31 May 2015
Ok story time. . . years ago we had a goalkeeper named
Amanda Scott. Many of you know her father, Mr. Bob Scott who is such a key part
of home games—working in the press box, announcing, playing music
and singing the National Anthem.
His daughter Amanda had a fine career at Aquinas and
graduated in 2004. She went on to get a Ph.D. in Physical Therapy and is
now married with kids of her own.
Her senior year she taught us all a great lesson, and from
time to time we like to honor her legacy by recognizing a current player
whose contributions to the program mirror those of Amanda’s.
Back to the story—during her senior year Amanda began the
year as a starter but after a red card forced her out of a game in St.
Louis, she was replaced by a freshman GK named Hannah Koesterer—Hannah
remained the starting keeper and Amanda the back-up (as well as Hannah’s
mentor and friend) for the rest of the season.
In the spirit of that tribute the Koesterer family came
forward to introduce this award as a legacy to Aquinas Girls Soccer and
Amanda in 2004.
Every once in awhile you have a player come along whose contribution is not measured in goals or assists or even shutouts but rather in
an attitude that says everyday and in everyway TEAM FIRST.
We all begin things because we want to be successful. If
success does notcome, we usually move on to other things or in some cases we
stick it out making ourselves and others around us miserable. . . but in
very rare cases the exceptional person not only sticks with it but also works
to find a way to contribute—positively, selflessly and to the betterment of
those around her.
Years will come and go and some may forget Amanda, but all Aquinas teams will recognize the importance of an attitude that says TEAM FIRST.
This award has been given twice before—Miss Kathy Skevington
was the first recipient in 2004 and Miss Carrie Pennewell the second in
2007.
This year we would like to award Miss Jessica Pasley the
Amanda Scott TEAM FIRST award.
Jess, we honor you for your tireless work and selfless
contribution to the team. Because of you, we were a better team and most
importantly we're better people.
Congratulations!
*(Recap and explanation of the award, Chuck Hammons)
The award could NOT go to a classier young lady. My daughter was lucky enough to play with Jessica in 1 season of club 6 years ago. Jessica has been an incredibly positive teammate that builds team unity and seriously enhances the contagious, fun, winning attitude that is the secret sauce of so many winning teams. Best wishes at MIZZOU :) Kevin Perz :)
ReplyDeleteJess, Congratulations!! Your drive and determination are admirable. You have the heart and soul "attitude" of all athletes. Your perpetual smile reaches out to all your teammates and fans. We love you. Nadine
ReplyDeleteJess, we've known you since you were barely big enough to kick a soccer ball to Joe! You have always been a joy to be around, but there is so much more to you than great hair and a pretty smile. You have strength, wit, wisdom, and an outstanding attitude that far exceeds your years. Thanks for your many contributions to the team, this award couldn't be more deserved. Aquinas was so lucky to have you, and Mizzou is as well. Love you! ~ the Meyers family
ReplyDeleteJess, Congratulations! I couldn't agree more that you exude the TEAM FIRST attitude and spirit. You always have a smile on your face and, at times, I am sure that wasn't easy for you. This group of 8 seniors has been so fun to watch as you all care about one another and have fun together on and off the field. Your positive attitude and encouraging words helped inspire all the other players on the team to contribute in a positive manner. The Saints were a better team because of you. I am sure your parents are so very proud, as they should be. You captured the essence of the team in your Senior Dinner poem - you did such a fantastic job! Congratulations again and best wishes as you start this next phase of your life. I am sure you will do great things. Love - the Kutey Family
ReplyDeleteThank you all so much for your kind words. I am blown away, and it honestly means the world to me. Aquinas soccer definitely has the best parents without a doubt! I am so thankful that I spent my time at Aquinas as a soccer girl. Thank you all for the time and effort you have put into the program to make it so extraordinary for all of us girls. Love you guys!!!:)
ReplyDeleteJessie - Congrats on the award! Even BIGGER congrats on becoming a MIZZOU Tiger. Always knew you had great taste!! Looking forward to hearing about college and all the great things to come. Great job! Love The Holmes Family
ReplyDelete