Coming on here again for my dad (who wasn’t interested in Tennessee baseball until this season) who wanted to say: “Sports can be cruel at times. This doesn’t take anything away from the season itself. The players were brothers, gave us exciting moments, and had so much fun. Today’s game will be a learning experience that will motivate the players and coaches even more. These players are great young men. I thank all of them.”
I have an one additional thought to add: As we headed toward postseason, I learned to cherish and appreciate every game we had left and not to look ahead. Because one never knows what happens next. As disappointed as I am that our season ends today, I’m not surprised that it ended (even though I had a good feeling ahead of the game). Time with his team was finite, whether it was today or during the next two weeks. I prepared myself for this. Most of all, I’m sad for our players, coaches, and their families who put their hearts and soul into this.
To put into perspective: Who would’ve even thought Tennessee baseball would be HERE before five years ago? It’s been a whirlwind five years. Coach V, his staff, and these players have established a culture and firm foundation. As much as it hurts now, the future is bright. As Coach V said last season, “Tennessee baseball is no longer coming, it’s here, and it ain’t going anywhere.”