Dear lacrosse,
 
I first fell in love with you when I was a little girl. You've been a part of my family for as long as I can remember.  My dad introduced me to you when I was only five years old. He was my first coach, my sister was my first teammate, and from then on I was hooked.
 
These past few weeks without you have been difficult, especially given the way we left things off. I often find myself reminiscing over our past, from the exhilarating wins to the heart aching losses, and everything in between. I never thought I would miss hearing the words "get on the line", or the way time seems to suddenly slow down as soon as you step in the ice bath, but I miss it all. All of the gnarly bruises, ridiculously sore legs, and frozen fingers were all worth it because of the joy that you brought with it. 
 
You have given me a chance to be a part of something bigger than myself. Being a part of a team has given me some of my favorite memories, but more importantly it has given me my best friends. They have always been there for me, as a shoulder to cry on or a dance partner to celebrate with. No matter how early in the morning or how cold it was outside, grinding through practice never seemed so bad because I had 27 best friends by my side. Giving 100% effort every day is a little easier knowing that my hard work is making the person to my left and to my right a little better.
 
You have shown me what it means to persevere through tough times, which has prepared me for the situation we are facing now. Although for the time being we don't have the ability to be together in the traditional sense, I do still have the ability to get better on my own. I am spending this time working on my speed, strength, and skills so that I am better prepared for when we meet again. If there is one thing you have taught me it is that with hard work you can overcome adversity, and the unfortunate circumstances we are now facing will be no different. I can't wait until we are reunited this fall, and I promise to have a new sense of appreciation, now knowing how quickly you can get taken away.
 
A lot of what I know about you I've learned from those who came before me. This year's senior class is no exception. They have taught me how to be a better player, person, and teammate and it has been an honor to play beside every one of them. Although this was not the ending that they deserve, they have provided the leadership that will allow this program to succeed for years to come. I am going to greatly miss playing next to each one of them, but their legacy will live on forever.
 
You've shown me some losses that left my heart stinging for days, but the memories of those losses pale in comparison to the many wins that I will cherish forever. I will never be able to repay you for all of the life lessons and amazing memories that you have given to me. Getting to play this sport every day is a privilege; I am so lucky for every second that I've gotten to step out on the field, and I look forward to many more. Thank you lacrosse for always being the best part of my day. You have made me the person I am today, and given me the friends and experiences of a lifetime.
 
Sincerely,
Emily Fiorillo