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What My Seniors Meant to Me By Jolyn Ding

Illustration by Riya Charora & photo by Sam Jezak

Everyone says that all great things must come to an end. I know this is inevitable, but time always passes by faster than anticipated. It seems like just yesterday when I walked onto campus as a timid freshman uncertain of the future, and now, my seniors, who I have grown very close with, are graduating in the coming weeks.

Basketball means so much to me because of the individuals it has introduced me to. It was here, at Pinewood, where I met seniors Kaile Cruz, Emily Lee, Gabrielle Harris, and Elle Ladine. All four of these individuals made an impact on the person and player I am today, and for that, I am grateful. Although I am not the best at expressing my appreciation for others, here goes nothing:

The first time we met was at the Pinewood Activities Center, or as the basketball team calls it, Fabian. Although you were the last senior I met, I learned a lot from watching you play your tenacious, unrelenting style of defense, witnessing you cash in threes from beyond the arc, and seeing you put in extra work behind the scenes. To me, you were the heart of our team and the definition of what an ideal Pinewood basketball player is. More importantly, I’ve always admired the kindness you have for others and the way you carry yourself off the court. Thank you for everything.

We first met during a summer workout at Pinewood, and I was shocked at how quick and shifty you were. Even though I am sure you know this, you almost crossed me up multiple times this season, so thank you for that. On a more serious note, I want to let you know how grateful I am for the support, guidance, wisdom, and encouragement you have given me. The long car rides and conversations we have shared mean more to me than you will ever know. You were my biggest cheerleader when I lacked belief in myself, and for that, I am forever thankful.

We also met during a workout, and that summer, we roomed together in Chicago. I did not know you very well at the time, but you still gave me really helpful advice on how to navigate my first year at Pinewood. To you, this may not have seemed like such a big deal, but it was to me because it made me feel welcomed and gave me the sense that I belonged. From then on, I knew I could turn to you if I ever needed anything. Thank you for having my back.

You were the first senior I met, and I will never forget your goofy personality that always manages to crack a smile on my face. Thank you for lifting my spirits on days when I could not do that for myself. Additionally, thank you for instilling confidence in everyone. Before my first home game at Pinewood, you sat down next to me and assured me that all my hard work would pay off. As a teammate, you had the ability to uplift everyone around you, which is such an admirable trait. Thank you for being you.

Although this season did not end the way we all hoped or imagined, I am thankful for the relationships I built. Oftentimes, we get so caught up in the wins and losses that we forget to step back and appreciate the moments we have with those around us.

To my seniors, thank you. Thank you for all your knowledge, time, and dedication. Even though I did not always outwardly express my gratitude for you all, that does not mean it was not there. I wish you all the best moving forward, and cannot wait to hear about your future success in college. Although this memorable chapter is coming to a close, I know that whatever lies ahead will be even better.