This Thanksgiving, athletes from the fall sports teams are reflecting on the people and experiences that have shaped their careers.
From supportive family members to the backing of the entire community, athletes shared what they are thankful for this year.
For senior golfer Reese Pattison, sports have been about more than just competition. They’ve been a source of lasting connections. She said she was thankful for the support she has seen from her family, church, coaches and teammates.
“I am thankful for all of the new friendships and experiences that sports have provided for me,” Pattison said.
Whether win or lose, senior soccer player Nate Steinlage said he is grateful for the support of his community.
“I am thankful for my friends and family who always support me in whatever I do,” he said. “They are always so supportive of me and are there for me.”
Senior football player Connor Watson said he was grateful for the coaches and mentors who have taught him so much during his career.
“I know I could go to a coach right away, you know, like Coach Steffen, Coach Cleveland, and all them,” he said. “They’re great. When it’s time to have fun, they’ll have fun. So it’s just really nice to have those people close to you that you could always go to.”
For senior cross country runner Hanna Keltner, her gratitude centers on her grandparents, who she said are her biggest cheerleaders.
“My grandma and grandpa try to make it to every single one of my cross-country meets, and if they can’t, they send me sweet messages whether I ran well or not,” she said. “They help me see the positive side of cross country — that being kind and a good teammate is always superior to how you perform in a race.”
Senior Silvestre Janovec is on the football and unified bowling team. He said he was grateful for the relationships sports have given him.
“I am grateful for my family and friends and the opportunities that I am given,” he said.
Senior volleyball player Adalyn Hemphill said she is thankful for this year’s volleyball team and the memories they built.
“It was like another family to me, and I will forever cherish this season,” she said.
Senior Errol Siemon said he appreciates the consistent enthusiasm for local sports he sees when he competes.
“I’m thankful for our great community,” Siemon said. “Our community comes out and represents our high school teams no matter what the sport is. It’s awesome as an athlete to see the stands always packed for a sports event.”
Reach reporter Cuyler Dunn at [email protected]
