December 19th, 2015 | Uncategorized
Today was my last day in Ireland before I head back home in the morning. It’s about 10:30pm right now and I just got back to my room from my UL Eagles game. It was a thrilling game that came down to the wire and luckily ended in our favor. My adrenaline is still pumping so I thought I would write a quick blog to talk about my last day.
Today was a special day because it capped off the 1st half of my Victory Scholar experience. I coached my 18u team this morning and I was very humbled when my players gave me a Christmas present at practice. The players have become like a family to me and it was very nice of them to think of me during this holiday season. My team manager for the Limerick Lakers and my coach for the UL Eagles also each gave me a Christmas gift today. The team manager has been my “Irish Mom” while I’ve been here and she is always giving me rides places and making sure I am doing well and looking after me. My UL Eagles coach has been amazing and has helped me adjust on and off the court. A couple weekends ago I stayed at his house with his family and he made me feel right at home. I couldn’t ask for a better manager and coach and they have no idea how grateful I am for them. I really felt the love today from the Limerick community as everyone I saw at the game wished me a Merry Christmas and a safe flight home.
It is a bittersweet feeling knowing that I am headed home tomorrow. I am having such a great time here that I don’t want to leave but I am also excited to be home and see all of my friends and family. It is a special time of the year because it is Christmas but also because it is my oldest sister’s birthday! I can’t wait to give my family a big hug and spend the week with them.
I hope everyone has a great holiday season!
Victory Scholar: Staats Battle
Present University: University of Limerick
US League: ACC
Club/Community Partner: UL Eagles
Alma Mater: North Carolina State University
Sponsored by: Teamwear Ireland
