When I heard of the Senior Farewell, I always dreaded writing my own. There is something about writing about myself that does not feel right or natural. With that being said, I decided to make the majority of mine a note of appreciation to those who have helped me get to this point in life.
Coming from Illinois, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. The transition from Chicagoland suburbs to small town Martin was not without adjustment. However, the thing that assisted in making new lifelong friends was the thing that brought me to Martin in the first place, a love of sports.
On my first day of college I decided to wear my newly acquired Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell Trubisky jersey. I knew that if someone noticed and were to poke some fun at the jersey, I’d most likely have a friend for life. Well, that’s exactly what happened.
Former Pacer staff member and UT Martin alumnus Connor Butts, who also happens to be a Chicago Bears fan, didn’t hesitate to ask about the Trubisky jersey and from that point on he was my closest friend on campus. From the first day of college, to his graduation in December, Connor and I pushed each other to be better people, students and journalists and for that I am forever grateful.
In the Spring of 2024, we were told to come meet a new student who changed majors and had similar interests in becoming sports journalists. This was the first time I met Chyler Lee. From the first time I met Chyler, I knew he had a true passion for sports and media. Getting to witness Chyler grow into the excellent Editor-in-Chief he is today has truly been a privilege. His motor and high expectations is something I will forever admire and be thankful for.
In the Fall of 2024, Connor mentioned having a roommate who aspired to be in sports media and Connor wanted to recruit him to The Pacer staff. This was the arrival of William Stevens, The Pacer’s honorary court jester and the funniest person I have ever met. Will’s sense of humor has taught me to lighten up more. Even the most stressful of situations need some laughter, and Will never fails to provide a reason for it. For that, I am beyond grateful.
Finally, the great Tomi McCutchen. I could have written this entire farewell about this woman. Words can never express the amount of gratitude and appreciation I have for all Ms. Tomi has done for me. I would not be graduating in May without the support she has given me. I would not have ever gotten involved or worked with The Pacer if Ms. Tomi did not twist my arm (jokingly) until I joined. With all of my heart and a tear in my eye, thank you.
For the final time as The Pacer’s sports editor, goodbye and thank you for four years I’ll never forget.
