I want to thank Rivals.com and Justin Hokanson for posting this on their site as a free post. Which means it is open to everyone to read.
Dear Auburn Family,
In August, I told myself that when this season and my time
here at Auburn came to a close, I would write an open letter the Auburn Family
to simply say "thank you!" After last night I found myself having
trouble putting into words the gratitude I was longing to convey. This
University will forever have a place in my heart, and the city of Auburn will
forever be a home to me.
In 2009, I came to college as a 17-year-old kid from
Arlington, Texas. Now, in 2014, I am leaving as a 22-year-old Auburn man. I
wish I could list every person that helped make this the most memorable time of
my life. However, that list is far too long. I would like to thank Jay Jacobs
for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this family. Everyone in the support
staff in the athletic complex from compliance, equipment, trainers and media
relations, to the academic staff that never once let me lose sight of what was
most important- leaving Auburn University with my degree in hand. Auburn FCA,
who helped me grow spiritually and constantly pushed me towards Christ. Brother
Chette Williams, you will forever be a mentor for me. You played an
instrumental role in the decision to rededicate my life to Christ and be
baptized two years ago.
To all of my coaches throughout my time here, I thank you.
My two strength coaches taught me the true meaning of work hard work, and that
is something I will carry forever and no one will every be able to take it from
me. Coach Rodney Garner, you instilled in me accountability and consistency. I
cannot thank you enough for bringing me so far in just a year's time. Coach Gus
Malzhan, you gave my fellow seniors and me the opportunity to be leaders among
men. I speak on behalf of all of my brothers that wore the AU helmet for the
last time yesterday when I say "thank you."
Soon enough, I will look back and reflect on our
accomplishments, but today, I am choosing to live in the moment. This is the
last time my brothers and I will get to spend a day with each other for
tomorrow we will go our separate ways and pass the torch to the next group of
seniors that will lead and fight for the greater good of The Family. From
tragedy to triumph, I could not ask for a better group of men to ride off into
the sunset with.
From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank every one of my
teammates, past and present. Nothing will ever break the bond I have with every
single one of my brothers I had the pleasure of going to war with.
And in closing, to the greatest fans in America, "thank
you!" I appreciate you. Through the ups, downs and times that seemed much
like a roller coaster, you all stayed true. That is why Auburn is different.
That is why we're family! I cannot thank you enough for that.
War Eagle! God bless you all! Nosa Eguae #94 c/o 2013
Why pride? When the only reason you have anything good is
because the King humbled Himself and died for you." -Louie Giglio
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