Senior Recognition (for details see the Senior Recognition page)

We live in a time when some people claim there are no more heroes. They even say that while we celebrate Memorial Day to remember the heroes of the past - we can look forward to no more heroes in the future. Well, to them I say: You haven't met our PTBLA Seniors of 2007!

Because, even as you lay the foundations of great careers and great lives, I want you to know that you are already heroes to me. I believe in you. And I believe in your generation.

You've overcome obstacle after obstacle; not only tough competition, tough coaches, but long hours, family responsibilities. And what was the result of all your sacrifice and hard work? Every one of you got into a college of your choice. So, you are not just survivors - you are champions. If you were a movie, you'd sell more tickets than Spiderman.

But you're not a movie - you're something much more important: You're the future of this nation and the world. And through your own heart and guts, you've filled that future with hope, passion and promise. You've earned our praise - and our appreciation.

So, every member of the PTBLA program will stand and absorb the recognition.

You will be all you want to be - and I've already given you one reason why: The hero that lives in each of you. But there is a second reason - and that is, all of the heroes around you.

First of all, your families who have encouraged, and always loved you. Let's thank them for their support and their endless patience. Second, Head Coach, JD Wilson and our staff, Gabe Verga, Jason Federer, Jarrott Brogdon, Chris Tracey, Mike McBride and Matt Volzer, who got into your life - and made a commitment of love and dedication to you. They are the spirit, the backbone, and the guiding light for what you have accomplished.

Now it's your turn to keep an eye on a hero. People who will inspire you to take on the great challenges of the century - your century. Because it is your turn to lead.

As future leaders, you must ask yourselves, will you provide the examples for young ones that will be looking up to you?  Will you protect our country, its people and their rights? Start to believe that you are more than a great lacrosse player; you are a leader, an American leader.

It is your destiny to continue your education, go beyond your chosen field to learn as much as you can about every area of the human experience - from literature to art, from science to history. I pray that you will live balanced lives of work, fun and spiritual renewal.

You will arrive as you set an example for others and lead. Don’t miss the opportunity to be the most important kind of hero of all - a hero to someone else.

Take your experiences in sports and community service and pass them on to young people who are still trying to reach the first step on the ladder of opportunity:

• Be role models of hard work and outstanding character.
• Be exemplary members of your community by voting; getting involved in your community; mentoring and tutoring.
• Be advocates for staying in school, studying, respecting other people, and living healthy active lives.
• Be courageous in your actions; generous in your support of others; and tolerant of different views.

Be heroes because it is right, and because your families, your community and your country are depending on you.

Thirty four years ago, I stood in your shoes. I didn't know where life would lead me, but I promised myself when I saw an opportunity I would take it.

Gather yourself, set-up your play and execute it. Dedicate your life to being a hero to others, just as you are already a hero to me.  

Eugene Mauro