Growing up, I always wondered what sports I would play in high school, who I would become friends with, what car I would drive, who I would go to prom with, what college I would attend, along with many other thoughts.
I never could have imagined my senior year in this way. At first, I was completely devastated, maybe even a little depressed. There were days when I did not want to talk to anyone because I was just so frustrated with the whole situation.
Why me? Why now? Why us? It was very hard to understand and at first it did not even seem real. Waking up each day and seeing it all over again on social media was definitely a downer, too.
However, with all the time off, I have had a lot of time to sit and think about what all I have to be thankful for.
Some of my favorite memories have come from Richmond Senior High School. Between volleyball and basketball seasons, Friday night football games, Senate outings, and spirit and homecoming week, all these moments have given me happy memories to look back on, despite the negativity that the virus has brought.
I have enjoyed playing volleyball for the last four years and am very proud to have been a part of this program. My senior season was my favorite for sure just because I was more relaxed and just tried to have fun with it.
I am thankful for Coach Ashleigh Larsen and all that she has done for the program. She supported me through everything and helped me build confidence in myself as a player and student.
My favorite memory from this season would have to be senior night against Scotland. We had lost to them previously, but we came out with lots of energy and had so much fun with it. Along with volleyball, I have lots of stories and memories from three seasons of basketball as well.
I am thankful for all the people I met through this game and will always remember the long hours of practice, bus rides, and Hailey crying on the court at Ronald Reagan.
For my final year of high school, I decided to try out for soccer. I was a little hesitant because I had not played since rec ball, but by the end of our short season I found myself wishing I had played all along.
It was fun to play a sport and not feel any pressure. I want to thank Coach Chris Larsen for giving me the chance to play and work at it because anyone who saw me during workouts could tell I had not touched a soccer ball in years. It was a great way to finish out the year.
To all the underclassmen, I hope that you appreciate going back to school, being with friends, and seeing teachers a little more. I wish more than anything I could go back for one last “normal day.”
From watching the Amoeba Sisters with Mrs. (Vivian) Hilton in 10th grade Biology, to learning about Southeast Asia and Bangladesh with Mrs. (Mary) McDonald in AP Human Geography, I wish I had been more appreciative of the everyday activities.
To the class of 2020, it is okay to feel sad, mad, frustrated and bitter, but do not let the anger last too long. Soon enough things will be back to normal and life will be good again.
Although it is not the senior year we all wanted, we will always be remembered for our “different” year. Cherish the time you have with family and friends because soon enough we will be off into the real world.
Sending love and prayers to all my classmates who may be struggling just as I have.
This is my story, but this is our year.
