There are many things I can take away from this year’s softball season – many things I’ve learned about the sport, my team and myself.

And now, 17 years and hundreds of games later, I’ve concluded with two final thoughts that have hit home from my reflection of my entire career.

The term “team” is the single-most important word in the world of sports, and I was so blessed to be surrounded by 12 people this season who I truly care about, and know the same feeling is reciprocated back.

I’ve played the game of softball for a long time, and not once have I ever been on a team where everyone is as connected, united and determined as this year’s group. I feel so lucky to have made the relationships with my teammates and know that many of the friendships will last beyond the diamond.

I think this was a major factor in the success and turnaround of a program that has struggled and lacked compassion in the past.

Believe it or not, but finding a group of women who all get along (for the most part) is a huge challenge. I could not have asked for better teammates and friends from this year’s group who showed compassion, dedication and character for 49 games straight.

I owe my softball teammates a huge thank you for making this season so special, and for the memories I will have for a lifetime.

The second major thought I had from my reflection may come across as cheesy, but I think everyone who has compassion for something in his or her life can relate. I never thought the day would come when the one thing that has shaped the person I am today would be gone.

So quickly taken away from me was what I’ve known for nearly my entire life, and the one thing I’ve spent thousands of endless hours trying to perfect.

To some it’s just another sport, but softball has been a huge part of me and molded who I am throughout the years I’ve played. It’s taught me valuable skills I will use off the field, such as leadership, work ethic, mental toughness, perseverance and loyalty.

Softball is more than just a sport to me. It’s been one big lesson, test and challenge that keeps me focused and on the right path.

I am very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to play this game for so long and committed myself for so many years. Now I’ve hung up my cleats, and my years as a Wildcat are over, but what I’ve gained from this amazing sport will stay with me for a lifetime.