Some of you may have already heard but last week I was accepted to the After Degree Education Program at U of M. Not going to lie, I was a bit surprised considering my poor GPA and a terribly written essay. Since that was the only 2 criteria they based my score upon, the reason I got in was the references that I got from Mr Laffin, Scott Masterson, and Graham Bodnar. You 3 probably said something that got someone’s attention. A million “thanks” to each of you. With that being said, this has been a life changing event and now I have new goals to reach for.
I have always wanted to be a teacher. I applied to Kinesiology instead of Education at Lakehead because I wanted to know more about my field. The significance of sport in our society and the thinking process of high performance athletes were two areas that caught my interest. A one point I was able to assess, diagnose, and treat any injury except for the back and neck. Unfortunately, after graduation I didn’t get into the school one year teaching program and a call from Saint brought me to Winnipeg. Teaching would be put on hold for the time being and even more so when I became a manager at Boston Pizza. I really thought for a time that I wanted to be a General Manager and run my own store. I thought that it would have been cool to be 30 and running a business but once in a while someone says something to you and a light goes off in your head…that’s what happened to me.
I think that it was Eric that said something to me first about teaching because he is currently in the program (and had just finished his first year). Something went off in my head and so I talked to Graham who was entering in his first year of teaching. After gathering as much info from them, I decided that it was time to try again to be a teacher. With great support from Ballzout members, Mobb members, and parents, I started the process and knew that sometime I would have to chose which path to take: the one I was working towards for the past 2.35 years at Boston Pizza or the one I originally set out to do. I didn’t get to chose but I did take the hint when Boston Pizza fired me from my management position. “The Lord works in mysterious ways” is what I always say (and I’m sure that other people say it too).
So I just wanted to give a few shout outs and thanks to everyone along the way. I probably won't get everyone I want on here but here's a few. In no particular order…..
-Jackie, Mike, Tyler, Adam – Thanks for the encouraging words. We need to plan a reunion sometime (or someone needs to get married haha)
-Mobb Members – love playing with you guys. I’ve gotten to know both Mike and Adam better this year and thanks to the both of them for including me in their circle of friends. More good times ahead of us both on and off the court.
Mr Laffin – you have always been my inspiration to coach and teach. Before our first tournament you told me to “lead this team. Have them feed off your energy” and I’ve tried to do that ever since. Roy Williams has Dean Smith to credit his success. I have you to credit mine. Thank you.
Judd – we’ve both have some tough times lately but we just keep helping each other get through it. Looking forward to having you in Winnipeg next year.
Ant – always telling it to me straight even if I didn’t want to hear it
Bob – always that calm guy that never seems worried about anything. No matter how old we get, you still get big blocks!
Dela and Moni – I can’t say enough thanks for everything you guys have done for me (especially over the past little while). As proud as you guys are of Kenston, I’m sure that Keston is just as proud of you guys.
Eric – probably the most brilliant mind in basketball I’ve ever met. You’ve always been there to help put things in perspective and encourage me. Looking forward to lunches next year at the school.
Graham – you always know what to say. You help me to believe in myself because you believe in me.
Saint – always there when I need you. I’ve played with some great players in my time but you are the only one that puts a sour look on my face after I watch you break down someone.
Shane and Eva – I’m glad that we are starting to see each other more than just once a year. Our times together are always so short but always special. Kya is just amazing
Mom and Dad – you guys were so happy to hear that I was going to do this. I’ve always felt that you guys wanted something better for me than Boston Pizza you guys were right. What can I say? Thanks and I love you guys.
So now it begins. Two years of hard work ahead of me. Time to walk the walk. Thanks to all my friends and family. I will always be there for you like you have been for me.
I will leave you with a quote that I heard from CBS announcer Clark Kelloge: "you need sunlight and rain to grow. Not just in plants but in people as well." Thanks for believing.
Peace and Much Love,
Mitch
