To the BBN,

It’s been a crazy couple of weeks and I really wanted to give myself time to find the right words to say. I wanted to start by thanking the University of Kentucky and Coach Mitchell for giving me an opportunity. A chance for a small town county kid, like me.As many of you know, I bleed blue. As a Kentucky kid, there really is nothing better than playing for my home state and wearing the blue and white.

What some of you don’t know, is when I arrived here 3 years ago I really had no idea what to expect. I had just transferred from the university of Cincinatti and struggled severely with anxiety and depression. I was at such a low point in my life, I couldn’t imagine going anywhere but home.. to you guys. I joined the team as a walk on.

3 years later I have grown into the person I am today. I’v learned to cope and find out who I am. From a walk on, to a starter for my dream school. In a time where the program was seemingly in a tough time, my loyalty was to you, an easy choice I’v made since I was nearly 6.It doesn’t matter where you live, or where you come from, or what you don’t have. All you need to have is faith in God, and a mindset to be successful in whatever you aspire. Dream big. If I only inspired one little girl or boy to do the same, it will have all been worth it.

I decided that I would not use my 5th year (Redshirt Senior Year)  at the university of Kentucky due to the lack of being able to further my education for my future career here. I have always been apart of the BBN and I ALWAYS will be. You guys are my favorite. I got some comments along the lines of “you were there for us” but really, I don’t see it as that way. I don’t see it any other way then you guys were there for ME in a time of need. With arms wide open. You Loved on me, and for that I am forever thankful.

My heart is full when I graduate in May with my degree and say goodbye, but I know I will forever be a Wildcat. Thank you for all your encouraging words thus far. Till ‘the battle is won.

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💙

Romans 8:28Sincerely, Makenzie.