I chose not to write yesterday. My post from the day before was only twelve hours previous so I figured no one needs that much Andy Hatt in their life. Also, on my Facebook page, I shared out a link to an article that in my opinion, is the best thing I’ve read on this whole COVID-19 ordeal. I figured if you took the time to read that, you didn’t need my two cents after it. In case you didn’t, here is the link.
OK, on with the regularly scheduled program.
Today is a shout out to Seniors in high school. I was reading an article yesterday on the Three Rivers Girl’s basketball team and their reactions to having their season cut short. Even though we don’t “like” TR here in Sturgis, I do respect their coach and their program, and it was honestly heartbreaking to read. Our team lost during districts so our season had ended, but I cannot fathom going to my team, who is still chasing that dream of a state championship, and telling them that our season is over. Losing sucks, and I hate it as much as anyone, but if we lose a game to finish our season, you at least have some closure, as opposed to the unknown of having the tournament canceled.
The same goes for my friend Coach Morehouse and the Women’s Basketball team at Hope College. They were 27-0 and ranked #1 in the nation about to host a Sweet 16 game. Only four wins away from a national championship?
“I walked in there and I just looked at ’em, and they were already crying, and I started crying, and I said guys there is no script for this, I don’t know what to say except for thank you.”
While I know the Hope story is not about seniors in high school, I think Coach Mo’s reaction is the same one that coach after coach after coach had with their team.
So to the seniors, especially the senior athletes, my heart goes out to you. Not only did some of you lose out on the end of your winter seasons, but you are currently losing out on your Spring sports season as well.
I know I miss talking to my seniors. Not that I don’t miss talking to the others, but I know I will have more time with them before they leave high school.
We used to joke about all of the “lasts” during the course of the season (last first team dinner, etc.), and I am now realizing how many of those these kids are missing out on. Last first day of softball/baseball/tennis practice, last first game of the season.
Two days ago, my friend Coach Rutenbar posted an old video on the Sturgis Varsity baseball page because it was supposed to be opening day for the 2020 season. I know he is missing the time in the dugout, or on the bus with his guys.
So in closing, Seniors, remember something that I know I have said, and it was something that was shared with me. It is not the games, or the wins or losses, but the relationships that you will take with you after high school. While you may be missing games, practices, class periods, you do not have to miss out on the relationships with your teammates, coaches, and teachers. Stay in contact with them, and us. While we as coaches and teachers can’t say we’ve been through what you’re going through, I am sure I speak for all of us when I say we will help you through this time that we are going through together.
Stay safe, stay healthy, STAY HOME, and always remember, PEOPLE CARE ABOUT YOU!
The High Release 
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