Tonight I went to see one of my volleyball kids play in her last home game. Next week I'll see some play their last high school games in sectionals/districts.

It's tough this year because I've become very close with some of these kids and their parents. On top of that, I have a bunch in college now, and they're all grown up. They're involved, successful, well-rounded people. I'm so proud of them.

The kid I went to see tonight told me the other day that I was wholly responsible for her success as an athlete. While I can't accept that as being entirely true, it means a lot to me that she would tell me that. It means that despite all of my normal in-season bitching and moaning about not meeting the goals I set for the team, individually I've had some kind of positive impact on their lives. That's what it's really all about, and I feel blessed that I have the opportunity.

So while this group of kids begins to slip from my hands and into the world, another one is right around the corner. I worry about whether or not I'll get good kids at tryouts, if I can fill all of the positions, etc. I guess in the end I don't need to worry about it, because after four years of coaching J.O. ball, every year has had its successes.

Good luck Caity, Katie, Megan, Rachel, Dana and Jackie! Seniors rule!