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My Life As A Shamrock
My life as a Shamrock has been full of surprises. From the morning I sang the school song in front of the entire freshman class, to the second I received my diploma, I have been eternally grateful to this institution. The friends I have made are friends that are true and genuine. The teachers I have learned from are not considered enemies but friends. The coaches have given me lessons that I can apply to not only a playing field but also life. I am so glad that I made the decision to come to Saint Patrick from my neighborhood of Edison Park because I whole-heartedly believe that no other school could have shaped my future any better than Saint Patrick.
Saint Patrick has given me an opportunity to become diverse in life. While I have been here, I have undergone many life-changing incidents. Before coming to Saint Patrick, I was an average student with exceptional football abilities. During my freshman year, I was elected captain of the football team. It was during the last game of the season that I suffered a severe spinal injury forcing me to end my football career. That caused me to really take a look at who I was as a person and look at what I could do to rebound from that injury. I was already playing baseball, and I didn't feel like playing just one sport. I investigated, and I thought I'd try diving. Three years later, I set new records for diving, and I earned a trip to the AAU National Competition.
Friends have made a lasting impact on my life and on my time here at St. Pat's. I have made great friendships not only through sports but just by giving any person I met the time of day to really show me who they were. I feel that there aren't 900 plus young men walking around this school. I feel that there are 900 plus brothers walking around this school because everyone here contributes to the Shamrock Family. When our family lost a big member last year, the school was devastated. Dan Noble was a great friend of mine and a great friend to anyone who knew him. When I was selected to be a pallbearer, I realized just how special the bond that we make through school is. I will never forget Dan, and I will never forget how the Saint Patrick Family came together to support the Noble family.
The school pride that we have at St. Pat's is unlike any other. It's not uncommon to see Shamrocks with painted faces and bodies in the stands. I'm glad to say that I have been "that guy" and take it one step further. When Michael Wright finished 2nd in State in 2006, I was painted head to toe in green and gold. The only piece of clothing I had on was the green Speedo I wore during season. Upon my 18th birthday, I told my mom that I was going to get a tattoo. When she gave me the lecture that it was forever, and I may not like it one day, I had a simple response. "Mom, I'm going to get a shamrock." She understood immediately. Even though I am not Irish, I chose to get something that showed who I am and who I will always be. I chose a shamrock.
I cannot express more gratitude to Saint Patrick. Because of this school I truly believe I am the best young man I can possibly be. I know that soon I will be able to help young men, and hopefully, one day my son will attend Saint Patrick High School.
Sincerely, Kevin Nitsche '07
