December 23rd, 2015 | Uncategorized
One of the perks of flying in and out of JFK Airport is that Brooklyn Heights, where my alma-mater, St. Francis College is located, is only a subway ride away! Naturally, since I was coming home to Connecticut to see my family, it was only right to also stop by and see my basketball family as well.
Attempting to be sneaky, I decided not to tell anyone about my visit, creating the perfect set up for a great surprise! With great success, I not only was able to surprise all my teammates at their dorms, but also my coaches, by showing up to their practice fully dressed in the practice uniform, ready to play. As soon as my head coach, Coach T, called the team in to half court to begin practice, I came running onto the floor apologizing for being late. The look on my coaches’ faces when they realized it was me was absolutely priceless! Definitely a successful surprise if I do say so myself.
After the practice, I got to catch up with Coach T over brunch. Over the past four years, Coach T has not only been my coach, but also my mentor, and someone who I could always go to for advice or just a great conversation. Although I always knew this, the brunch solidified the fact that even though I no longer play for him, he will forever be my coach, but more importantly, someone that I can always talk to!
Being back at St. Francis was great; don’t get me wrong, it was weird not being out on the floor practicing, but the memories that came rushing back from just stepping on the basketball court again were unreal. I not only got to reminisce with myself of all the great times, but I also had the opportunity to talk about my experience at St. Francis, as well as my year abroad with Sport Changes Life to the current team. It was so fulfilling and gratifying to talk about how basketball has shaped my life and opened so many doors of opportunity; especially my most recent opportunity of playing, coaching, and learning in Ireland.
Victory Scholar: Sarah Benedetti
Present University: University of Limerick
US League: NEC
Club/Community Partner: UL Huskies
Alma Mater: St. Francis College
Sponsored by: Teamwear Ireland
