I can’t predict when I’ll have a day like that, but the closest I regularly come to that feeling is graduation and the Academic Bowl. Graduation because you’ve seen where they were and know what they have accomplished. The AB is similar -- feelings of pride for them and a sense of belonging for me. To have people look forward to seeing you is a great feeling. And the fact that a coach will flash my lights at 2am to discuss a challenge to a second round question from a match 10 hours prior means they are holding it just as tightly as I am.
Judges were incorrect, but that’s neither here nor there.
This year we went to the Model Secondary School for the Deaf in Washington, DC. I think I’ve been to seven schools and have experienced beautiful campuses, wonderful hospitality, and friendly, warm people.
Here’s my favorite picture from MSSD.