To all graduating seniors of NCATA Acrobatics & Tumbling programs:
 
2020 has not been the senior year you always dreamed about.
 
Uncertainty, disruption, loss. Not the words you expect to frame your transition from student to graduate. There is no way to recover how this moment in time has been changed. 
 
But much remains unchanged.
 
Daring, faithful, bold. Let these words frame your experience as a young woman who dreamed about doing more. Let these words remind you of the courage you showed when you chose to be part of something new. Let these words empower you on the next path in your life’s journey.
 
Choosing to become a student-athlete has changed your life. You have accessed education and engaged in the rigorous pursuit of a degree. You have challenged yourself in training and competed fiercely on the mat. You have forged bonds with teammates and cultivated friendships with people you otherwise would not have met.
 
But there is more. Choosing to become a student-athlete on an Acrobatics & Tumbling team means you will always be part of something more. 
 
Just over ten years ago, there was no Acrobatics & Tumbling. There was a dream of a new path, something more for female student-athletes in the collegiate landscape.  Coaches, administrators, student-athletes worked together to move beyond what others considered to be possible. Step by step, their dreams have become our reality.
 
Each woman who chooses to participate in Acrobatics & Tumbling demonstrates her belief in that dream. She joins a sisterhood for life. You are forever bonded to all those who have competed in, and most importantly those who will compete, in the sport. 
 
Stay in touch.  Advocate.  Relive those road trips with your teammates.  Share your story with others who may benefit from joining a team.  Try your hand at watching some meets from the stands.  Give back what you can to the sport. 
 
You entered as an original, you are exiting this sport as an original.  You are well prepared to meet the unique challenge of the day.  No matter what lies ahead, let the commitment and courage you’ve shown fill you with confidence. Keep daring. Stay faithful. And always, always, be bold.
 
You’ve changed this world. We can’t wait to see what you dream up next.
 
Congratulations!
 
Janell Cook
Executive Director