I continued to dreamed of playing basketball on the grand stage. Whether that was at Arrowhead, or in the Final Four, basketball is what I live for. Getting there consisted of hardships struggles. Succeeding in basketball is like succeeding in life: the pathway is not always straight and there are problems and roadblocks  you have to face. Whether I am on the court or on the streets of life, no one has given be better advice than Coach Haase.

Since I was young, I have always looked up to the players and coaches of Arrowhead basketball. Going to camps week after week always got me excited to play on Friday nights in front of classmates, family, and friends. No one talked up the feelings better than Coach Haase. From the moment he walked into the gym, the energy of all campers and coaches picked up. And one thing I always noticed was his State championship ring. In 6th grade after Arrowhead won State I made it a goal of mine to win a State championship when I left high school.

As middle school finished and high school started, my dream finally was coming true. Making JV as a freshman was a big accomplishment, but I was always wanted to strive for more success. I remember the meeting with Coach Haase and him telling me that I needed to be special. He said, “you have all of the potential in the world and needed me to be a leader and work hard.” I took that to heart and continued to work every day to better my team and myself.

Now, going into my senior year, I never want to waste a day of practice because my time is limited. I will take Coach Haase’s advice and be as special as I can be not only in basketball, but also in life.

Coach Haase taught me many things that have influenced my life. He taught me not only to persevere through mental and physical challenges in basketball, but also outside the lines and cheers of basketball. He has made me a better person and is only setting me up for success when I need it most. I thank him every day and will continue to thank him for the success he has set me up with. When I need someone most, I can always talk to Coach Haase. He will always be there and continue to give me advice when I need it most.