I really want to make mention of a sport that has been a major part of my life. I was very athletic as a child, teen and then into college. My dad was a major sports freek when I was growing up, and I learned early how to play catch, shoot baskets, and hit a softball. I was involved in little league, traveling basketball teams and of course varsity athletics in high school. I was very fortunate to excel in them all. I played softball, volleyball and basketball throughout high school. By the time I got to be a senior, I had a few options to continue my career in college. I was recruited mainly by division colleges. I decided to go toGrand Valley State University on a volleyball scholarship. Most importantly, playing volleyball in college shaped my life into what I am now. I learned so much in those dedicated four years of my life. I really want to praise God for that athletic ability that He gave me. If it was not for that ability and opportunity to go to college on a scholarship, I don't think I would be where I am today. It was all God's plan (Jeremiah 29:11). He knows us before we are even made, and I look back and am so thankful for that opportunity that most don't have. Being a part of a team added more to my life than I can even explain. Teams brings about Godly principles in one's life. Relationships, trust, challenge, discipline, dependability, disappointment, struggle, victory, triumph, team-work, group dynamics, and much more. The college volleyball experience is so in depth that I can't even put it into words. It is a family, a love, a commitment and it takes heart and dedication. It gave me self-confidence, a work ethic that was taught, and an understanding of how to get along with people in everyday life. It was a valuable four years. It becomes an identity. But, when I realized that my identity didn't have to be in a sport that would someday become less important, or in people and relationships that will definitely change, that is where the true lesson begins. I praise God for all that He showed me during those four years. I have learned, and now know Him better because of it. When things fail and change, it causes anxiety. We learn from that anxiety and fear, and we grasp to something. That's when God reached down His huge hand and brought His love to my life. It had always been there, He just needed a willingness in me to receive that love. Thank God. Volleyball will always have a very special place in my heart. Grand Valley Volleyball will always be a part of me, but the lessons and values that experience taught me and how close it made me to my Father, I will never be able to replace. I am so grateful for that. I coach now. I am not sure how long God will keep me coaching, because I believe there is a higher calling on my life. God is unfolding that daily. He is so faithful. (Ephesians 1:18)