you. Thank you for taking my words to heart while I gave a speech, especially an emotional one. Thank you for having my back whenever my confidence faltered, or whenever I needed help.

Unfortunately, the day of our final reunion had to come. With tears in our eyes, one of you made me promise to keep in touch. This was a promise I kept...for a short time. Sometimes, things don't go as planned and life gets a little crazy. But, I want you all to know, that I am so grateful to have had the chance to play alongside each and every one of you. I will always cherish the memories we made while also wishing I could go back to them. Although we have all gone our separate ways, know that I am hoping the best for all of you. I may not be a player in your lives anymore, but I will always be a die-hard fan in your stands.