Leigh Ann

As a preface, someone said they liked what I wrote about them, and that they appreciated it, so I will continue.  I should say that these are my memories.  Everyone has their own and I'm sure that the players know each other 100 times better than I do, but I will continue with some of my thoughts.  


I don't have any really funny stories about Leigh-Ann.  As a goalkeeper she has a special place in my heart, because goal keeper is the position I understand the best.  I always would root for the goalkeepers. 

My favorite part of practice was also always the parts involving the goalkeepers.  It was always fun being around whatever stuff they were doing.  I greatly enjoyed after practice as well with those who would take extra shots, but in practice, keeper land was where one wanted to be.  

Now, since Leigh-Ann will be the only keeper I know from now on, I will only be rooting for her.  The other keepers I hope get scored upon in practice since I have no connection to them. 

The first thing I think of when I think of Leigh-Ann is smart from her studies.  My first semester traveling I went to study hall every once in a while and I would see Leigh-Ann constantly studying.   I think of her as someone who works hard on her studies and is making something of herself.  I know she sacrifices a lot to play.  She doesn't even live on campus. 

I have so much respect for her because she would drive from home to get to campus.  She had to get up extra early for morning lift.  I would always run into her on the way in on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  

I can't tell you how Leigh-Ann has improved, I just know she has.  I can't describe it, I just know she has since I have watched goalkeepers so much. 

I guess maybe it's her confidence and she has definitely gotten better with her kicks. 

I think it is really cool that she got to be a part of the Jamaican National Team Program and I hope she continues with them if she can.  It has to be such an honor to represent ones country.

One of my happiest moments this spring was when Leigh-Ann passed the fitness test.  I am a big believer in athletics teaching you to push yourself to reach goals that you didn't think were possible.  That is why I think athletics can be educational.  I was so happy that Leigh-Ann ran her fastest mile of her life in the spring.  That is something to really be proud of.

Leigh-Ann also made my day one day by saying that I had the natural instincts of a goalkeeper.  That was such a complement.  Gurnon said the same thing to me a couple years back.  Maybe after a better look she will want to take those words back, but I think that I have the instincts minus the abilities. 

Leigh-Ann would give me pointers on how to be a good keeper as well.  You need to come off the line on high shots was the most useful advice she gave me. 

Leigh-Ann can achieve whatever she wants because she is willing to work for it.  She is a great person, who I will miss.