Despite the obstacles, though, I have found immense success at Nebraska, particularly during this current campaign. Becoming a Big Ten champion with my teammates was undoubtedly a highlight of my college career. It was a validation of the hard work and dedication we had put into building a strong program. But this achievement does not mark the end — rather, it fuels our desire to continue striving for greatness.

Of the millions who served in World War II, I understand I'm one of a little over 100,000 Americans who are still alive. I'm proud to have served my country, but my wartime experience isn't something I talk about frequently. Truth be told, at 100 years old, the reason I'm still here and survived my time in WW2 comes down to one word. Luck.

Well, I tried. Sometimes, when you're competing at the highest level against some of the best athletes in the world, you can do your best and still come up short. That's exactly what happened on qualification day at the 2023 World Gymnastics Championships in Belgium.

I came to Nebraska to pitch and play baseball, but I also know I have a bigger responsibility than controlling my pitches and striking batters out. I have the ability – not to mention the platform – to make a difference and impact as many kids' lives as I can.

As game time approached and we watched the fans fill the stands we couldn’t help but realize something truly special was happening. 92,003 people. I still pinch myself.

Yet, the most cherished memory is that baseball was the last sport we played together. In that final game, I was the catcher as he pitched. It's a memory etched in my heart forever.

Nothing excites me more than leading a group of young athletes to believe in themselves and accomplish their goals through the course of the season and the forthcoming years.

I was beyond grateful to continue my head coaching career in Lincoln. 

My time in college has taught me many things, but above all else, it's presented me with opportunities and experiences to grow both on and off the court.

As a freshman, my world revolved around that crossbar. It took regression and failure for me to see that I'm not defined by the marks I set out to achieve.

At 46, my family is my entire motivation as I continue playing professionally to regain my PGA card and compete against the best golfers in the world.

Being an athletic trainer is my calling, and it's been the pleasure of my life to work with so many different wrestlers through the years that have entrusted me with their care.